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The 10 Breezy Caftans We're Wearing on Repeat This Summer
On repeat: the season's chicest garment.
Often associated with the haute free spirits of bygone decades, when island-hopping to fabulous villas and nightclubbing in Paris's most exclusive corners was the order of the day, the caftan is actually believed to have its origins in ancient Mesopotamia. Ottoman sultans' ornately decorated robes were often constructed from silk, wool, and cotton, usually tied with a sash, and had defined sleeves. The garments would even be given to dignitaries and generals as rewards or gifts.
The caftan eventually made its way into Europe by travelers who brought the attire with them when returning from these exotic and faraway lands. Fashion houses like Dior and Balenciaga soon adopted the style for their Western customers, often with matching trousers for evening wear.
Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, Pierre Bergé, visited Marrakesh in 1968 and were entranced by Moroccan culture and the country's textile heritage. Laurent started making caftans for people like actress Talitha Getty and model Marisa Berenson. Other designers, like Oscar de la Renta who fashioned caftans as hostess gowns for his clients, put their own spin on the age-old garment.
During the '70s, the caftan saw true elevation to icon status when it became the must-have garment for the bohemian and trend-setting in-crowd. Diana Vreeland frequently photographed caftans in exotic locales; Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor also all donned the iconic garment. Taylor even wore a Gina Fratini creation for her wedding ceremony with Richard Burton.
The caftan has had many different iterations in countries and cultures around the world, making it a truly global fashion phenomenon. Today, the caftan's allure is just as magnetic as it was during the 20th century. Below, the best caftans to wear now.
Grace- Signature Shell© Midi Tunic Dress
Grace- Signature Shell© Midi Tunic Dress
This beach-perfect caftan features watercolor shell motifs painted by Studio Betsy. It's made from lightweight, 100% cotton poplin and features side slits for extra breathability, making it ideal for warmer weather.
Gytha floral-print cotton-poplin kaftan
Gytha floral-print cotton-poplin kaftan
This cotton caftan, inspired by Italy's colorful coast, pays homage to warm terrace lunches spent overlooking the rocky beaches. Let the beautiful blue bougainvillea motifs transport you overseas.
Tuckernuck Summers in St. Tropez Celeste Caftan
Tuckernuck Summers in St. Tropez Celeste Caftan
This cheery yellow caftan practically begs to be taken on summer vacation. A notched neckline and relaxed fit make this your official easy-living uniform.
This floral eyelet kaftan is the ultimate poolside show-stopper. Go for a monochromatic moment with a white bathing suit or add a slip underneath for an alfresco dinner.
Exclusive Pink Stripe Emerson Short Caftan
Exclusive Pink Stripe Emerson Short Caftan
Whether headed to the chaise lounge by the sea or the local farmer's market, this striped number looks best paired with a woven hat and gladiator sandals.
Block-printed by hand in India, the mesmerizing print of this buttery soft caftan is sure to be a standout. It can be dressed up or down for days in the local bazaar or dinners out with friends.
Looking for something to wear to an evening dinner party? Look no further than this chic printed blue silk caftan. The tie waist is universally flattering.
This beautiful caftan is handmade by artisans in India. Though it features intricate embroidery of mystical animalia motifs, cotton keeps it feeling lightweight and summer-ready.
Midi Silk Satin Flower Embroidered Boubou Caftan
Midi Silk Satin Flower Embroidered Boubou Caftan
A flattering neckline, intricate embroidered details, and ethnic-inspired print make this caftan a luxurious addition to your wardrobe.
This navy and white stripe kaftan is the ultimate throw-on-and-go summer uniform. The deep-v neckline and midi length are flattering on everyone—just add some raffia accessories for daytime or a red lip and wedges for a night out.
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