Noor-e-Banaras Lichi Silk Brocade Maroon Suit (T+B+D)

Is maroon a good choice for evening wear?

Yes. Maroon is deep and composed, so it looks rich at an evening dinner, especially with the wide gold peacock border on show. It is also a natural festive colour; add gold jhumkas and bangles for festive days, or pearls for a softer look.

What's the motif on the border?

Peacocks among florals in teal and pink, woven into a wide gold brocade panel. Against the maroon base with its small gold leaf butis, the border is the main feature of the set, so ask your tailor to keep it whole along the hem. Tasselled ends add a finishing touch.

How is brocade different from embroidery?

Embroidery is stitched onto finished fabric with a needle. Brocade is woven into the cloth itself, using extra threads that form the pattern as the fabric is made. So the design on the Noor-e-Banaras suit is part of the fabric, with a slightly raised feel, rather than sitting on top of it.

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. Ask your tailor to plan the panels before cutting so the motifs and the peacock border sit upright.

Will it look exactly like the photos?

Very close, with two caveats. Colours can look slightly different on different screens, and because this is a handcrafted product, small irregularities in the weave are part of its character rather than flaws. They make each piece slightly different and don't affect how it wears.

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.