The kaftan top is not what it used to be. According to Wikipedia, the kaftan has been around for thousands of years and has been worn by several cultures. Over time it has evolved and changed, and today in Australia, Camilla is probably our kaftan queen.
Camilla Frank, the designer for the label Camilla, opened her first boutique in Sydney in 2004, and has a cult following around the world. Her kaftans are now stocked in many countries, including Harrods in London, and they sell for in excess of $500 each. Her kaftans are sought after for her selection of colours and fabrics, and because the prints are unique and fabulous.
Due to their popularity, they are often traded on eBay so savvy owners can keep updating their wardrobe. But even on eBay, the prices can be high enough to make your nose bleed. If only I had that kind of disposable income! So how can we get the Camilla look without the price tag?
I have been looking at some more affordable options, such as this brightly coloured top with white pants from Autograph. What I like about this kaftan is that it is loose-fitting, comes in great summer colours and hides a multitude of sins. And these pants from Autograph have an elastic waist with a cropped leg and are very comfortable and easy to wear. They represent very good value at $40. Needless to say, they are washable and have elastane in their mix to keep their shape.
This vibrant print from Swimwear Galore would look amazing with one side tucked into the waistband of your jeans – what we call a ‘half tuck’ – and would give your jeans a new and updated look. Sometimes we get stuck into thinking that a kaftan can only be worn to the beach. Not any more.
If you prefer the look of a kaftan, but the shape of a shirt with a four-button placket and sleeves that roll up, then this Tangier tunic is for you. This works so well with white pants, but would work just as well with jeans.
I know kaftans are not for everyone, but if you can find a fab print at an affordable price, then they can be a great way to bring some colour into your spring/summer wardrobe, and can be used with jeans, crop pants and even as a beach cover up – whatever you prefer.
Are you a kaftan type of girl? Are you ready to splash out with a bit of colour?
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The essential tote bag
When to bin the bikini?
How to choose the perfect hat
