Who invented the kaftan?
The Kaftan can be described as any loose fitting robe, tunic or dress and is believed to have originated in Mesopotamia. It was considered a sign of status and wealth and was made from materials like cotton and silk. The kaftan was originally worn in hot climates, and because of the loose fit, it provided much needed ventilation.
The kaftan continues to make an appearance in our fashion scene. In the 19th century, the well travelled brought kaftans back from their journeys as oriental and Turkish interiors were in vogue.
In the 50's and 60's, designers like Balenciaga and Christian Dior designed their versions of the kaftan and in the 70's, Halston followed suit. In 1966, Vogue described the kaftan as "the essential garment for the jet set because leisure and repose emanate from them."
I love a kaftan because you can dress them up or down, wear them from the beach to dinner or just lounge in them. Here are a few of our favorites available at KMM Collective. Keep scrolling to see how the jet set wore them and also check out these articles to see more images and learn more:
Caftan Liberation: How an ancient fashion set modern women free
Ashley Olsen
Yves Saint Laurent in Morocco
Cate Blanchett
Queen Noor of Jordan
Lee Radzwill
Aretha Franklin
You're not in style if you don't have a kaftan in your closet!