Syaahi Kalamkari Hand Painted Pure Silk Creamy Beige Saree

What are the circles painted on the body?

Large painted roundels run down the body, each a circle of fine figure work in red, blue, black and gold, set on the plain cream ground. Because the ground stays open between them, the roundels read clearly from across a room, and the light base keeps the overall look soft.

What does the pallu show?

The pallu is a full painted figure scene on a pink ground, framed by wide green borders with a gold shimmer. It is the busiest part of the saree, so when you drape it, let the pallu fall open at the back or over the arm where the scene can be seen.

Is the blouse piece included?

Yes. The blouse comes attached to the saree, in the same pure silk, and your tailor cuts it off before stitching. The saree itself measures 6.4 to 6.5 metres in length and 45 to 46 inches in width, so you have a full drape after the blouse is separated.

Which blouse colours suit the beige and green?

The green border is the strongest colour on the saree, so a green or a deep pink blouse ties the drape together neatly. A plain antique-gold blouse also works, and leans the look more festive. Keep the blouse simple: the roundels and the pink pallu already carry plenty of detail.

How should I store a hand-painted silk saree?

Dry clean only. Keep it folded in its own cloth bag in a dry place, away from damp walls. Refold it along different lines every few months so the painted areas do not crease in the same place, give it some fresh, dry air now and then, and if it ever needs airing out, do it in the shade.

Where would this saree look right?

Festivals suit it best, since the painted figures carry a traditional, devotional feel and the colours read rich without being loud. It is equally at home at a puja or temple visit, a kitty lunch or an office celebration, and with light jewellery it can go to work on a dressed-up day.