Chances are that you probably have at least one in your wardrobe already, but more than likely, you wear it just for the beach as a cover up. But the humble kaftan is way more deserving of just being used at the beach! The kaftan’s versatility is endless, offering its wearer so much more than you could ever imagine! Think I’m a kaftan fan? You are right!
My love of kaftans began in West Africa, The Gambia to be precise. A visit to the local market is a must when in town where you can find a whole host of seamstresses peddling their wares. It was here I met Eff, who made the most beautiful tie dye kaftans. I bought several and spent the rest of my holiday wearing them. My new kaftans kept me cool, stopped me getting mosquito bites and made me look quite super stylish. My love affair began.
The Kaftan: Steeped in History
Persian in origin, the kaftan has been worn by a variety of cultures for thousands of years and has even been a symbol of royalty in some parts of the world. The exact design, style, usage and moniker for the kaftan varies but generally its consensus is that it is worn as a lightweight, loose fitting garment by both men and women. Kaftans can be made out of various materials including wool, cashmere, silk, or cotton, may be worn with a belt or sash and can vary in length.
The kaftans ‘exotic’ appearance ensured its popularisation in the 20th century when many fashion houses jumped on-board to create their version of a kaftan. It was perhaps the 70’s American hippie fashions that helped launch funky street style versions, of this once steeped-in-history, nostalgic regalia, that ensured the kaftan was here to stay.
And I for one love that they are!
Why You Should Own a Kaftan
As we navigate the changes in our body, turning fifty for many of us often means a change in style and at the very least, an adaptation. Things aren’t in the same place and there are a few more wobbly bits here and there so for me, a kaftan is the ideal piece of clothing to embrace the shifts in our body.
The modest kaftan is the perfect choice of clothing for us nifty-fifty warriors for a variety of different reasons.
Versatile
Kaftans are a staple fashion garment that moves with time. They can be used for popping on after a shower, running to the supermarket, dressing down with pumps, dressing up for an evening event and they are super easy for packing if you plan to travel.
Cool
I don’t just mean as in hip cool, I mean really cool as in temperature. Kaftans are generally on the whole loose fitting and therefore don’t touch your skin so in warmer climates, a kaftan allows your body to stay cool. During the hot flushes of menopause, kaftans are a dream – trust me, I know! Make sure that the kaftan is either cotton or linen for optimum benefit because nylon will stick to a hot body.
Fit any shape & size
Kaftans hide a multitude of sins and fit any body shape. Whether you are short, tall, chunky, skinny or anywhere in between then do not rule out a kaftan. They are super easy to throw on, even on those ‘fat’ days and can make you feel a million dollars. A kaftan isn’t something that is going to show off our curves but, who cares?
Good value for money
The thing with a kaftan is that you don’t have to worry about what goes with it! It is the whole deal, your entire outfit! So when you buy one, that’s it, you have the whole kit and kaboodle in one. That said, I have seen some funky fashionistas spice up their kaftan over jeans or trousers which works a treat, but that’s up to you.
Not Convinced You Need a Kaftan Yet?
Kaftans are an undeniable piece of clothing that provides versatility, elegance and style no matter age, shape or size.
If you don’t believe me, check out the rich and famous sporting kaftans from the Kardashians, to Rhianna, J-Lo to Oprah, kaftans are proving to be the new black when it comes to fashion for the over fifties.
I love Kaftans So Much Look What I Did…..
I love kaftans so much, I created my very own kaftan Pinterest board! Check out my Pinterest kaftan collection for a host of inspiration when it comes to all things kaftanesque!
Images: All the kaftan images were kindly provided by Two, New York. You can read all about this amazing kaftan company by clicking here.
