Believed to have originated in Ancient Mesopotamia, the “kaftan,” (also often called “caftan”) has, in more recent times, become a fashion catchall term describing any loosely fitting tunic. We’ve long loved caftans as chic beach cover-ups, but this season, they’re just as perfect for elevating work-from-home outfits, or for getting ready to go out in no time flat. Just throw a colorful caftan on in place of a dress, or layer a shorter version over shorts or capris, and you’ve got a trendy, summertime look. No matter what you’ve got planned this summer, here are some of the designer caftans that (re) launched the trend and some you can find in Indy right now.
Emilio Pucci first helped popularize resortwear in the 1960s in Capri, and the brand’s recent caftan offerings channel similar getaway vibes.
Designed by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2020 collection included several glamorous warm-weather options, like this colorfully striped caftan.
Want to carry the look into autumn? Gucci’s Alessandro Michele styled models wearing caftans for his Pre-Fall 2020 collection, paired with colorful tights.
A deep plunging neckline gives an extra dose of fierceness to this python-print caftan. Find it at the e-store of Barbie Turner’s Be the Boutique in Broad Ripple.
Silver python open front midi caftan, $99 at Betheboutique.com
You really can’t go wrong with anything at 8FIFTEEN, Erin Welch’s stylish Broad Ripple boutique—just take this gorgeous green number from hard-to-find beachwear brand Oneseason Australia.
Oneseason Australia caftan, $175 at 8FIFTEEN, 815 E. 65th Street, 8fifteen.com
This “shore bird” print style from Sunsets is sheer perfection.
Sunsets tunic, $86 at Beach Baby Surf & Swim Shop, 8687 River Crossing Blvd, Beachbabyonline.com
100% cotton makes this maxi-length caftan ultra-breathable.
White stripe beach maxi caftan, $79 at Betheboutique.com
Add effortless elegance to your everyday look with this lace-front top from Tommy Bahama.
Indigo garden lace-up tunic, $105, Tommy Bahama at The Fashion Mall at Keystone, or TommyBahama.com
Head to Anthropologie for this striped style from Duet with a beautifully beaded neckline.
Duet caftan, $138 at Anthropologie at The Fashion Mall at Keystone
Stephanie Groves is a freelance writer in Indianapolis who is all about comfort dressing.