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

Emerald is a jewel tone. Is it too dressy for a dinner?

Not at all. Jewel tones look rich but not loud, and emerald green with gold leaf buti suits an evening dinner beautifully in a straight cut with small studs. With gold jhumkas and the striped dupatta draped open, it looks fully festive.

Is the dupatta really striped?

Yes. The dupatta is woven in bold diagonal gold stripes across the base colour, with a narrow gold border along the edges. It makes a lively contrast with the kurta, which has gold leaf buti and a paisley hem band rather than stripes, and the diagonals create movement when it's draped.

How does lichi silk fall once stitched?

Lichi silk has a smooth texture and a lustrous finish and drapes beautifully, so it falls cleanly in straight and A-line kurtas. The woven gold leaf buti and paisley hem look best on a simple cut. For a softer, more fluid fall, ask your tailor for a lightweight crepe lining.

How long is the dupatta, and how can I drape it?

The dupatta measures 2.4 to 2.5 metres, enough for most drapes. For a simple look, fold it lengthwise and pin it on one shoulder. For a dressier look, take it across both shoulders with the ends falling behind, or over one arm. A small safety pin on the inside keeps it in place on silk.

Is the top piece long enough for a kurta with sleeves?

The top piece measures 2.5 to 3.0 metres. Most tailors can cut a straight or A-line kurta with sleeves from that for most sizes. A very long or heavily flared anarkali usually needs more, so lay the fabric out with your tailor and settle the cut before anything is cut.

How do I wash it?

Dry cleaning is preferred. If you hand-wash, use a mild detergent and a gentle touch, wash it separately from other clothes, don't wring or twist it, and dry it in the shade. Iron on low heat with a cloth between the iron and the silk to protect the sheen and the brocade.