Fiery Kota Doria Cotton Bird Embroidery Red Saree Handdyed

How much embroidery does this design carry?

The embroidery is kept light: a few yellow birds on teal sprigs, spaced out across the ground. The yellow and teal make a lively contrast with the coral tone, but because the motifs are sparse, the saree still looks clean and simple. It is a good pick if you prefer understated work.

What is special about the edge?

The edges are scalloped and finished with a thin gold trim. The wavy line adds shape to the drape, and the touch of gold catches the light just enough to dress the saree up a little without making it heavy or formal.

What occasions does it suit?

Summer outings and travel come first: it is light, cool and easy to pack. It is equally at home on office days and at kitty parties and brunches, and with the gold trim and some jewellery it steps into festive gatherings comfortably.

Does the saree include a blouse piece?

It does: an 80 to 85 cm blouse piece comes with the 5.4 to 5.5 metre saree. Take it to your tailor for the cut you prefer. A teal or mustard contrast blouse, picking up the embroidery, is an alternative if you want more colour.

Will a hand-dyed saree like this bleed?

Some colour may come out in the early washes, which is common with hand dyeing. Wash it separately, by hand, in a mild detergent, and do not soak it. Dry it in the shade promptly, and keep it away from light-coloured clothes for the first few washes.

What should I wear underneath?

Kota Doria is sheer, so wear a petticoat in a matching coral-pink or a skin-toned shade. Avoid white or dark petticoats, which show clearly through the weave. A slim, well-fitted petticoat also keeps the pleats from looking bulky at the waist.