One of the countless reasons we spend our days dreaming about the beach is those little flirty coverups that let us flaunt a whole lotta leg without feeling like we might get a ticket for indecent exposure. Sure, you could stroll the ivory shoreline in your go-to frayed denim cutoffs, but why not turn up the glam factor in one of the season’s new kaftans? Traditionally a floor-length garment of Middle Eastern descent with wide, billowy sleeves, today’s kaftans come in all lengths and can easily cross over from the shoreline to the sidewalk! Better yet, designers have recently stepped outside the bohemian box and are offering kaftans to fit every Chictopian’s style. We even found one edgy enough to make your ol’ reliable cutoffs jealous…
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Brights
On the beach…
Because too many layers and accessories at the beach can make you look overdone, it’s best to wear one standout piece. This bright buffalo plaid print number from Turk + Taylor just makes us smile, plain and simple. And the fact that it’s made entirely of organic and recycled materials will have us grinning all summer. You’ll really be lighting up the shoreline if you pair this kaftan with neutral sandals like these from Aldo Dainty little charm necklaces from Forever21 a little sparkle, but won’t weigh you down when you’re splashing around.
On the street…
Ground vibrant hues with all black accessories like Chictopian Rahpunen did with her bright coral kaftan. We’re in awe of Meganroses’s clever street styling of her bold kaftan. Simply tucking the kaftan into a pair of fitted shorts creates a sexy silhouette that feels put together enough for dinner with friends.
Boho
On the beach…
Bohemian inspired pieces feel right at home on the beach (you’ll already have the beach-y waves in your hair to complement the look!). We can’t stop imagining flouncing around gathering sea shells in this ruffled rose print number from ASOS To add some contrast, opt for metallic sandals instead of hippie-esque gladiators. We’re digging the price of these from Target A floppy wide-brimmed hat adds sun protection and an extra feminine touch.
On the streets…
You can easily transform from laid-back bohemian to midnight dancing queen without looking like you stepped right off the beach. Glam things up by adding sharp extras to this otherwise flow-y look. We love how Chictopian Kimrib23 topped off her patterned kaftan with a crisp flat brimmed hat and simple black ankle booties.
Edgy
On the beach…
Toughen up your skimpy bikini with a little something edgy. This Love Sam jewel trim kaftan has an acid wash feel that contrasts perfectly with the garment’s ethereal cut. Plus, it’s one of Rachel Zoe’s (the unofficial queen of kaftans) top picks from Piperlime! Add some charcoal gladiators and a stack of bangles in a bright hue for a pop of color (you are at the beach, after all) like these zig zag ones from TopShop and you’re good to go!
On the street…
Get playful with an edgy print by adding fun bright accessories. Chictopian Stylepantry hit the nail on the head by adding a vibrant yellow turban to her cheetah maxi-dress. One of the fastest ways to kick your kaftan into overtime is by cinching it with a solid color belt. It will instantly make the look more proper and fool everyone into thinking it’s actually a dress and not just a cover up!
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Cover image by Nathaniel Goldberg for W Magazine
