Syaahi Mangalagiri Silk Earthy Green Dupatta

What stands out on this Syaahi dupatta?

Its large multicolour flower clusters. Alongside a painted band of figures, it carries bold blooms in red, pink, yellow, purple and orange that give the dupatta a full, garden-like feel. A slim orange edge runs along one side, and the rest of the green ground stays open.

Is this Kalamkari?

It is hand painted on Mangalagiri silk, with figures and flowers that have a Kalamkari-style look. Each piece is painted by hand with brushes, so the lines have small irregularities that a print does not have, and these make each dupatta its own.

What can I pair it with?

The green ground sits best with plain kurtas in white, cream, mustard or soft pink, which let the flower clusters stand out. For a bolder look, try a deep maroon or rust kurta that echoes the warm tones in the blooms. Keep the rest of the outfit simple.

Will the colours run when I wash it?

Hand-painted pieces need a little care. Wash it separately in cool water with a mild detergent and handle it gently, especially the first few times. Don't soak it for long or wring it, and dry it flat or hung in the shade.

How should I drape it?

Wear it loosely across both shoulders with the painted side facing out, or let it fall from one shoulder so the flower clusters sit at the front. Keep the drape open rather than bunched, so the bold blooms and the open green ground both show.

What size is it?

It is 2 to 2.25 metres long and 35 to 36 inches wide, a standard dupatta size that works with suits, kurtas and anarkalis. There is enough length to pin it on one shoulder and still let the flower clusters fall to the front.