Moroccan caftans, vintage collection.
About
Moroccan caftans
Moroccan fashion has always
contained an element of art. From simple stitching to intricate embroidery,
Arabic women have played a role in the creation of their wardrobes. It is an
ancient tradition for groups of Moroccan women to sit around a table and bead
elaborate patterns on exquisite fabrics. It is often not only the work of
one woman on a hand-beaded dress, but also the work of multiple women. Moroccan Clothing then takes on
more than a functional purpose; it becomes the handiwork of a proud
community of women who revere dressmaking and design as an art inherent unto
itself. It becomes an avenue for these Moroccan women to express their artistry,
intelligence, and desires.
Kaftan or caftans has been in fashion for centuries and
can be worn by men and women. They are hand made using luxurious materials
like satins, silk, metallic threads or velvet. In the 16th century, during
the Ottoman Empire sultans and Royalties used to wear luxurious caftans and
today they are still used by Royalties, dignitaries, ambassadors around the
world. You can add belts, sashes and other accessories. It is only after the
1960’s that the caftan made it to the west when the caftans appeared in
Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar and when Yves St Laurent leaving in Morocco get
influenced by the Moroccan caftan and used them for some of his collections.
The caftans can be easily customized to fit any person’s style. There are
many ways to use them: the caftan is very permissive to be worn on the
street on the beach or an evening look one can wear a nice flowing formal
gown that adds a feminine chic look.
In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great
civilizations that found their way to Northwest Africa, such as the Ottomans
and the Turks. What is important in today's Moroccan fashion is the fusion
of modern Western style with the traditional Moroccan style. Moroccan
fashion has been recognized for its style and has garnered a reputation,
winning awards in international fashion shows throughout Europe. This
contemporary style responds to today's Arabic women's needs: authenticity,
sophistication, and fluid lines. Women in the Western world are migrating
towards this contemporary Moroccan fashion as it brings the Old World to
them in a New World elegance and chic style.
Moroccan Fashion is made for those who like to wear informal but elegant
clothing, Elizabeth Taylor is renowned for wearing the Moroccan caftans all
year long.
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Talitha Getty
This iconic photo of Talitha Getty by Patrick Litchfield in the
1960's is so actual. Its bohemian luxe appeal is astonishing.
Talitha Getty was YSL's muse and the late 60's fashion icon. She
was hugely influenced by living in Marrakesh, she would often
wear silk bejeweled traditional Moroccan dresses, full length
embroidered caftans worn open over pants and traditional
Moroccan slippers. Her look is particularly relevant right now,
looking at the Spring Summer collections from the last 40 years
through to Fall collections for 2010 I have seen a lot of middle
eastern influence. Not to mention Nicole Richie, Rachel Zoe,
Kate Moss and more that adopted the 70's boho luxe style. |
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Photo of the Royal Family in traditional Moroccan caftans.
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Moroccan caftans:
The Moroccan Kaftan
transitioned from traditional apparel made from heavy and excessive fabric
to today's sheer, form-fitting, and bare sexy and stylish gowns. The Moroccan khaleeji
(dress), originally adopted from the Gulf area, differs from the traditional
Middle Eastern khaleeji, in that the Moroccan dress has more westernized
arms that are less cumbersome and allow for more natural movement without
excess fabric.
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Fashion legend Yves St. Laurent Fashion designer who was born in
Algeria and lived between Paris and Marrakech( but Mostly in
Marrakech) made the kaftan an elite garment by putting finely
patterned and embroidered versions Kaftans. In the 1960 the caftans
made the covers of Vogue Magazine several times.
However caftans have been worn by royalties as traditional attire
throughout Asia Africa and the Middle East since ancient times. |
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How to wear a caftan the modern way.At home for lounging,
Great for pregnant women.
Over your best La Perla.
Over a bikini on the beach.
Over a pair of skinny jeans.
Or to go to the Opera over fancy pants.
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