kaftan

A kaftan, also spelled caftan, is a loose, long robe with wide sleeves that is worn as outer or inner wear in many cultures. The garment typically ranges from knee to ankle length and is often open at the front, fastened with a belt or sash, though some versions are closed or panelled.

Origin and etymology: The word derives from Persian kaftān, adopted into Turkish as kaftan, with cognates in Arabic and other languages. The kaftan has deep historical roots across the Middle East, North Africa, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, with widespread adoption and adaptation in successive empires and cultures, including South Asia.

Design and regional variants: Construction and decoration vary by region. Common features include a straight or robe-like cut, wide sleeves, and a front that may be tied or belted. Fabrics range from cotton and linen to wool, silk, and brocade, often embellished with embroidery, trims, metallic threads, beads, or sequins. Shapes and sleeve styles differ, producing a spectrum from simple daily wear to highly ornate formal garments.

Cultural usage: In the Ottoman Empire, kaftans signified status and were worn by men and women in many courtly contexts. In Morocco, the caftan is a traditional formal dress for weddings and special occasions. In Iran and the Caucasus, long kaftans have appeared in both everyday and ceremonial attire. In the Indian subcontinent, the kaftan appeared in Mughal and regional court dress and remains common in various regional fashions today.

Modern usage: Today, kaftans are widely worn as comfortable, resort, or lounge wear and are produced by many designers in a range of fabrics and embellishments.