With winter finally wrapping up its last traces of cold temperatures, my spring wardrobe is finally making an appearance. The promise of sunny days and warm weather makes me look forward to minimal layers, lighter fabrics, and brighter colors. With that said, I prefer effortless laid back looks because once it really gets hot I want to be comfortable. The perfect all-around piece that I can wear to have all those features would have to be the timeless and iconic garment: the kaftan.

Simone D’Aillencourt in Pucci for Vogue, 1967. Photography by Henry Clarke.

The kaftan (also spelled caftan) is a lightweight, loose-fitting, bat-wing long tunic that has been associated for thousands of years with Mesopotamian culture. It debuted into western high fashion in the 1950’s by designers Christian Dior and Cristóbal Balenciaga as shapeless loose robes and gowns. In the 60’s and 70’s it exploded during the hippie movement with its colorful and ethnic patterns by Oscar de la Renta, Emilio Pucci, and other well-known designers. Celebrities and socialites such as Elizabeth Taylor, Diana Vreeland, and Bianca Jagger also helped popularize the kaftan into an effortless elegance and allure that defined the era.

The kaftan is so simple that it doesn’t need to be styled so heavily, especially if it’s printed. It can be worn over a bikini at the beach, lightweight pants, or simply as a dress with a simple sandal. The kaftan and matching pant that I am wearing is from H&M’s 2015 Spring/Summer Studio Collection. The sheer print is a statement itself so I used minimal jewelry to accessorize my look. I chose a geometric shaped choker to compliment the gold cactus tinsel in the print and stacked woven bracelets mixed with gold bangles to accent my wrists. I also wore this set with python leather mules to match the eccentric tropical desert influence of the print.

Kaftans are very versatile and flattering on all women. Styling is so simple and it will easily give you an effortless and glamorous look for the warmer weather. It also provides maximum comfort for the sweltering summer or a relaxing vacation. Most of the H&M Studio collection pieces that I am wearing are sold out but there are still some selections left on their website here. Head to Viva la Jazz Style for links to similar looks!

Jazmine

Photography: Kathryn Woodruff

Location: Hillsmere Beach, Annapolis, MD