Katan Silk Lively Handcrafted Biege Suit (T+B+D)

What does the Lively suit look like?

It's a cream-beige set. The top fabric has fine rows of small motifs, and the dupatta has grey stripes along its border and bands near the fringed ends. The bottom is plain cream.

Is the dupatta wide enough to cover the head?

At 32 to 33 inches wide and 2.3 to 2.4 metres long, it can be draped over the head for a family function or a festive gathering, though it will sit closer to the face than a wide dupatta. Pin it lightly so the silk doesn't slip.

How versatile is it across occasions?

Quite versatile, because cream takes any accent. With small studs and straight pants it is an office set, and it stays easy for summer travel. With coloured jhumkas and a bright potli it goes to a dinner or a kitty party; with gold jewellery and the dupatta over both shoulders it works for a festive gathering.

How do I keep a cream set from looking plain?

Bring colour in through accessories: a bright potli, coloured jhumkas or a bold lip. Grey or silver picks up the dupatta stripes. Light fabric shows marks easily, so put on perfume and makeup before you dress.

Can Katan silk be hand washed?

Yes, after the first wash, which should ideally be a dry clean. From then on, wash it gently by hand with a mild detergent, keep it separate from other clothes and dry it in the shade, away from direct sun, to protect the colour and sheen.

Should I ask my tailor for a lining?

A thin cotton or cotton-silk lining is worth it for a silk kurta you'll wear for long hours. It feels softer on the skin, absorbs sweat and protects the woven pattern from strain at the seams. Check the opacity of the fabric against the light before deciding.