In The Times Style Edit: Kaftans for a Modern London Summer
Spring is in the air!
After a winter that felt like it might never end, London is finally beginning to exhale. The light is shifting, the air is softening, and as March approaches, there’s a quiet optimism that this might be the year summer arrives early — and stays. With spring just around the corner, wardrobes across the city are already preparing for long, warm days and the kind of sunshine that turns pavements into catwalks.
And if there’s one piece that defines the mood of Summer 2026, it’s the kaftan — effortless, expressive, and perfectly suited to the new rhythm of London living. No longer reserved for holidays, the modern kaftan has become a city staple, worn from brunch in Notting Hill to late‑evening drinks on a Shoreditch rooftop.
Few brands capture this shift better than Holland Street, the London‑born label known for its art‑driven prints and sculptural silhouettes.
This season’s kaftan is all about ease with intention — fluid shapes, bold prints, and pieces that move with you. As the city leans into a more relaxed, sun‑seeking summer, the kaftan has become the garment that bridges comfort and glamour.
How Londoners Are Wearing Kaftans This Year
With minimalist leather sandals for a Marylebone market morning,
With bold jewellery for rooftop drinks at The Standard,
With a structured blazer for a modern take on summer tailoring,
With a woven tote for weekend escapes to West Whittering
While Holland Street leads the way in British‑designed resortwear, Net‑a‑Porter’s summer edit offers a few standout alternatives:
Missoni Crochet‑Knit Kaftan
A perennial favourite, instantly recognisable with its zig‑zag patterning — a bohemian classic for those who love colour and texture.
Zimmermann Silk‑Blend Kaftan
Romantic, floaty, and perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to look polished without trying too hard.
These pieces offer a different aesthetic — more global luxury than London‑crafted artistry — but they sit beautifully alongside Holland Street’s bold, expressive approach.
