Noor-e-Banaras Brocade Silk Suit (T+B+D) Deep Red

Can I wash it at home?

Yes, gently, though dry cleaning is preferred. If you hand-wash, use a mild detergent, don't soak it, wash it on its own and dry it in the shade, out of direct sun. Don't wring or rub the woven gold buti and jaal.

What exactly do I get in the set?

Three unstitched pieces: the top, measuring 3.0 to 3.1 metres; the bottom, 2.4 to 2.5 metres; and the dupatta, 2.4 to 2.5 metres. Together they weigh about 500 gm. There's no ready-made garment, so plan a visit to your tailor well before you want to wear it.

With so much gold in the jaal, how much jewellery should I wear?

Less than you think. The floral jaal already brings plenty of shine, so small studs or slim jhumkas are usually enough. Skip a heavy necklace, which would sit on top of the pattern. A stack of thin bangles or a single statement ring adds finish without crowding.

Is the pattern woven in or printed?

Woven in. Brocade weaving builds the decorative pattern into the cloth on the loom, often with metallic threads, so the motifs are part of the fabric rather than printed on top. You can feel a slight raised texture over the gold buti and the floral jaal.

How long is the dupatta, and how can I drape it?

The dupatta measures 2.4 to 2.5 metres, enough for most drapes. For a dinner, fold it lengthwise and pin it on one shoulder. For a dressier festive look, take it across both shoulders with the ends falling behind, or over one arm. A small safety pin on the inside keeps it in place on silk.

Will it look exactly like the photos?

Very close, with two caveats. Colours can look slightly different on different screens, and because this is a handcrafted product, small irregularities in the weave are part of its character rather than flaws. They make each piece slightly different and don't affect how it wears.