Noor-e-Banaras Lichi Silk Royal Blue Brocade 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.

Which metal looks better against royal blue, gold or silver?

Both work, but they say different things. Silver and white-stone jewellery keep royal blue crisp and cool, which suits a pared-back look. Gold warms it up and pulls out the richness of the brocade for a dressier setting. Whichever you pick, stick to one metal across earrings, bangles and the bag clasp so the strong blue stays the focus.

How do I balance a quiet kurta with such an ornate dupatta?

Let the dupatta do the talking. Keep the kurta's neckline simple, a round or V neck with thin gold piping, and skip a heavy necklace. Drape the dupatta so the end falls over one shoulder or across the front; that shows the peacock and floral motifs instead of hiding them at the back.

What's on the dupatta pallu?

The dupatta end is the showpiece: a wide cream-gold panel with peacock and magenta floral motifs, finished with a border of temple-edge peaks. The rest of the dupatta carries small gold dot butis on the cerulean base, like the kurta fabric.

Is the bottom fabric enough for palazzos?

The bottom piece is 2.4 to 2.5 metres. That usually covers straight pants or a slim palazzo for most sizes, but a very wide, flowing palazzo can need more. Silk holds some structure, so straight or slightly flared bottoms tend to sit better than very full ones.

Should I worry about minor irregularities?

No. Minor irregularities come with handcrafted products: a slight variation in the weave, or a thread that sits a little differently. The shade on your screen may also differ slightly from the fabric in daylight, since displays vary.