Caftan Nation
Image from Town & Country
Caftans are the perfect summer garments. Especially for places with 90º temps and soaring humidity. Like the summertime where I live. They have been worn in this type climate for centuries - think middle east and Africa. They’re conducive to staying cool. Open and airy and exotic. These have been around in glamorous circles since Elizabeth Taylor sparked the trend in the 60’s, after starring as Cleopatra. They then popped up in the collections of Pucci, Halston and Saint Laurent. The next thing you knew, the beautiful people were all wearing them. Princess Grace, Lee Radziwill, etc etc… Remember André Leon Talley?
But now the caftan is accepted as ordinary and is a global classic. Anyone and everyone can and does wear them, even the youngsters! They are available in all different prices ranges and I couldn’t be happier. I love them and wear them whenever it suits the occasion.
They can be dressed up with statement earrings or a big cuff or bangle on the wrist, with heels, or worn with flat sandals, or even barefoot. Comfort and glamour are not mutually exclusive! There is a caftan for every occasion. Doesn’t caftan sound so much better than muumuu?
Here are some of the gems I found for you. (This post started out longer - several of the pieces I picked, sold out before I got this finished!)
Click images for links…
On Sale!
Pretty pieced caftan from Tory Burch- the sale price makes it more budget friendly!
This little Anthropologie number by Maeve is really sweet and comes in lots of prints/colors.
COS classic caftan - what’s not to love?
This Johnny Was piece is pricey but gorgeous and nice for a special event.
This is also more casual and fun. I would dress it up and dress it down, depending on the destination. Just change up the shoes and jewelry.
Fun and casual from Zara!
I love this from Anthro. The colors would take you right into fall…
Emerson Fry is one of the queen of the Indian block printed caftans. Love them all. They pack well, and I’ve worn mine for 4-5 years.
ON sale!
Pax Philomena has gorgeous caftans. These are also hand blocked in India. Usually pricier, they might be for a special occasion. This one is a midi length.
From Tuckernuck is slightly preppy and can also be easily dressed up or down.
Emerson Fry - a midi length. You can tie these under the bust or leave it loose.
Another cute shorter one from Tuckernuck.
Tuckernuck also has some great caftans. The print on this one is really pretty.
This one is a good price and very good looking - from Anthro.
A cute short one from Tuckernuck.
This is the one I have from Emerson Fry - I have thoroughly enjoyed it.
The shorter ones can be a coverup and then dressed up with shoes and jewelry for lunch or dinner.
A pretty dressier one from Oliphant.
Another one from Pax Philomena. Apparently Oprah liked this one.