The 17 Best Caftan Dresses for 2023

(Image credit: Betina Du Toit)

A traditional garment in several cultures, including Asia and Northern Africa, a caftan can be worked into an everyday wardrobe with ease. The caftan, sometimes spelled "kaftan," has a free-spirited ethos that feels equal parts luxurious and liberating—and and the benefits are twofold when you wear one in the peak of the summer heat. A favorite among fashion icons like André Leon Talley, the Olsens, and Rihanna, we've seen editors, designers, and even politicians opting for the ethereal caftan in place of the ubiquitous sundress. Elizabeth Taylor—often regarded as the caftan queen—loved the glamorous robe silhouette so much, she decided to marry Richard Burton in a tie-dye and embroidered feather version. Invest in a caftan for music festivals, dressy social obligations, or to strut down city streets. Ahead, we've got 17 for you to choose from.

Zara Print Caftan Dress

This knit cold-weather caftan is perfectly suited for a flared jean and ankle boots.

Farm Rio Scarf Caftan

Throw on a strappy heel and a pair of hoops and this is your night out caftan.

Saint Holiday Caftan

This light-as-a-feather dress is crafted from an airy organic cotton fabric, ideal for heat waves or beach days.

Pippa Holt Tie Dye Caftan

Pockets reign in this special tie-dye caftan that's hand-woven on a backstrap loom.

Lem Lem Caftan

This handmade caftan was crafted by local artisans in Ethiopia from lightweight embroidered cotton.

Carolina K Vall Caftan

This floral flowing caftan looks good and does good. As part of Carolina K's Zero Waste collection, it's crafted from what would be otherwise discarded, dead stock fabric.

Muzungu Sisters Cotton Caftan

A statement Ikat print will be right at home on the beach, paired with your favorite swimsuit, or styled alongside a Grecian sandal on city streets.

Petite Plume Stripe Caftan

This simplistic stripe caftan will keep you cool in the thickest of heat waves. Plus, it's machine washable, making it easy to wear on repeat.

Zimmermann Caftan

This knee-length caftan is crafted from a water-absorbing terry fabric, making it the ideal uniform when you're pool- or beach-bound.

Tory Burch Colorblock Caftan

The minimalist silhouette is the perfect canvas for layered necklaces and bangles.

La Vie Style House Caftan

We love this red and white printed caftan for warm weather outings or date night.

Wales Bonner Kingston Striped Wool Caftan Dress

This earth tone maxi-length caftan will be your new go-to. Layer it with gold necklaces and pop on a trendy flatform.

Fil De Vie Dove Embroidered Caftan

Embroidered doves and an elevated silk fabrication makes this elegant caftan a tried-and-true investment for all of your future destination weddings.

Cala de Cruz Striped Caftan

This chic striped caftan will transport you to the beach. Accessorize it with a wicker bag and a bucket hat.

Frances Valentine Stephanie Caftan Dress

There's no need to wear jewelry with this white and blue embroidered caftan dress.

Cult Gaia Tie Dye Caftan

Make a grand entrance with this tie dye effect, floor length caftan.

Everlane Caftan Dress

If you can't go barefoot, pair this laid-back, slightly sheer caftan with a minimalist slide sandal.

TOPICS

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, where she has worked in various roles to ensure the brand's fashion content continues to inform, inspire, and shape the conversation around fashion's ever-evolving landscape. A Missouri School of Journalism graduate, she previously held fashion posts at Condé Nast’s Lucky and Self and covered style and travel for Equinox’s Furthermore blog. Over a decade in the industry, she’s guided shoots with top photographers and stylists from concept to cover. Based in NYC, Sara spends off-duty hours running, browsing the farmer's market, making a roast chicken, and hanging with her husband, dog, and cat. Find her on Instagram at @sarajonewyork.