Noor-e-Banaras Cotton Suit (T+B+D) Dark Green

What shade is this set?

It is a bright, fresh apple green. A honeycomb trellis covers the ground, dotted with yellow and red floral sprigs, and a cream floral vine border with a zig-zag edge finishes it. Touches of zari add a little shine, and the overall look is lively and light rather than deep.

What comes in the package?

Three unstitched pieces: fabric for the kurta, fabric for the bottom and a dupatta. The top fabric is 3.0 to 3.1 metres, and the bottom and dupatta are 2.4 to 2.5 metres each. Show them to your tailor before deciding on the cut.

Which colours pair with this green set?

A bright green looks lively with pink, magenta or orange accents, and with gold jewellery. White or gold juttis keep it fresh. For work, keep accessories small and neutral so the woven flowers lead.

Will the colours run?

To be safe, wash it separately, especially the first few times. Dry cleaning is preferred; if you hand wash, use cold water and a mild detergent, don't soak it for long, and dry it in the shade. Pressing the water out gently rather than wringing helps the weave keep its shape.

Is Banarasi cotton handwoven?

Yes. Banarasi cotton is a handwoven fabric, and the woven motifs are part of the cloth rather than printed on. Minor irregularities in the weave are part of handcrafted textiles and show the hand behind it.

Is the pattern printed or woven?

It's woven. Brocade weaving adds decorative patterns into the fabric with extra threads during weaving, so the motifs sit slightly raised and are part of the cloth. On this set the floral sprigs, the trellis and the vine border are all woven in, with zari detailing.

Will the kurta need a lining?

It's optional. A thin cotton lining protects the woven motifs from catching, gives a smoother fall and adds comfort against the skin. If the top fabric looks see-through when you hold it to the light, a lining is worth adding.