Silkmark Tussar Vivid Madhubani Red & Beige Saree

What does the Vivid Madhubani look like?

The beige body is printed all over with Madhubani-style figures, wheels and circular medallions in black and grey. The pallu is a plain contrast red, and a mustard border with a narrow worked edge runs along the length, adding a warm golden frame.

What blouse works with brick red and mustard?

The attached pallu-coloured blouse keeps it coordinated. For contrast, a mustard blouse picks up the border, while bottle green or navy balances the warmth of the red. Antique gold jewellery suits this warm palette for festive days.

What does the Silkmark on it actually guarantee?

Silkmark is the purity label of the Silk Mark Organisation of India. Here it certifies that the fabric is genuine tussar silk, not a blend or a synthetic look-alike. It speaks to the fibre; the Madhubani print and the colours are a separate matter of hand craft.

What does the block-printing process involve?

Artisans first carve the Madhubani-inspired designs into wooden blocks. Each block is then dipped in colour and pressed onto the tussar by hand, one impression after another along the length. It is slow, careful work, and it gives the print its slightly organic, hand-made edge.

Will it look exactly like the photos?

Very close, but each piece is printed by hand, so the depth of colour and the alignment of the blocks can vary slightly from one saree to the next. Screens also show shades a little differently. These small differences are the nature of hand block printing and make each piece its own.

How should I store it?

Keep it in its own bag in a dry place, and change the folds regularly so creases don't set across the print. Air it in non-moist air from time to time, and dry it in the shade if it gets damp. It is dry clean only, so skip home washing.