How is the yoke designed on the kurta?
It has a large tonal flower yoke in chikankari, worked white on white, with smaller buti scattered lower down the kurta. The bold flowers suit a contemporary cut. The dupatta is a plum and white tie-dye with a gold edge, which frames the white kurta with colour.
How do I give it a contemporary look?
Skip the churidar and pair it with straight trousers or cigarette pants in black or a deep plum that picks up the dupatta. A straight, slightly shorter cut with slit sleeves looks modern. Drape the dupatta loosely on one shoulder, add minimal jewellery and block heels.
Is a salwar or bottom part of the set?
No. The set is a kurta fabric and a dupatta only. A plain churidar, palazzo or cigarette pant works well, either matching the kurta or picking up the plum from the tie-dye dupatta. Keeping the bottom plain lets the chikankari and the dupatta carry the outfit.
How much fabric is there for the kurta?
The kurta length is about 2.9 to 3.0 metres, which gives your tailor room to plan the cut and the sleeves. Ask them to check it against your measurements and plan the cut around the embroidered yoke before cutting, so the flowers sit where you want them.
How should I care for it?
Dry cleaning is preferred, as it protects both the chanderi and the hand embroidery. If you do wash it, wash it on its own, gently, and dry it in the shade. Do not wring it, and iron on the reverse with a cloth between the iron and the chikankari.
What is chanderi silk like to wear?
Chanderi is a lightweight fabric with a fine, slightly sheer texture and a luxurious feel, named after the weaving town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh. It feels airy rather than heavy, which makes it comfortable for the office or a brunch, and delicate chikankari suits its light weave.