Kaftan Dresses for Women

A kaftan has no waistband, no zip and no fixed measurement through the body. That's the whole design — a... Read More

A kaftan has no waistband, no zip and no fixed measurement through the body. That's the whole design — a loose, wide-cut garment that pulls over the head, originating in Ottoman and North African dress. It's why a kaftan is the most size-flexible thing in any wardrobe, the most comfortable garment in genuine heat, and the easiest dress to pack.

The Duchess Red Kaftan is the most-reviewed here — an exclusive ornamental print with an adjustable waist tie, so you can wear it loose or defined. The Taj Kaftan in orange carries an artisanal print at full maxi length. Among the reductions, the Elyse Blue, Gardenia Green, Retro and Espana kaftans are all $228, down from $328–$398. Every piece is designed by Sandhya Garg, Project Runway Season 13, in prints drawn in-house, sizes XS through 3XL.

Kaftan or kimono? They get used interchangeably and shouldn't be. A kaftan pulls over the head and is a dress in itself. A kimono opens at the front, wraps across the body, and is worn as a layer over something else. If you want one garment that's a complete outfit, you want a kaftan. If you want something to throw over a dress or swimsuit, you want a kimono.

Where a kaftan is the right answer. Genuine heat, first — the loose cut moves air across the skin rather than trapping it, which is why the garment exists in hot climates. Beach and destination weddings, where a printed kaftan reads considered rather than casual and doesn't crease through a flight. Resort daytime and evening, since a change of jewellery takes the same piece from pool to dinner. And pregnancy, recovery, or any period where a fixed waistband is the problem.

Styling. Belt it at the waist for definition, or leave it loose — most kaftans work both ways, and the Duchess has a tie built in. Flat sandals for day, a heeled sandal and statement earrings for evening. Because the silhouette is wide, keep everything else close to the body: a slim shoe, a small bag, hair up or back.

Browse related styles in maxi dresses, tunics, cover-ups and kimonos. By occasion: resort wear, cruise, vacation, beach wedding guest and resort evening wear. Also see linen, floral and plus size resort wear.

Read more: what is resort wear for women, what to wear on a cruise, and resort packing essentials.

Any style can be made to your measurements for $50–$100 above retail. Check the size chart before ordering. Free US shipping on orders over $250. Afterpay available. Ships from Scottsdale, AZ within 1–3 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kaftan dress?
A kaftan is a loose, wide-cut, usually ankle-length garment that pulls over the head, with no waistband or fastening through the body. It originated in Ottoman and North African dress and is now worn worldwide as resort and warm-weather clothing. Because nothing is fitted, it accommodates a wide range of body shapes and sizes in the same piece.

What is the difference between a kaftan and a kimono?
A kaftan pulls over the head and is a complete dress. A kimono opens at the front, wraps across the body and is belted or left open — it's a layer worn over something else. Kaftans come from Ottoman and North African tradition; kimonos are Japanese. If you want one garment that's a full outfit, choose the kaftan.

Can you wear a kaftan to a wedding?
Yes, at beach, destination and resort weddings, where a printed kaftan in a rich fabric reads elegant rather than casual — and it travels far better than a structured dress. Belt it at the waist and add heeled sandals and statement jewellery. For a formal or evening wedding, a structured maxi is the better choice.

Are kaftans good for plus sizes?
Kaftans are among the most size-inclusive garments made, because the fit doesn't depend on a fixed waist or hip measurement. Every kaftan here is cut XS through 3XL in the same prints at the same price, and several styles are one-size by design. If you prefer more waist definition, choose a style with a tie or belt it yourself.

How do you style a kaftan so it doesn't look shapeless?
Belt it at the natural waist, or choose a style with a built-in tie. Keep everything else close to the body — a slim sandal rather than a chunky one, a small bag, hair up or pulled back. A defined shoulder or a V-neckline also helps. Left loose, a kaftan is meant to read relaxed, which is right for the beach and less so for dinner.