The kaftans are believed to have been discovered since ancient mesopotamia. In the ancient times they were worn as long tunics by both men and women from persia, ottoman empire etc. In the ottoman empire they were a symbol of royalty usually worn by kings, queens and other high ranking officials. Whereas, when we talk about Morocco, kaftan dresses were worn in special occasions and ceremonies. Fast forward to today, kaftans are considered to be one of the most statement fashion pieces. Imagine a piece of clothing that’s so comfortable, can be easily styled in so many different ways possible and instantly can make for a style statement.
Plus size kaftans are easily available, can be in printed form or embroidered, comes in so many different fabrics and moreover can be easily pulled off for various occasions like airports or wedding functions. Truly, kaftans are celebrated by so many womens in different sizes, different age groups and so many different parts of the world.
Let’s explore the rich history of kaftans across various parts of the world.
- Ancient origins– The kaftan were discovered in Mesopotamia, when they were worn as long tunics. This was the time when kaftan dresses were discovered and they were worn for comfort. It was the time when both men and women wore these. As trade routes expanded, kaftans travelled to Persia, then making it a staple traditional attire. Strange how kaftans were not even discovered in Persia, yet they became a staple traditional attire.
- Ottoman empire– During this time Kaftans for women were used for Royalty by high status officials. These were then made by luxury fabrics like Silk, Brocade, Velvet etc. to add the glam and final touches; it was then finished by adding golden embroideries, stones and other fine thread work which showcased their richness. It was during this time that showcased craftsmanship and artisanship with the fine detailings in those kaftans.
- Moroccan– It’s strange again how kaftans weren’t even found in morocco still it became a traditional part of their clothing. Here the kaftan dresses are not just known for their embroidery but also for vibrant colours, unique designs and fine detailings. They are even today worn in festivals, weddings, religious ceremonies in different parts of morocco. The unique fabric colour choice along with fine detailings makes them an ideal inspiration for today’s designers.
- West Africa– In west africa ‘kaftans’ are called ‘boubou’ or ‘agbada’ and are worn not just by womens but also by mens. They are playful with colours when it comes to kaftans along with incorporating fine embroidery details. They are worn on important events, symbolizing culture just like morocco. The west african kaftans have gained popularity not just in south africa but also outside it because of the fashion statement the kaftans speaks for itself with playful colour choice and the patterns on them. They are truly every fashion lover’s first choice for kaftans.
- India– In India kaftans for women are celebrated as gowns, dresses, kurtas, coords and what not. In summers we opt for comfort kaftan kurtas or cotton kaftan coords to let the air pass through because it’s Indian summers. And in winters we love wearing velvet kaftans with fine embroidery on them. The choice of kaftans is endless here. They are not just an ideal outfit for casual wear but also for formal and party wear looks. We Indians love leaving an impression of fashion wherever we go and one such fashion statement is kaftan dresses and kaftan kurtas with a touch of indianness to it. It is gaining popularity yet again and it’s for all the right reasons.
Fast forwarding ourselves from past to present kaftans are now celebrated as fashion statements around the globe and they serve timeless fashion too. There are so many women’s favorite loungewear, beachwear, traditional wear and what not. In some places they are also considered as a cultural symbol which symbolizes their culture and rich heritage. For many people, wearing kaftan can be a way to honor their roots while some think that they break the borders and bring people together.
Its journey from Mesopotamia where it was first discovered to the modern world today has been truly unmatched. It has evolved, grown, worn in so many different ways and reasons but remains a timeless piece in every wardrobe. We at Mirraw keep in mind the kaftans rich history and blend in different cultural designs, fine embroidery, rich fabrics and so many bold and vibrant colours. Plus size caftans, different patterns, prints, and embroidered kaftans are available with just a click away!
Shop our kaftan dresses at attractive prices and high quality fabric.
