aftan

Aftan, commonly spelled kaftan or caftan in many languages, is a long, loose-fitting robe with long sleeves worn by people across a wide region that includes the Middle East, North Africa, the Caucasus, and parts of Central and South Asia. The garment is typically open at the front and secured by a belt, sash, or tie, and it may be worn as everyday attire or ceremonial dress.

Variations of the garment appear in many cultures, with the terms kaftan, caftan, and kaftan indicating similar forms in Persian, Turkish, Arabic, and other languages. The form has ancient roots in the Eurasian and Islamic world, expanding through trade routes and empires such as the Ottoman, Persian, and Moroccan courts.

Regional styles differ in cut, fabric, and decoration. Moroccan caftans are often elaborately embroidered and worn for weddings and special events; Turkish and Persian versions range from simple robes to luxury garments lined with fur or trimmed with gold or silver thread. In Central Asia and South Asia, kaftans are common as both male and female attire and are frequently made of silk or fine cotton with intricate embroidery.

Common materials include silk, velvet, cotton, and wool. Decorations may include embroidery, applique, metallic thread, beads, or gemstones. Variants can feature fur trims, wide sleeves, or a panelled front and may be worn with a belt or sash.

In contemporary fashion, aftan/kaftan remains versatile, appearing in casual, festive, and bridal contexts in various regions and in global fashion collections through designers who reference traditional forms.