Kaftans for Every Hour of Summer

Cristiano Marcheli Kaftan, Janesso Leone Hat, Celine Sunglasses (old, similar here and here)

There is no piece I return to more in summer than a kaftan. I wear one at home while working, pack one for every trip, and love knowing it can go from a morning by the pool to dinner later that evening without missing a beat. It has the breezy appeal of a cover-up, but the right version feels every bit as worthy of a reservation.

Natalie Martin Dress

Naturally, it’s the color and pattern that make one kaftan stand out to me over another. An all-over palm print, graphic stripe, richly colored paisley, saturated silk, or fringe that adds movement gives an otherwise casual silhouette a sense of occasion. Worn with a wide-brim hat and flat sandals, it’s perfect for an afternoon in the sun, and once it’s time to head to sunset cocktails, a sculptural earring, layered necklace, or smaller bag carries it beautifully into the evening.