A kaftan, also spelled caftan, is a long garment with wide sleeves that dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, located between the countries of Iraq and Iran. These Persian, robe-like garments also became popular in countries such as Russia and Morocco. Their patterns and colors are usually vivid and detailed. They are a vacation fashion staple that began being considered fashionable in western countries since the 1960s and '70s. That being said, kaftans have found their way back to the fashion scene in recent years (although we cannot say they were ever out of fashion) and are becoming increasingly more popular, pleasing the taste of both women that wish for classy and chic formal outfits and those that are drawn into more casual appearances; yet, do not want to look like a tomboy.

Short, belted versions of the traditionally calf- or ankle-length kaftan can look elegant and interesting in printed silk worn over flowing evening pants. Longer ones make excellent swimsuit cover-ups and are often seen poolside at tropical resorts. Their casual, free-style look suits sandals and open-toe shoes, and they are also worn as lounge and patio wear with house slippers. Some are elaborately beaded and designed as fashionable evening dresses.

A kaftan may be open down the front and come with a self-tie belt, or it may feature a zipper closure. Some voluminous garments have a wide neck and are designed as pull-overs. In general, petite people look best in a style that is closer to knee-length and is body-skimming. If it is too wide or long, shorter people tend to appear even shorter. Taller, thinner figures may be flattered by longer, flowing ones. The neckline of this garment may be round, square, or v-shaped. People with oval face shapes are likely to be flattered by kaftans with any type of neckline, while those with a square jawline may look best in a round neck. Rounded or full face shapes tend to look best in a v-neckline.