KAFTAN DRESS

kaftans have found their way back to the fashion scene in recent years (although we cannot say they were ever out of fashion) and are becoming increasingly more popular, pleasing the taste of both women that wish for classy and chic formal outfits and those that are drawn into more casual appearances; yet, do not want to look like a tomboy.


How to Wear a Kaftan

1. On The Beach

It is one of the most popular (if not THE most popular) ways of wearing a kaftan these days. Use it as a coverup on the beach and instantly take your beachwear to an upper level. Made from a light, breezy fabric, a kaftan is a superb option if you want to accessorize your swimsuit or bikini. Not to mention that it also provides you with protection against the sun’s UV rays (if long enough to cover most of your body).


Tip - Choose a kaftan in a natural fabric to help your body remain cool

2. For Formal or Casual Occasions

Kaftans look great on almost all women, no matter their shape or size, and help hide any parts of the body you would not like to be accentuated. For example, women with a bigger bust can get an incredibly flattering appearance with a kaftan with long sleeves and a low V-neck

Tips;
• Wear your brightly-coloured kaftan with the beautiful safari/West Africa patterns with a matching head wrap and scarf.

• You can make your waist look tiny by cinching your kaftan in with a wide leather belt.

• A silk or cotton kaftan top looks wonderful over shorts. Top it up with beads and achieve the perfect casual summer look.

• Kaftans are very comfortable and loose-fitting, which is why they are the perfect sleepwear and loungewear too. Just pick a pattern you like and make sure your item is made of a natural fabric so that your body is kept cool even on hot days.
What to Look For When You Want to Find the Perfect Kaftan

1. The Right Fabric
It all depends on when you plan to wear your kaftan. The flowy fabric it is usually made of can make your dress look inappropriate for the occasion you want it unless you upgrade its look with carefully selected accessories. Having said that, a kaftan made of silk, cotton or another natural fabric is definitely a great pick for a casual outing (i.e. beach picnic). Choose rayon, georgette, satin or silk for a more formal event, such as an evening party.

2. The Right Length

You can find both short and long versions of the dress. A medium-length, printed kaftan is much more preferred for a day in the office, especially when teamed up with a pair of leggings while a short kaftan is an excellent choice for a casual outing. To complete the look, you can match it with a pair of shorts or slim-fit jeans. Finally, a long kaftan (at least, mid-calf length – floor-length dresses add more style and class, though) can be worn at a formal function, such as a beach wedding or a cocktail party.

3. The Right Bag
Due to its loose fit, a kaftan looks a bit oversized. Since the trick is to have harmony and balance, small purses and bags (for a casual look), as well as clutches (for an evening party or formal occasions) go well with it. If you need to wear a bag, pick one that matches the colour of your dress.

4. The Right Shoes
A pair of nude heels looks fantastic when teamed with a printed kaftan. The great thing about kaftans is that you can wear them with whatever shoe you wish, from wedge sandals to a pair of high heels, depending on the look you want to achieve. Of course, it is probably wise not to wear a silk kaftan with wedges or luxurious silver high heels with a cotton kaftan.

Outfit Idea: You will be amazed by how a monochrome kaftan, paired with a basic tee, worn out denim, and a pair of white sneakers can so easily create the ultimate casual summer look!

5. The Right Accessories
Some elegant pieces of jewellery can make you look more sophisticated in your kaftan. Needless to say, if the kaftan already has shiny embellishments, better avoid overdoing it with jewellery that make a loud statement,