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:
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Emerald Green: The traditional choice for Henna parties (symbolizing life and luck).
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Royal Burgundy: The power color. Perfect for Christmas dinners or romantic evening galas.
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Sapphire Blue: A bold, modern statement that looks incredible in flash photography.
How to Style It:
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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.
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The Shoes: Pointed-toe metallic heels (Gold or Silver).
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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:
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The Belt: Skip it. Let the fabric flow loose for that "effortless" Tulum/Marrakech vibe.
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The Shoes: Leather slides or wedges.
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The Jewelery: Layered gold necklaces and oversized sunglasses.
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:
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Daytime: Wear it over a white t-shirt and high-waisted vintage jeans.
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Nighttime: Wear it over a black slip dress.
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Why it Works: It adds instant texture and drama to a boring outfit.
4. The Rules of Accessories
The Belt (Mdama)
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Rule: If the Caftan has heavy embroidery down the center, you usually belt it.
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Hack: Don't have a traditional metal belt? A wide leather corset belt works perfectly for a modern "Boho" twist.
The Jewelry
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Moroccan embroidery often uses Gold or Silver thread (Sqalli).
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Rule: Match your jewelry metal to the embroidery. If your Caftan has Gold Sfifa, wear Gold earrings.
The Length
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A traditional Takchita touches the floor.
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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.
👑 Which Color is Your Vibe?
Choosing the right shade for your event.
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The Emerald Green - For the Traditionalist.
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The Royal Burgundy - For the Romantic.
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The Sapphire Blue - For the Bold.
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The Amethyst Purple - For the Mysterious.
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The classic Black - For the classic
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