Noor-e-Banaras Lichi Silk Rich Green Brocade Suit (T+B+D)

What shade of green is it?

A full, saturated emerald green rather than a pastel or olive, with the lichi sheen adding glow. Screens vary, so the shade on screen is close but not exact. Gold and kundan jewellery suit this depth of colour well.

Is it ready to wear, or will I need a tailor?

You'll need a tailor. The set is sold as unstitched fabric: a top piece, a bottom piece and a dupatta. Unstitched means you choose the fit and style, a straight kurta or something with more flare, rather than adjusting a ready-made size that may not suit you.

Will the coloured motifs clash with my jewellery?

Not if you pick a lead. Gold jewellery ties in with the zari border and the tiny gold dots and is the easiest choice. If you'd like colour, borrow red or pink from the floral and peacock panel for your earrings or bangles. Avoid stones in several colours, which compete with the border.

What is the border like?

The border is gold zari carrying a floral and peacock panel in red and pink, which stands out against the emerald green. The rest of the fabric is kept simple, with sparse tiny gold dots, so the border does most of the talking.

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 smart; a salwar feels more traditional.

Any tips I should pass on to my tailor?

Three things help with brocade. Ask for the seams to be overlocked or bound so the cut edges stay neat. 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.

How do I wash it?

Dry cleaning is preferred. If you hand-wash, use a mild detergent and a gentle touch, wash it separately from other clothes, don't wring or twist it, and dry it in the shade. Iron on low heat with a cloth between the iron and the silk to protect the sheen and the brocade.