Traditional Moroccan clothing style, the moroccan kaftan dress has taken a fairly important place in the field of women fashion. Indeed, this one does not cease attracting the covetousness of the professional and amateur designers. To give you more details about the kaftan. Let’s see through this article all you need to know about this mode of dress and its place in the Moroccan tradition.
Before becoming one of the traditional Moroccan clothes, the caftan was a little closer to the costumes of the Ottoman Empire. Moreover, it is known as the derivative of these famous clothes. The history wants that this type of fabric is worn by men before being transmitted to women. It should be recognized that the latter wear it so well that they can only be resplendent.
Add to that, the caftan was the privileged dress of the nobles before being worn by everyone. Note that it is from the eleventh century that Moroccans have decided to make the caftan their traditional and authentic clothing. On the other hand, it is worn by women only from the nineteenth century. Moreover, the relations of Morocco with France and China gave birth to the style of embroidery “ntaà” which lets appear gold threads.
During the 50s, the caftan knows other developments with the appearance of the “T” cut. The last big evolutions arrive in the 80’s to let appear the sheath dresses as well as the silk jerseys.
On the traditional level, the Moroccan kaftan has long been used by men. However, this has not prevented the transmission to women. On the other hand, this garment was imposed in the imperial cities of the kingdom as Rabat, Salé or Fez through Chief Chaouen.
Apart from being worn by many ceremonies, the caftan is often worn for weddings. The tradition is that a woman who gets married must change her caftan seven times throughout the evening. Add to that, it can be combined with a Negafa or Ziana if the situation calls for it. In any case, the caftan has evolved well in the last few years without leaving its traditional side.
Moreover, the evolutions have had an effect on the way the caftan is worn. This will leave you with a wide choice on the model that suits you.
What about its place in the fashion world
It must be admitted that Moroccan designers have spared no effort to give the caftan a place on the international scene. Thus, many fashion houses have made many efforts to attract the covetousness. In other words, modern touches have been added to the new models. You could then come across models that no longer completely hide the body as well as the curves.
Now, the creation of this garment no longer depends solely on the talent or gift of the designer. It must also take into account the mood of the moment! For more visibility, designers have worked hard to make a place in the biggest cities of the fashion world! This style of clothing has already its place in Paris and Madrid for the happiness of professionals, clothing wholesalers and amateurs.
Finally, we must recognize that the kaftan dress is far from being an ordinary style of dress. You could take advantage of every opportunity to put your body forward while ensuring the fusion with the body. Moroccan women know exactly what to expect. Note that it can also be worn by the rest of the world.
There are three main criteria to consider before choosing a caftan. These are: the size, the style and the color. These elements will help you choose the oriental dress that suits you. The size of your Moroccan caftan will be correct as long as you are sure of the measurements, the most correct.
Indeed, the measurements determine the comfort inside the dress. If you are interested in a smaller caftan, it will not enhance your figure, as it will swell and bumps will be visible. And if you fall for a larger size, the natural touch will no longer be evident, which will spoil the aesthetic. Moreover, a size that does not fit your figure will only make you feel uncomfortable. It is important to feel comfortable in the clothes you wear, otherwise it will ruin your whole day. It is also important to take into account the length of your caftan, find one that is not too short or too long. It is not advisable to change the length of the caftan as it will transform its cut and the final result will not be really correct. However, you can choose a long caftan, as it is still elegant. However, the length should not exceed a certain limit.
The fashion of the caftan has grown increasingly. Indeed, the kaftan can be worn in several ways. Some women prefer to wear it with a hijab, others with rhinestones and beautiful pearls at parties. You can also wear the caftan with a skirt to get a chic look. For a city outing, opt for a more discreet skirt, which will always highlight your caftan. For a sleeveless caftan, you can wear it in summer, as light as a tank top. However, avoid wearing it in winter. If you have full arms, it is better not to choose the sleeveless caftan. You should also know that there is a caftan worked at the bust level, perfect for those who have small breasts. This style will slightly alter the appearance of your chest and give it more volume.
A traditional garment that has undergone many touches and modifications, the caftan offers everyone a much better way to dress. The Moroccan caftan dress can also be put on with a wide belt, which allows you to get a flat stomach effect. There are also lace caftan dresses that are perfect for people with a slim figure. Indeed, the lace adds volume of thickness to the whole. As for the style of caftan, your choice will be based on your desires and in accordance with your personality, your age and your appearance. If it is for an evening, you can choose a dress among the oriental ceremony dresses. And the color is up to you too. However, you have to match it with your hair color, complexion and eyes. It is recommended to choose a caftan of discreet, pastel color. A nice caftan is perfect for all kinds of ceremonies. And for a great look, you need the right size and color. You can also wear a Moroccan caftan in tulle, a very chic fabric. This will combine the modern look with the traditional. The embroidered caftan is also not bad for a wedding dress, but you should choose the embroidery in gold and silver thread to bring out the brightness of the face.
