Calling out the 'kaftan'

Innovative styles are creating their own space in fashion today. The popular kaftan thus doesn’t come as a surprise for those who love it. It’s perhaps the easy style and the comfort factor that makes it a hit among fashionistas.

Youngsters love kaftan for the way it flows, says Akshita R, a young professional. Her favourite is embroidered kaftan tunics because they are traditional yet can turn heads. “While the heavy work gives a traditional look, the simple ones offer a great airport or beach look. Kaftans have been a global sensation since long and are here to stay,” she says.

This particular outfit is trending as it is inspired from deconstructed and comfortable clothing. Nivedita Saboo, a fashion designer, says that prints on kaftans vary from traditional paisley designs to the absolutely modern digital ones. This can encompass jewellery, animal prints or an amalgamation of it all. “There are many variations of the kaftan — capes, deconstructed shirts, asymmetric tunics and drawstring styles. These can be incorporated into pret as well as couture clothing,” she says.

It is a great summer staple and an effortless addition to one’s look. From solids to printed kaftan tops or tunics, these can be worked with classic denim wear, says Shiny Alexander, fashion stylist and designer. “Be it resort or lounge wear, kaftans now are in basic  and embellished styles. I’ve even created a white kaftan-styled ensemble for a beach wedding,” she says.

Shiny adds, “In fabrics like georgette and chiffon, kaftans in abstract prints are more popular.”

Shammy Choraria, a designer, has tried her own twist to kaftans. “This style is an old favourite for many, which is a variant of the robe and tunic. Over the years, kaftan has transformed a lot,” she details. “I have used the kaftan style for dresses in silk. A kaftan was understood as a one-piece garment earlier but now they are teamed with different bottoms,” she adds. 

With the festive season on, Nuhi Kulsum, an engineering student, has decided to buy a kaftan style tunic. “It is quite versatile,” she says. She points out that kaftans are easily available in floral prints but solid colours with simple prints have a very classy look. “There are also kaftans which can be tightened around the waist with a belt or a drawstring to give a sharper look,” she adds.