I own 3 caftans & love them all. They are simply the most comfortable garments ever invented!
Photo Credit: Instructables
You will stay cool in a caftan unless you make it from heavy fabric. I prefer a smooth cotton in an interesting pattern. The air flows all around you when you are wearing a caftan because it is supposed to fit you loosely. If you are hot when you come home from your job or wherever, slip into a caftan & you will feel so much cooler and relaxed!
It’s also great as a swimsuit cover up (make it as short or long as you like).
This is a good project for someone just beginning to sew. It’s only straight sewing & almost no fitting at all.
Men can wear caftans too & I think they look great in stripes or bold patterns. If you want to make some for colder weather just use a thin to medium weight fleece.
If you are not sure whether you will like it or not, you can make a practice caftan from an old sheet. If you don’t have an old sheet, get one for about $3 at GoodWill, etc. You can make any adjustments on the sheet & then use it as your pattern if you like. Or keep it to wear as a nightshirt. You can buy sewing patterns to make a caftan, but it’s really not necessary.
Click here for a free pattern at Instructables and check out some of the other “ibles” there for various styles of caftans!
Maggie says
SB, they are really comfy! Nothing like it for relaxing on a weekend! I made one for my husband from fleece and he loves it.
SB @ One Cent At A Time says
My Mom has a liking for caftans. She used to sew on her own. It looks good on men too as you said.
Maggie@SquarePennies says
Some people really like a caftan made of 100% cotton gauze or crinkle gauze for maximum coolness. I prefer a smooth fabric.