You have a limited budget for your oriental wedding? You want to customize the Moroccan caftan of your dreams? Make the creation of your oriental dress by your own means. Here are some tips on how to sew a caftan by hand. You will find tutorials as well as tips on how to decorate your traditional Moroccan garment for 100% customization.
The choice of fabrics is important because it alone can bring a higher level of quality to your caftan. Prefer heavy and flexible fabrics such as velvet or silk brocade, shantung or doupion. Choose sfifas and braids that match the tone of your fabric. You will also need a sewing pattern. And finally, sewing tools and a sewing machine are two essential items.
Choose the sewing pattern for your Moroccan caftan according to your sewing experience. We have selected three different sewing patterns for you to make your first caftan by yourself. The level is for beginners. You will easily make your first Moroccan dress without the help of others. You will then be able to personalize its finish with your own ornaments and the embroidery of your choice.
At their origins, the caftans were worn during great ceremonies and the principle still applies today. Men and women could wear this long dress during different Islamic ceremonies. With the adoption of this high fashion dress by different cultures, many women have adopted the caftan as an evening dress.
As a cocktail dress or a ball gown, the caftan only accentuates femininity. Cut in silk or satin, all women will find their pleasure in the wide range of models available. Crossed, straight, plain, the rhinestones that adorn the caftan with its wide belt will only enhance the size of any woman.
With the apogee of theme parties or simply to honor the hosts, the caftan is an ideal ball gown. You’ll only be adopting the trend if you attend oriental or African parties.
Not surprisingly, the white caftan is ideal as a wedding dress. It is only respectful and natural that the bride opts for this tunic dress image of high fashion in respect of her Muslim cultures. At present, all the women of the four corners of the globe let themselves be tempted to leave a little of the lot and to leave on an oriental or Moroccan marriage worthy of this name.
On the essential base of a long dress and golden or silver embroidery, a train is undeniably added to the caftan of the bride. With a slight neckline, this traditional dress will not lose any of its value with the adornments that should go with it. To bring luck to the newlyweds, a decoration with the hand of Fatma will be a small more in this silky dress.
Obviously, the caftan is ideal as a wedding dress, but designers have gone above and beyond by creating a maxi dress for the audience. Not to steal the bride’s thunder, but bridesmaids can also indulge in this traditional dress. Fashioned from light colored Duchesse satin, the caftan for these bridesmaids combines elegance, simplicity, luxury and respect for tradition with bare shoulders.
In the wake, the great ladies of the audience are free to adorn themselves with elegance in traditional dress. In a straight or slightly flared cut, many women find themselves easily beautiful in this luxury dress. In other styles, two-piece caftans also reflect elegance.
In maxi dress or short dress, the caftan is also very well worn in everyday life in an elegant simplicity. The Kabyle dress in brocade reflects the cheerfulness with all the colors it gives off.
If this style would rather meet the inclinations of Western women, Muslim women can lend themselves without having to abandon their hijab. They will be able to leave their Jilbab for a short time in favor of a new look just as traditional. This kind of style would be ideal for going to work.
In the process, designers will never cease to amaze us with the creation of women’s clothing. Based on the short and loose model, the shawl caftans guarantee total comfort. Shawl caftans made of muslin go well with leggings and even with jeans. This set would look great on weekends. You will exude elegance while going shopping!
It goes without saying that loose and light dresses are the best to ensure comfort and lightness when staying at home. This is why Moroccans have opted for Djellabas. Nevertheless, caftans are also so practical. They would even be ideal to receive guests at home with an emphasis on respect for tradition.
In brocade or leopard print, the caftan remains an ideal combination of exoticism and originality. With this touch of casual and glamorous, the handmade work will only be more highlighted.
The latest trends have made the caftan one of the most fashionable summer dresses. By its simplicity and lightness, the caftans are also very well worn at the beach and why not going to the pool. In crepe or lace, summer caftans connote purity with their almost innocent, but very elegant embroidery.
Often short, the beach caftans also exist in long version transparent enough without falling into vulgarity. Their slight cleavage will enhance the style of your bathing suit.
