Syaahi HandPainted Soft Silk Carmine Red Saree

What is in the frame on the pallu?

Painted elephants sit inside a heart-shaped frame on a mustard pallu panel, with an elephant and floral band near the pallu end. The crimson body is painted with large yellow-pink flowers and leaves, and a blue woven border runs along the edge, so colour carries from end to end.

What blouse colour pairs with it?

A blue blouse picks up the border for a bold contrast; a yellow blouse echoes the pallu. Gold jewellery suits it. If you prefer a contrast to the attached blouse piece, these shades are the easiest to source in plain silk. A plain cut lets the painted elephants stay the focus.

Does it come with a blouse piece?

Yes. A blouse piece comes attached to the saree. Ask your tailor to cut it off before draping and stitch it to your design. Because the painting is the focus, a simple, well-fitted blouse usually shows the saree off best.

Will mine look exactly like the photo?

Very close, but not identical. These are made to order and painted by hand, so motif placement, brushwork and the exact shade of the paints vary a little from piece to piece. Screens also show colour differently. That variation is what makes each saree individual.

How does soft silk drape?

Soft silk has a smooth texture and a gentle sheen, and it drapes beautifully. At 6.4 to 6.5 metres long and 45 to 46 inches wide, it gives you room for full pleats and a generous pallu, so the painted elephant panel can fall open over the shoulder.

Will the paint run or fade?

Treat it as dry clean only. Keep the saree away from water, perfume and damp storage, and if it ever gets damp, dry it in the shade. Storing it in its own bag and refolding it regularly keeps the painted areas from rubbing and creasing.