Caftans, also known as “kaftans,” are loose-fitting robes with a rich history and are available in a variety of modern styles. Originating in Asia, these oversized tunics have been worn by a number of cultures around the world for thousands of years. In ancient Mesopotamia and Persia, elaborately adorned caftans were worn as a symbol of status and wealth. During the Ottoman Empire, they were worn by sultans and royals to signify power and prestige. In Russian, caftan refers to a style of a man’s long suit with tight sleeves. In modern-day Morocco, they are worn by all social classes, both men and women. In the West, celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Bianca Jagger, and Sarah Jessica Parker have been known to wear caftans as a fashion statement. And us everyday folks may sport caftans as a swimsuit cover-up or as a modest garment that provides extra coverage. Caftans have become trendy with the fashion crowd this season, with designer brands like Gucci, Valentino, and Pucci featuring them in their collections. But there are more affordable and realistic sources for caftans this summer, whether you wear them around the house, on vacation, or on the go.
For me, caftans evoke a 70s sense of style ala designers like Diane von Furstenberg (of wrap dress fame) and Halston. Of course, these brands’ current caftan offerings are well outside my budget, but thrifted and secondhand versions aren’t. Over on ThredUp, you can get a deal on designer brands and caftans. Or check out the reselling site Poshmark for designer and vintage caftans at a fraction of the original cost. When shopping for pre-worn pieces, keep in mind the fit is usually going to be bigger than the labeled size. Even with proper care, all pre-worn clothes will stretch, and caftans especially are cut generously, so while you may be a medium normally, you could fit down to an XS and even up to an XL for an extra drapey look. In other words, don’t limit your size when online secondhand shopping for caftans.
If you’re looking for a going-out or special occasion caftan, which is a thing, then be on the lookout for options rendered in luxe fabrics like satins and silks versus poolside linen. Natori’s Decadence Caftan is a great option for a dressier take on the caftan, with its animal jacquard impression for a summertime version of the little black dress. Or, if you’re in the market for a more romantic print, consider their Sumi-E V-Neck Caftan, made from silky charmeuse with a sleek, glossy finish and featuring a large-scale floral print. Either option would work for any fancy affair when styled with gold jewelry and heeled sandals.
On the flip side, for casual beachy style, lean toward caftans in breathable fabrics and summery patterns, like Handicraft Palace’s Indian Handmade Blue Floral Kaftan. This version has a below-the-bust drawstring to adjust the silhouette for both a flowing feel and a more fitted look. Keep it loosey goosey at the pool with flipflops, then cinch it up with a pair of Birkenstocks to grab a casual dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit more artsy, kooky (who doesn’t like to dress up like Mrs. Roper from time to time), then check out this brand’s Handmade Navy Blue Frida Kahlo caftan. With a navy blue background, this cotton caftan features a tropical print with the Mexican artist’s visage smattered throughout.
For a 9-to-5 caftan, check out Light in the Box’s Geometric Boho Kaftan Dress. Yes, you can take your caftan into the workplace, especially when it leans more toward the caftans of yesterday with paisley and geometric print on a dark background and a sleek A-line silhouette. Or check out their Maxi Kaftan Fashion Dress in pink, wine, or black with a fitted bodice area for a super chic and sleek take on the caftan suited to working hours. Caftans are also great options for summertime work-from-home days.
If you’re just looking to beat the summer heat with a throw-on-and-go minimalist piece, then search for linen caftans on Etsy. There are countless options for a rough-hewn, simple swaths of material with holes for the head and arms. There are also open-seamed caftans for a poncho-like effect to wear over the ubiquitous swimsuit or a sports bra and capri leggings to keep you aerated on muggy hot days.
Now you may be wondering, how is a caftan different than a muumuu, which has not-so-stylish associations. These garments are indeed similar as they are both long, loose-fitting, robe-like dresses. The difference comes in the origin and function of a caftan versus a muumuu. A caftan comes from the Middle East, featuring a sleeve of sorts meant to be worn both casually and on formal occasions with embellishments. A muumuu is a Hawaiian dress often rendered in bright, floral patterns and typically worn casually. So, if it has flowers, it could be a muumuu; everything else can be a caftan, dressed up or down, and suitable for all body types and shapes.
