Earthloom Handdyed Khadi Cotton Saree Festive

What is the pattern on the Festive saree?

It is covered in dense, broad stripes of purple, teal and chartreuse, with flashes of red and navy in between. The stripes run through the body and carry on into the pallu, and red tassels finish the ends. It is a bold, colourful saree that needs very little else.

How can I wear such strong stripes to work?

Let the saree carry the colour and keep everything else simple. A plain navy, teal or purple blouse pulls one shade out of the stripes and looks sharp. Neat pleats and a pinned pallu keep the look tidy, and small studs or a single bangle are enough jewellery.

Are slight differences in the stripes normal?

Yes. The fabric is woven by hand from handspun khadi and then dyed by hand, so the width of a stripe or the depth of a colour can vary a little across the saree. These small irregularities are a sign of handwork.

How should I wash it?

Always wash this saree on its own, by hand, in a mild detergent, and dry it in the shade. Do not soak it or wring it hard; press the water out gently instead. Smooth the red tassels before drying so they stay neat.

How does the saree drape?

At 6.4 to 6.5 metres it gives a full drape with room for pleats and a good pallu. Because the stripes run across the fabric, they show as layers of colour on the pleats and open out again on the pallu over the shoulder.

What petticoat should I wear?

A dark petticoat in navy, purple or teal suits the deep stripes and keeps the drape looking even where the pleats open as you walk. Choose cotton so it stays breathable with the khadi, and pick a shade close to the colour that falls at your hem.