Dressier Caftans

I love a caftan—they say summer to me, although I also wear them in the winter if we’re hosting a fun dinner party at home! I have two categories of caftans: one is more of an all-day workhorse and can be worn as a beach coverup but also to lunch or more casual dinner, and then the fancy type that I would wear to a more dressed-up event. The former is likely in cotton or linen and the latter in some kind of silk, or perhaps a very crisp cotton. While I have more of a minimalist uniform style in my non-holiday life, give me a caftan and I’m game for bright color and prints. Friends, I have to admit, the caftan lifestyle can become an addiction, and while you and your friends may all love them since they’re super chic and without a doubt the most comfortable piece of clothing you own, your partner may protest that you’re heading into Mrs. Roper territory. Regardless, here’s what I’m eyeballing, even if Matt will kill me if another one enters the house: “One caftan enters, one must leave.” (Also can be heard saying: “Not another box from Lisa Corti!”). And since we’re already well into summer (fashion-wise), a number of these are already on sale!

1. This Tulsishop kaftan may be in cotton, but the bib front dresses it up.

2. This silk Pucci caftan is definitely in the special-occasion category, but maybe if I have it I won’t need any others?!

3. Then again, I could go for this cotton one at half the price!

4. This one from Maxmara fits my minimalist direction with just enough party at the bottom.

5. Thierry Colson caftans in crisp cotton are a polished approach

6. Into this one from Two New York in metallic linen 

7. This vintage YSL terrycloth isn’t something I’d pack since it would take up my luggage space, but I’d certainly bring it to a friend’s house for a chic weekend party. 

8. A paisley pattern I love in a silk/cotton voile

9. Rianna + Nina dresses are always my favorites for any summer party—always an attention getter. I love this one in red/black.

10. La DoubleJ’s Magnifico dress in a light silk twill has impact.

11. This Lisa Corti silk Radha kaftan could be dressed up, but also works well for a summer office meeting.

12. A sparkly Missoni caftan