The History of the Kaftan
The Kaftan’s Cultural Legacy and Fashion Evolution
Princess Grace of Monaco wears a Pucci kaftan in Monte Carlo. Getty Images.
The kaftan is one of fashion’s most enduring garments, with origins tracing back to Mesopotamia and Persia before spreading across Central Asia and the Middle East along the Silk Roads. UNESCO notes that it was worn by both men and women and quickly took on regional variations, becoming a symbol of prestige in the Ottoman Empire where sultans and dignitaries were gifted elaborately decorated versions. Over centuries, the kaftan adapted to climates, cultures, and tastes, proving its versatility and timeless appeal.
By the early 20th century, designers such as Paul Poiret introduced robe‑like silhouettes to Western couture, paving the way for the kaftan’s entry into high fashion. Its true renaissance came in the 1960s and 70s, when it was embraced by hippies and bohemians as a symbol of freedom and individuality. This countercultural adoption soon influenced luxury houses: Yves Saint Laurent reinterpreted the kaftan with bold prints, Emilio Pucci added psychedelic colours and geometric patterns, and Pierre Cardin experimented with futuristic cuts. Hollywood icons including Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, and Joan Collins wore these designs, cementing the kaftan’s reputation as both bohemian and glamorous.
Today, the kaftan continues to evolve, and Holland Street is at the forefront of its reinvention. Founded in Britain, the brand creates luxury printed silk kaftans, kimonos, robes, and interior linens, each piece beginning with a hand‑drawn sketch and transformed into engineered prints that flatter the body and flow with movement. Their collections include full‑length kaftans for statement dressing and shorter versions designed to slip easily over leggings or jeans, making them versatile for everyday wear. By blending heritage with contemporary artistry, Holland Street captures the zeitgeist of modern fashion, proving that the kaftan is not just a garment but a cultural artifact continually reimagined for the future.
