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The Art of the Caftan: How to Style Moroccan Elegance for Any Occasion

By Red City Craft | Style & Fashion

The Art of the Caftan: How to Style Moroccan Elegance for Any Occasion

By Red City Craft | Style & Fashion

It is the only garment in history that has been worn by Ottoman Sultans, 1970s rock stars, and modern royalty alike. The Moroccan Caftan (or Kaftan) is not just a dress; it is a mood. It says, "I am comfortable, but I am also the most elegant person in the room."

But for the uninitiated, the volume of fabric and the intricacy of the embroidery (Sfifa) can be intimidating. Do I wear a belt? What shoes work best? Can I wear it to a Western wedding?

At Red City Craft, we believe every woman deserves a "Queen Moment." Here is your ultimate guide to styling our pieces from Marrakech to Manhattan.

1. The Winter Gala: Velvet is King

When the temperature drops, nothing screams luxury like Velour (Velvet). The heavy fabric drapes beautifully, hiding any lines and creating a regal silhouette.

The Look: Choose a rich jewel tone. In Moroccan culture, colors have meaning:

  • Emerald Green: The traditional choice for Henna parties (symbolizing life and luck).

  • Royal Burgundy: The power color. Perfect for Christmas dinners or romantic evening galas.

  • Sapphire Blue: A bold, modern statement that looks incredible in flash photography.

How to Style It:

  • The Belt: Essential. Use a gold or silver metal belt (Mdama) or a stiff fabric belt to cinch the waist. Velvet is heavy; without a belt, you lose your shape.

  • The Shoes: Pointed-toe metallic heels (Gold or Silver).

  • The Hair: An elegant updo to show off the embroidery on the neckline.

Shop the Look: Our best-selling Velvet Caftan Collection is hand-stitched by Maalems and available in 4 Royal colors.

2. The Resort Edit: Linen & Silk

For warmer months, leave the velvet at home. You want movement and breathability. The Gandoura (a short-sleeved, lighter caftan) or a Silk/Crepe Caftan is the ultimate resort hack. It takes up zero space in your suitcase but looks infinitely chicer than a t-shirt dress.

The Look: Opt for earthy tones—Cream, Terracotta, or Sage Green.

How to Style It:

  • The Belt: Skip it. Let the fabric flow loose for that "effortless" Tulum/Marrakech vibe.

  • The Shoes: Leather slides or wedges.

  • The Jewelery: Layered gold necklaces and oversized sunglasses.

Shop the Gandoura & Silk/Crepe Kaftan collection

3. The Modern Mix: Using the "Open" Caftan

The Open Front Caftan (often called a Djellaba or Kimono styling) is the most versatile piece you can own. Think of it as a luxury "Duster Coat."

The Look: Take a traditional Open Caftan and wear it over Western clothes.

How to Style It:

  • Daytime: Wear it over a white t-shirt and high-waisted vintage jeans.

  • Nighttime: Wear it over a black slip dress.

  • Why it Works: It adds instant texture and drama to a boring outfit.

Shop the Open front Kaftan

4. The Rules of Accessories

The Belt (Mdama)

  • Rule: If the Caftan has heavy embroidery down the center, you usually belt it.

  • Hack: Don't have a traditional metal belt? A wide leather corset belt works perfectly for a modern "Boho" twist.

The Jewelry

  • Moroccan embroidery often uses Gold or Silver thread (Sqalli).

  • Rule: Match your jewelry metal to the embroidery. If your Caftan has Gold Sfifa, wear Gold earrings.

The Length

  • A traditional Takchita touches the floor.

  • Modern Rule: It should hover 1 inch off the ground with shoes on. You shouldn't be tripping over it, but it shouldn't show your ankles.

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