How to style a kaftan for every occasion

When it comes to chic, easy, and cool summer dressing, kaftans are often overlooked. Well, we’re here to change that. Loose and flowy but still stylish, kaftans are versatile pieces that, with the right cut, materials, and accessories, can look perfect for any occasion.

Kaftans are difficult to describe in terms of sleeves, length, or how they’re fastened, but you’ll know one when you see one: they’re generally loose, at least knee-length fabrics that are generally worn as an outer layer. Their breathability makes them perfect for when the temperatures rise, and their versatility ensures that they look flattering on every body type.

Kaftans come in a variety of materials: elaborate silks for evenings and events and cotton, linen, and bamboo for everyday wear. Choosing the right kaftan for your height and body type is also important: for instance, to highlight and lengthen the torso, individuals with apple-shaped bodies can opt for v-neck kaftans. On the other hand, kaftans with a cinched waist can draw emphasis to an hourglass figure. Lastly, petite frames should opt for shorter styles to avoid feeling “drowned”. In short, the perfect kaftan for you is out there!

If you’ve been looking for kaftan outfit ideas to spice up your summer wardrobe, here is how to style a kaftan for every occasion.

A cotton or bamboo kaftan is the perfect outer layer for a casual day on the town. Kaftans offer plenty of styling options: whether you go for ankle or knee-length, you can style your kaftan as a dress, or you can keep it open and wear it layered with a basic top and a casual pair of loose-fitting pants, like jeans. In any case, accessories should be casual, but not too boho: leather sandals or souped-up sneakers and minimal jewellery.

Nothing says beach vacay like a kaftan! Kaftans are as stylish in the city as they are when worn as beach or pool cover-ups, taking you from the poolside to the bar with ease. Wear them open like a long, flowy blouse on the beach, and fasten them up to explore the town. Besides your new, gorgeous tan, the best accessories to go with your beach kaftan outfit are the right swimwear, leather thong sandals, and trendy sunglasses.

A formal occasion calls for an elegant, silk kaftan. In this case, too, you can go for either knee or ankle-length: when paired with the right accessories, both kaftan styles will look like a million dollars on a night out.

Speaking of accessories, make sure to pick pieces that are elevated, but that don’t distract from the print and cut of your kaftan. We love styling our silk kaftans with elegant heeled sandals—which will elongate your legs if you’re wearing a shorter kaftan—and jewel clutch bags: a printed silk kaftan paired with a gold clutch, gold heels and gold jewellery will make you the belle of the ball. On the other hand, statement jewellery should be reserved for plain kaftans to elevate the look.

Kaftans are unquestionably one of the best wardrobe essentials for summer. Timeless and always flattering, this effortlessly stylish yet comfortable piece can be worn for any occasion—with the right accessories, of course. Whether you’re going for something bright and boho or a minimal, clean look, kaftans offer plenty of room for experimentation. Shop for our favourite styles down below.