A kaftan is a loose-fitting dress made of a soft, lightweight fabric. The dress kaftans are primarily ankle-length; however, as the fashion industry evolves, new varieties are added to the traditional design making it a suitable option for all kinds of events. A kaftan was originally a traditional Islamic dress that signified royalty. The Ottomans used exotic fabrics imported from faraway lands to tailor this unique outfit for their wives. Women of the royal family wore long flowy dresses with pleats and drapes, adorned with jewels and stones. The outfit added sophistication with a touch of gaiety. As time passed, more and more women started imitating the royal family’s dress code, and kaftans were soon seen on numerous women of significance. Whether the women belonged to the royal court or were the ministers’ wives, kaftans were the dresses that set the women apart from the commoners.
Like everything else, fashion evolved, and kaftans were forgotten in the pages of history. However, kaftans are now making a comeback in popular culture. From Hollywood celebrities to the British Royal family, the women can often be seen clad in elegant kaftans, sometimes with a train trailing behind and other times hitched a little high on the calves. The outfit is timeless, graceful, and grand. But it’s not just the Met Gala that one might get a chance to wear a kaftan. If you are wondering why kaftans are being relaunched as part of pop culture and how you, too, can be a part of this fashion parade, keep reading!
Kaftans And The Fashion World
While the kaftans worn during the Ottoman era were embellished with gemstones and rocks to reflect a person’s consequence, today, the meaning of this dress is a little different. Kaftans have re-joined popular culture because of their simple yet sophisticated design and sleek cuts. There is a variety of designs available that you can choose depending on your preferred style and personal choice. Kaftans are mostly soft, breezy fabric that allows easy air passage. This quality is why people from the east and west prefer kaftans during the summers. The most popular design involved pleating in the centre and the cloth flowing down in streams. The fabric is exceptionally light, and the flowy design makes it the perfect option for the summer.
Today kaftans are a symbol of the ultimate sophistication. Whether it’s the Golden Globe Awards, the Met Gala, or the BAFTA’s, many artists and celebrities opt for kaftans instead of the traditional gowns. Some are made of sheer lace overlaid with sparkling stones, while others choose a solid or printed fabric with a belt around the waist. The great thing about kaftans is how versatile they are. You can wear a kaftan whether you are trying to cover your body and also wear it if you want to show some skin. Plunging necklines, shoulder pleats, backless designs with cuts on the side are all available nowadays and getting increasingly famous as the go-to design for A-list stars.
How To Style A Kaftan
A kaftan, like any other outfit, is a reflection of your personal style. There is no right or wrong way to wear a dress. The main thing you need to keep in mind when wearing a kaftan is that it’s made to suit your body, so however you choose to design it, it’ll be the perfect fit! Here we will give you tips to help you select a kaftan that will make you the star of every event. So let’s dive in!
Choose The Fabric
Kaftans can be made from any fabric. Whether it’s chiffon, velvet, or silk, a kaftan looks divine in all styles. However, kaftans are traditionally the outfit of the summer season, which is why choosing a lighter fabric will make your kaftan styling easier. Not only that, there is a wide range of materials catering to warmer, breezy temperatures. Go for chiffon or silk to get the most flow out of your kaftan that will make you look like a goddess.
Select The Style
The kaftan style should reflect your personality and can even be an expression of your ideals and beliefs. Rich, dark colours such as maroon, black, royal blue, and emerald green are good choices for night time events such as parties, dinners, and cocktail hour. Softer or brighter colours such as pinks and peaches or magenta and corals if you want to go for the bolder options are perfect for brunches, beach holidays and beachside events.
Conclusion
Kaftans have made a comeback, and the best thing to do is be a part of the fashion parade. By adding your own unique touches, you can make your kaftans stand out from the crowd. Whether you want to go for the rich aunt vibe or channel your inner J Lo, kaftans is the perfect way to set the ramp on fire. The breezy cuts and soft layers are here to stay, and fashion enthusiasts all over the world couldn’t be happier!
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