Dark green is so deep. How do I keep it from looking heavy?
Lift it near the face. Gold or kundan earrings, a soft peach or pink lip and a lighter dupatta drape all brighten dark green. A three-quarter sleeve and a neckline with some shape help too. The brocade's sheen already adds movement, so you don't need heavy jewellery; one statement piece is plenty.
How should my tailor handle the hem border?
Ask for the woven border to stay at the kurta's hem and plan the length around it, rather than trimming it off. A straight or gently A-line cut lets the border sit flat across the front. If you need the kurta shorter, adjust from the shoulder end so the woven border stays whole.
What does Banarasi mean in the name?
Banarasi refers to the weaving tradition associated with Banaras, or Varanasi, known for rich silks and zari patterns. Lichi silk is one type of Banarasi silk, recognised for its smooth texture and lustrous finish. In the name, it describes the style and family of the weave.
Can my tailor make an anarkali from it?
It depends on the flare and your size. With 2.5 to 3.0 metres of top fabric, a gently flared or A-line kurta is usually comfortable, while a full-circle anarkali often needs more. Brocade also has a direction, so ask your tailor to plan the panels before cutting to keep the motifs upright.
Does brocade fray when it's cut?
It can. Brocade has extra threads woven in for the pattern, and cut edges loosen easily. Ask your tailor to overlock or tape the seams soon after cutting, leave a slightly wider seam allowance, and avoid unpicking seams again and again during fittings.
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, so check with your tailor before cutting. Straight pants also keep the focus on the gold motifs of the top.