The Kaftan Dress Edit: What They Are and How to Wear Them

Start by thinking about where you intend to wear your kaftan. A short, lightweight beach kaftan is ideal for slipping over swimwear, while a longer style can transition more easily into lunch or evening plans.

Choose a length for the occasion

Short kaftans feel casual and playful, making them well suited to the pool, beach or resort. Midi kaftans offer additional coverage without feeling overly formal. Full-length kaftans create an elegant, sweeping silhouette and can be a comfortable alternative to other maxi dresses.

Consider your footwear, too. A shorter hem works with slides, sandals or bare feet on the sand. A maxi kaftan can be styled with flat sandals during the day or wedges for an elevated evening look.

Look for breathable fabrics

For hot and humid destinations, lightweight and breathable materials are particularly useful. Cotton, linen and fluid woven fabrics can help create that easy, breezy quality people associate with kaftan dresses.

A fabric that packs easily is another advantage when travelling. Loosely folded kaftans generally take up little suitcase space, making it possible to bring several outfit options without overpacking.

Decide between flowing and defined shapes

A traditional loose silhouette offers maximum freedom and an effortlessly relaxed look. To create more definition, choose a kaftan with a self-tie belt or add your own slim belt at the waist.

You can also look at the neckline and sleeve shape. V-necklines visually open the upper body, while boat and round necklines create a softer finish. Wide or three-quarter sleeves add coverage while preserving the kaftan’s flowing appearance.

One of the greatest strengths of a kaftan dress is its versatility. A few accessory changes can transform it from practical swimwear coverage into a polished outfit.

At the beach or pool

Wear a beach kaftan over your swimsuit with slides, a sunhat, sunglasses and a roomy tote. Keep the accessories simple so the outfit remains easy to take on and off throughout the day.

A colourful printed kaftan also makes swimwear feel like part of a considered outfit. Choose colours that complement your swimsuit or place a bright print over a simple black or navy base.

For sightseeing and daytime plans

To wear a kaftan away from the water, add comfortable sandals, a crossbody bag and understated jewellery. If the style is semi-sheer, wear it over a lightweight slip for greater coverage.

For a relaxed summer outfit at home, treat your kaftan as you would any other dress. The flowing silhouette fits naturally into a wardrobe of easy summer dresses, especially when comfort is a priority.

For lunch or evening drinks

A long kaftan can look instantly more refined with metallic sandals, a clutch and a statement earring. Define the waist with a belt when you want a dressier silhouette, or leave it loose for elegant movement.

When styling a bold printed kaftan, let the pattern remain the focus. Neutral accessories in tan, cream, metallic or black will support the print rather than competing with it.

Kaftans are especially valuable when you want to pack fewer pieces that can work in several settings. One style might serve as a swimwear cover-up in the morning, a comfortable sightseeing dress during the afternoon and a resort outfit after sunset.

For a coordinated holiday wardrobe, choose a kaftan in colours that work with the swimwear, sandals and accessories you are already packing. This creates more combinations without requiring more luggage.

A kaftan can also provide useful coverage from the sun or air conditioning while maintaining a summery appearance. Styles with sleeves are helpful on cruises and resort holidays, where you may move frequently between outdoor heat and cooler indoor spaces.

For more destination-ready ideas, explore our guide to tropical holiday outfits. Shoppers looking for relaxed warm-weather options across an inclusive size range can also browse plus-size summer dresses.