Kaftans are a timeless and versatile piece of clothing that every woman should have in her wardrobe. With roots in ancient Mesopotamia, the kaftan has been a staple garment across the Middle East, North Africa and beyond for centuries. Today, kaftans continue to give women stylish options for both casual everyday wear and formal events. A kaftan is essentially a loose, flowing robe that comes in various lengths, sleeves, necklines and fabrics. It cinches at the waist with a tie or belt to give some shape. Kaftans can be worn over other clothes or on their own. They are commonly made of light, breezy fabrics like cotton, silk or rayon that keep you cool in warm weather.

One of the great things about kaftans is how many different ways you can style them for different looks. A shorter, tunic-style kaftan with bold patterns looks fantastic with jeans or leggings for a funky daytime outfit. A dressier silk kaftan worn loose over a slimmer skirt or pants makes a chic outfit for a wedding or evening out. Pair a kaftan with wedges or sandals for a resort-ready ensemble. For a more modest look, layer a long-sleeved kaftan over a long dress. Top your outfit with a coordinating hijab, scarf or headwrap. The key is to have fun mixing and matching kaftans with other pieces already in your closet. Play with different fabrics, prints, lengths and sleeve styles. An animal print cotton kaftan belted over solid leggings has a completely different vibe from a sequined silk kaftan worn as a glamorous cover-up over an evening gown.

Kaftans are also available in a rainbow of colors from neutrals like black, white and beige to vivid hues like sapphire, emerald and ruby. Bold African mudcloth prints or Indian block prints add an exotic flair. Floral patterns, paisleys and Moroccan-inspired tiles also adorn kaftans with beautiful detail. In hot weather, lightweight cotton or rayon kaftans keep you cool and comfortable when temperatures rise. In colder months, try a knit jersey or cashmere kaftan for extra warmth and coziness at home.

Kaftans are so figure-flattering for all shapes and sizes. They elegantly drape and skim over curves. The loose silhouette is forgiving and stylish at the same time. Kaftans can be dressed up or down for women of all ages too. No matter what your personal style, kaftans have an effortless way of making you look pulled together. Keep a few in your closet for spur-of-the-moment events when you want to look fashionable without a lot of fuss. Simply belt the kaftan at your natural waistline, add metallic sandals and bold jewelry, and you have an easy, breezy look in minutes.
So give your wardrobe a refresh by working in some kaftans. With so many options, you’ll have fun coming up with different outfits every which way!
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