A caftan is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own. Not only do they come in a massive variety of lengths, colors, patterns, and sizes, but they can be worn while you’re relaxing at home, out for brunch, or at a formal event.
Natori’s luxury caftans check all of these boxes, and if you haven’t bought one before, here is everything you need to know about them and five ways to style them this Summer.
5 Easy Ways to Style Your Caftan This Summer
What is a Caftan
A caftan is traditionally a long, flowing garment with oversized, long sleeves and a loose fit. Common in the Middle East and North Africa, caftans offer full coverage while remaining incredibly light and breathable and a must for hot climates.
They have now evolved into statement pieces, being covered in elaborate patterns and jewels, and becoming an item that will look equally at home on a brunch date as it would on the red carpet.
How to Pick the Right Caftan
Picking the right caftan is like selecting any other garment; there are a few things you should look for depending on where and when you want to wear it.
Fabric
For Summer, you should pick a fabric that is light and breathable. You can find caftans that are 100% cotton or a cotton and linen blend; both materials are perfect for Summer as they keep you cool even during the hottest part of the day.
As mentioned already, a caftan is meant to be something easy to wear, so pick the material you like best; there’s nothing more to it than that.
Length
A traditional caftan is ankle length, but there is no set rule. Nowadays, you can get short caftans, knee-length and ankle-length ones, it all depends on what you prefer. A knee-length or short one for summer is definitely a good choice.
While there is no one correct length to choose, knee-length is better for a day out, while ankle-length is usually better for night looks and relaxing at home.
Balancing
When creating a balanced look with a caftan, it is essential to remember proportions. Considering a caftan can be quite big and baggy, you don’t want to have an oversized handbag as everything will look too big.
Instead carry a clutch and keep the rest of your accessories small; this will prevent you from looking like you are disappearing into your outfit.
Shoes
The long and short of it is that you can wear any shoes with a caftan. You can wear sandals when you go to the beach, slip-ons when you’re at home, or heels when having a night out on the town.
Accessories
As mentioned above, it is best to keep your accessories on the small side. The best caftan looks often use accessories to accent the outfit instead of being a primary focus. This becomes especially true if your caftan is embellished with jewels already.
The Beach
At the beach, keep your look simple and clean. A white or off-white caftan keeps you cool in the sun, and a simple pair of sandals give you an Ancient Greece look that screams chic simplicity and comfort.
Casual
When it comes to casual looks, you have far more options. A short or long caftan can be paired with any shoes of your choice, and your accessories can range from a small clutch bag to a long necklace if you so choose.
Casual looks are where caftans shine as their versatility is put on show, and you are able to experiment with mixing and matching almost everything in your closet.
Date Night
Date night is a time to dress up and add that extra bit of sparkle and pizzazz. A short caftan with a pair of heels is a simple yet super-stylish way to get a date-night look. If it’s a bit chillier, simply swap out the short caftan for an ankle-length one.
Again, keep the accessories simple as you don’t want to do too much. However, a long necklace or choker compliments the unique caftan neckline perfectly. Depending on if the sun may still be up, a classic pair of sunglasses adds a retro touch.
On Holiday
Going on holiday is another time where you can experiment with looks. You can easily take a few caftans with you and have a look for every occasion, simply by changing your shoes and accessories.
If you are walking about and exploring, slip on a pair of strappy sandals, and if those aren’t for you, a pair of Air Force 1’s and a streetwear edge you didn’t think you could get.
At Home
Many will argue that the best time to wear a caftan is when you are relaxing at home. When it is hot outside, a simple caftan with no shoes and nothing to weigh you down is the perfect outfit to keep you feeling calm and relaxed.
Once again, opt for lighter materials like cotton blends and linens, and you will have a garment you will never want to take off.
