The Chandrakali saree is woven in dyed silk, and decorated with embroidery. Traditionally considered to be an essential part of a bride’s wardrobe, it had to be woven by the bride herself. The saree is made in the town of Ilkal in Karnataka. The main body of the saree is dyed a deep black-blue, achieved by dipping the silk fibers in a vat of indigo multiple times; the borders and the pallu (end piece) of the saree are dyed crimson and decorated with mirror work and zari embroidery.