Pure Linen Artistic Black Dupatta & Black Ikkat Kurti Set

What does the set look like?

It is a black-on-black set. The kurti fabric is black with fine grey zigzag ikkat lines running across it, and the black dupatta carries silver dots, a silver band at the border and tassels at the ends. The whole look stays monochrome, with the silver adding a quiet shine.

What bottom suits a monochrome set?

A black or white bottom keeps it monochrome; grey works too. Silver jewellery suits the silver dots and border on the dupatta. Add a single coloured accent, such as a red bag or juttis, if you want a pop, and keep jewellery to oxidised or plain silver.

What is in the set?

Two pieces: unstitched kurta fabric in cotton ikkat, about 2.4 to 2.5 metres long and 44 inches wide, and a pure linen dupatta of about 2.3 to 2.4 metres by 32 to 33 inches. A bottom is not included, so you can pair it with something you already own.

Any tailoring tips for ikkat?

Ask your tailor to align the ikkat pattern at the front seams and centre the motifs on the body, so the rows run straight. Simple straight or A-line cuts show geometric ikkat best. Keep trims minimal; the pattern and the dupatta already carry the look.

How do I wash the set?

Hand wash gently with a mild detergent, wash the pieces separately and dry them in the shade. Do not wring the linen dupatta; press the water out instead and iron it while slightly damp. Linen softens a little more with each wash.

How is ikkat made?

Ikkat is a resist-dyeing technique. The yarns are tied and dyed before the fabric is woven, and the bindings can be changed and the yarns dyed again in another colour. The pattern is set into the threads before weaving, which is how the fine grey zigzags on this kurti fabric are formed.