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

Does it come stitched?

No. The set comes as unstitched fabric in three pieces: a top, or kurta, piece of 2.5 to 3.0 metres, a bottom piece of 2.4 to 2.5 metres and a dupatta of 2.4 to 2.5 metres. That lets your tailor cut it to your measurements, with the neckline, sleeve and length you prefer.

Does red suit fair skin?

Red flatters most skin tones. On fair skin it adds colour and contrast; on wheatish and dusky skin it looks warm and rich. If you're very fair, a matching red lip ties it together. Gold jewellery suits red on every skin tone and picks up the shine of the brocade.

What is the floral jaal like?

The dupatta carries a dense gold floral jaal, a connected trellis of flowers woven across it, so in places very little of the red shows through. It catches the light strongly and finishes in a wide gold band with tassel ends, which makes the dupatta the dressiest piece in the set.

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.

What style of bottom can I get from the bottom piece?

With 2.4 to 2.5 metres, most tailors can make straight pants, cigarette pants or a regular salwar for most sizes. A very full patiala or a wide palazzo may need more, so check with your tailor. Straight pants keep the look sleek for an evening dinner; a salwar feels more traditional.

Which kurta styles show off brocade well?

Straight, A-line and slightly flared kurtas with few seams show the most brocade. A high, round or boat neck keeps the front panel uninterrupted, and three-quarter or full sleeves frame it nicely. Heavy pleating or many panels chop up the woven pattern, so keep those for plainer fabrics.

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.