Noor-e-Banaras Lichi Silk Brocade Weaving Teal Blue Suit (T+B+D)

Does teal blue suit warm skin tones?

Yes. Teal blue has enough depth to flatter warm and olive skin, and gold jewellery bridges the warmth of the skin and the coolness of the shade. On cooler skin it looks especially crisp with silver. Either way, a coral or rose lip adds lift near the face.

What's the main motif?

Large gold teardrop motifs run along the gold zari border, with small gold leaf butis scattered across the rest of the fabric. It's all gold on the teal base, with no other colours in the weave, so the look stays rich but uncluttered.

How does the dupatta finish at the ends?

With the gold zari border of large teardrop motifs, finished with tassels. The border is the dressiest part of the dupatta, so let it fall in front when you drape it over one shoulder, and pin it from the inside so the silk stays put.

How much fabric is in each piece?

Top: 2.5 to 3.0 metres. Bottom: 2.4 to 2.5 metres. Dupatta: 2.4 to 2.5 metres. The three pieces together weigh about 500 gm. Share these numbers with your tailor when you discuss the design, so the cut you choose fits the fabric you have.

Any tips I should pass on to my tailor?

Three things help with brocade. Overlock or bind the seams, because woven patterns can fray once cut. Plan the layout so motifs sit centred on the front and upright on the sleeves. And keep the design simple, with few darts and seams, so the woven pattern isn't broken up.

What style of bottom can I get from the bottom piece?

With 2.4 to 2.5 metres, most tailors can make straight pants, cigarette pants or a regular salwar for most sizes. A very full patiala or a wide palazzo may need more, so check with your tailor. Straight pants keep the look sleek for an evening dinner; a salwar feels more traditional for festive days.

Does the kurta need a lining?

We'd recommend one. A lining makes the kurta more comfortable against the skin through a long evening and helps it fall well. A soft cotton lining is comfortable; crepe or satin gives a smoother fall. Pick a shade close to the teal so it disappears under the brocade.