Some clothes will look great on everybody. Such is the case with kaftans. Loose, lightweight and made to make your beach day easier, kaftans are a great resort top choice, but can also work as a dress for various occasions. If you're looking to get a kaftan top or two, here are some ideas on how you can wear it and what accessories you can complete it with.
What is a Kaftan?
Kaftan or caftan is a garment with flowing sleeves and ankle-length length. It's a loose dress that used to be very long and buttoned up. And while now this is predominantly piece of clothing that women wear, in the past it was a Middle Eastern male robe. Kaftans used to made of silk or cotton and often had a sash or belt around the waist. But, as the years went by and as fashion was changing, kaftan too went through several transformations. It's no longer clothing for men only, and you can find it in various models, colours and materials
How to Wear a Kaftan
On the Beach
This is the most popular place to wear your kaftan. It's a coverup for the beach not only as an accessory for your swimsuit but also as a very light piece of clothing that will not cause you to sweat. Once the sun becomes too hot, simply put on your kaftan and protect your shoulders, back and stomach from the UV rays. Kaftans are so popular since there is no limit on who can wear them.
This is not a fitted garment so it can go with just any type of swimsuit. At the same time, you can wear it if you want to have a cocktail or dinner by the ocean. Pair your resort top with your favourite sandals, a cool beach bag, a pair of shades and your straw hat and you're ready to head to the beach. If you want, you can add a belt. It can be a perfect top for the nights out when you feel like wearing trousers or shorts underneath.
Casual and Formal Occasions
Even though most ladies will choose a kaftan for the beach, in fact, it's a great choice for casual or formal occasions. No matter what size of clothes you wear, the kaftan is a perfect choice for every woman. You can accentuate your waist, or wear it loose without any belts. You can choose a model with long sleeves and a deep V-neck. It can match your style if you're a boho chick, but you can also get a monochromatic model for a more formal event. Pair it with high heels, sparkly jewellery and a small purse for a night party or a wedding reception.
When You Need Comfortable and Fashionable Clothes
Pregnant women especially love the comfort that kaftan brings. Not only it can look elegant, laidback and sexy at the same time, but it will make life bearable especially in summer. You don't have to be an expecting mom to choose a kaftan. You may just need a piece of clothing that will not distract you and make you feel uncomfortable no matter if you're at work, doing errands around town or at home.
What to Look For in a Kaftan
The Right Fabric
This depends on where you plan to wear the kaftan. For casual and more formal events, choose a kaftan that's made of fabric that's not so light and transparent. It can be made of several layers of light fabric, so this way you can still be comfortable, without having to wear clothes that might make you feel hot and sweaty. Go for rayon, silk, satin or georgette for the more formal events. For the beach, the lighter the fabric, the better. Choose fabrics that are natural and won't irritate your skin such as cotton or silk.
Length
Kaftans come in different lengths, so you can choose just what you need. If you're looking for a lightweight kaftan that will be your 'office dress', choose a medium length. Shorter models are great for going out. However, many women love the idea of the ankle-length kaftan for the beach as well. There is something so freeing and elegant in the longer models that flow around your body on a hot summer day at the beach. Longer models are also a great choice for more formal events such as receptions, cocktail parties or weddings.
Bags and Shoes
Since most kaftans are loose, they may appear oversized. The trick is to create a balance with the right accessories. If you're going for a casual look choose a smaller bag or a clutch (for an evening occasion). Kaftan can go well with almost any model of shoes. Sandals, flip flops, pumps, high heels, even ankle boots can work well with your kaftan. Of course, everything depends on the event and the occasion where you're wearing it. Match the fabric with your accessories. Silk kaftans look breathtaking with high heels and small evening clutches. A cotton kaftan is better paired with larger bags, espadrilles, flat sandals or flip flops.
