A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO KAFTANS

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A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO KAFTANS

Black Hand Block Printed Cotton Kaftan with Pants

When we hear summer, the first thought that strikes our mind is a long dreamy breezy vacation near beaches. And if it’s beaches, you definitely can’t get over with the women Kaftans. This go-to summer attire has turned out to be one of the most adorned outfits this year. Hey! We are not saying this. Social media is flooded with this upcoming trend. Many famous Bollywood fashion Divas such as Masaba Gupta, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Shilpa Shetty have sworn their love for this air-breezy garment. From quick power naps to attending virtual meetings, fortunately, Kaftans have turned into a multi-functional outfit. They are usually worn on beaches or a summer vacation, but these days you can even wear them on a formal occasion or as ethnic wear if styled right. And to get your styling game right, you must understand the basics. In this blog, you will get a clear understanding of what Kaftan is, how to choose a perfect fit, and different styles to choose this summer.

WHAT’S A KAFTAN?

Blue Red Art Silk Kaftans with Pants
Blue Red Art Silk Kaftans with Pants

Traditional Kaftans are loose-fit ankle-length garments with longer or elbow-length sleeves and come with a belt or a sash. In the Turkish language, the word Kaftan means a robe or a tunic.

ORIGIN

Thanks to Christain Dior for introducing Caftan dresses, AKA, Kaftans, into western fashion. It was the hippie trendsetters who widely accepted the Kaftan fashion in America. Famous Hollywood celebs like Diana Vreeland and Elizabeth Taylor helped to publicize this fashion in the late ’70s. However, it was designer Halston who incorporated this style into mainstream fashion. 

FACTS YOU MUST CONSIDER WHILE CHOOSING THE PERFECT FIT

#1. FABRIC

It is necessary to pay attention while choosing the suitable fabric for the right occasion. The complete theory behind wearing a Kaftan is to be at ease and match the aesthetics of the separate occasion you will attend. Kaftans made of cotton, silk, and linen are suitable for a casual outings like beaches. For evening parties, you can opt for georgette, rayon, silk, and satin.

#2. LENGTH

Lime Green Shibori Dyed Chanderi Kaftans with Muslin Cotton Pants
Lime Green Shibori Dyed Chanderi Kaftans with Muslin Cotton Pants

Kaftans come in short, medium, and long forms. The length differs depending on the occasion. Opt for medium-length printed silk or chiffon Kaftan for office wear. Pair it up with straight pants, gold or silver jewelry, including a belt and necklace, high-heels with a statement clutch to complete the entire look. For casual fun dating, wear a short-length Kaftan with ripped denim shorts. And wondering what to wear for cocktail parties, go for a full-length Kaftan.

#3. BAGGINESS

The game ultimately lies in how beautifully you create harmony. As we all know, Kaftans make you appear baggy because of it’s loose-oversized fit. Balance out the entire look with printed handbags or clutches that match your color scheme. For a casual event, pair your uber-trendy Kaftan look with a small wicker hand purse. For evening events, go for an embellished small clutch. The reason why you must go for small-sized handbags is to neutralize the bagginess of Kaftans.

#4. FOOTWEAR

Grey Shibori Dyed Cotton Voil Kaftan and White Palazzo
Grey Shibori Dyed Cotton Voil Kaftan and White Palazzo

Printed Kaftans blend well with nude heels, flats, or wedges. If going out for an evening event, go for silver, golden, or bronze color pencil heels that match the best to your outfit. But, while choosing one, also consider the fabric material of your garment. You can wear a white pair of canvas sneakers with kaftans paired with shorts, pants, or ripped jeans. A silk kaftan won’t go with wedges or a linen kaftan will not look good with golden high heels. 

#5. ACCESSORIES

No matter what the occasion is, always opt for statement accessories. For example, ditch your chunky necklace and choose a heavy tassel earring if your Kaftan is heavily embellished. Instead, wear statement stone minimal jewelry effortlessly with a plain or printed Kaftan. 

STYLES TO CHOOSE THIS SUMMER

#1. GO PASTEL

The Pantone shades of 2021: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray and 13-0647 Illuminating is all you need to excite your summer goals. They both are perfect shades for transitional outfits and blends like caramel with every look and occasion. For example, a Kaftan will seamlessly fuse with wide-leg culottes or with a breezy dress. Hence, let the pastels rule your statement wardrobe.

#2. GO EARTHY

Yellow Marron Cotton Block Printed Kaftans
Yellow Marron Cotton Block Printed Kaftans

Earthy tones such as green, red, brown, and indigo give you a great chance to experiment and pull off a gentle, classy, over-the-top relaxed look. Mix-and-match these go-to earthy tones with brighter shades of yellow and orange to get an eye-catchy appearance.

#3. GO BOHO

Bohemian Kaftan dressing is one of the trendiest outfits this season. What’s there not to be obsessed about it? It is the best way to let out your free-hippie-spirited vibe. It’s all about colorful pom-poms, subtle dreamcatchers, printed fabrics, vibrant textures, mystic jewelry, and a playful mix of vivid cultures. And the best part is that you can see all of this in a Kaftan. Experiment with this look with bandanas, pom-pom sandals, large finger rings, or a statement necklace.

#4. GO SHORT AND SHEER

The short and sheer poolside Kaftans are perfect for beachwear as it is easy to get in and out of it. You can even pair them up with your bathing suit and oversized designer sunglasses. 

Irrespective of the occasion, go for elegant Kaftans to add a style statement to your wardrobe.

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