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

What does (T+B+D) in the name mean?

It stands for Top, Bottom and Dupatta, the three pieces in the set. All three come as unstitched fabric: 2.5 to 3.0 metres for the kurta, 2.4 to 2.5 metres for the bottom, and a dupatta of 2.4 to 2.5 metres. You'll need a tailor for the kurta and the bottom.

Which shawl colours go with red?

Red pairs with warm neutrals: ivory, cream, beige or gold-toned shawls look classic. Black is a bold option after dark. A mustard or green stole adds a traditional contrast. Flat grey tends to dull red, so choose warmer tones for winter layering over the brocade.

How busy is the body of the fabric?

Not very. Away from the teardrop border, the fabric has small gold leaf butis spaced well apart, so most of the surface shows the smooth red base. That keeps the look light, so the set can be styled simply for an evening dinner or dressed up for festive days.

What's the main motif?

Large gold teardrop motifs run along the gold zari border, with small gold leaf butis scattered across the rest of the fabric. It's all gold on the red base, with no other colours in the weave, so the look stays rich but uncluttered.

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 simple look, fold it lengthwise and pin it on one shoulder. For a dressier 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.

Does the kurta need a lining?

We'd recommend one. A lining makes the kurta more comfortable against the skin through a long evening and helps it fall well. A soft cotton lining is comfortable; crepe or satin gives a smoother fall. Pick a shade close to the red so it disappears under the brocade.