Worn during major ceremonies, as a wedding dress, in the city or in casual mode, the caftan adapts to all lifestyles and all body types. In maxi dress, short or shawl, each woman and damsel will find a style that suits her. Nevertheless, in the respect of the traditions, the style lacks completeness without the adornments that go with it.
After wearing this lush princess dress, you may wonder how to restore it to its original cleanliness without damaging the rhinestones and embroidery. No need to worry a bit more, you will have no trouble washing this maxi dress despite its delicacy and fragile appearance.
But first, you should know what fabric your caftan is made of. After that, you’ll be able to wash it without too much difficulty. An important tip: consider washing your caftan the day after the henna party or any other ceremony. The dirt will be less stubborn.
Before proceeding to the actual washing of this traditional dress, it is advisable to first remove the localized stains. This will allow you to give the caftan an even wash.
To remove stubborn unwanted stains, use a damp cloth, barely moistened with baking soda. Gently dab on the stains and then run the wet cloth over them again. Repeat until the stain is completely gone. Baking soda is a simple example, but you can use other products depending on the nature of the stain.
Caftan or ordinary dress, chiffon and silk satin or Duchess Satin garments are usually hand washed. It’s all the more delicate with this beaded dress so put aside your laziness and spend some time in the tub.
If you insist on putting this chiffon or satin princess dress in the machine, it will greatly deteriorate. Lace dresses can also be hand washed. To avoid losing the pleats of your caftan, hand washing seems to be the most suitable.
For the actual washing, you can choose between the bathtub and the sink. A large bowl will do just as well too. Fill the container with lukewarm water and add some liquid detergent for delicate laundry or simply your usual shampoo. For satin caftans or takchitas, use special wool detergent.
Stir well to obtain a soapy water. Do not use bleach! As with the sari, immerse the caftan in the foamy water and bring light frictions on the maxi dress or the kabyle dress. Light rubbing with your fingertips is enough to avoid unraveling the seams. You didn’t even think about filling your party dress with mud! We hope so. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water until the water becomes clear.
After hand or machine washing, wring out your ceremonial dress between two sponge towels. It is not advisable to twist it as it may leave folds. Then hang your caftan on an inflatable hanger.
Avoid iron or wooden hangers that may discolor and leave marks on your beautiful dress. Hang the caftan on a hanger indoors, away from direct sunlight. As you probably know, the sun will fade the fabric. Hang it over the bathtub and make sure the room is well ventilated.
Velvet, brocade and viscose caftans can be machine washed, as can two-pieces. Silk crepe and organza are also very resistant and can be washed in the washing machine. You certainly don’t want your gold or silver thread embroidery to come off. To keep your dirty caftan’s trimmings from coming off, put it in a pillowcase. This way, the sequins and crystals will remain unharmed by the rotary motion of the machine.
Then set the machine to 40°C and turn to wool mode. Don’t forget to add the wool detergent. On coarse satin or raw silk fabrics, spray starch before drying. The starch will make them shine again. Continue drying as with hand washing.
Set aside time to wash your caftan. Do not wash it with other clothes at the risk of taking the discoloration of the other clothes. Take a look at it frequently, this beautiful dress deserves all your attention.
As soon as the machine stops, take out your caftan to loosen the various folds and twist marks. Do not leave it in the machine, it will quickly take marks. You will also avoid in the process, to take the smell of moisture.
You finally arrive at the last step: the ironing. Before starting, put in head that it is necessary to have the light hand. For more precaution, use a pattemouille instead of ironing directly on the dress especially if it is made of muslin. Start ironing on slightly wet dresses.
To keep the shine of satin caftans, pass a sponge soaked in vinegar water on the back and continue with a pattemouille. On sequined, beaded or lamé dresses, set the iron to wool for a comfortable low temperature.
For a perfect finish, always start with the lining. When dry, continue with the tulle and finish with the top fabric. Make sure to dry the back of the braided parts. When everything is clean and shiny, put back the laces that you have obviously untied before washing. When everything is finished, put it back on its hanger and put it in the closet.
Cut in high fashion fabrics, the caftan seems difficult to maintain and wash. With a little willpower and care, you can do it and keep the shine and sparkle of your dress. Hand and machine washable, you have all the tips you need to do it brilliantly.
If you are a little reluctant to embark on this fabulous adventure or simply lack the time, leave the work to the professionals. Dry cleaning services are still available. In most cases, fashion houses and boutiques can also provide this service, as an after sales service.
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