When summer poolside gatherings call for an outfit that’s both chic and comfortable, kaftans are the ultimate go-to. These breezy, flowy garments embody effortless elegance, making them perfect for lounging by the pool or mingling with friends under the sun. Whether you’re sipping on tropical cocktails, dipping your toes in the water, or soaking up the golden rays, a stylish kaftan allows you to look polished while staying cool and relaxed.
I remember wearing a vibrant turquoise kaftan with gold embroidery to a friend’s poolside brunch last summer. The lightweight fabric felt like a dream against the summer heat, and the loose silhouette made moving around a breeze. Plus, the compliments kept coming—proof that kaftans truly balance style and comfort.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best kaftan styles for summer poolside gatherings, how to accessorize them, and tips for choosing the perfect look for any sunny occasion.
Why Kaftans Are Perfect for Poolside Gatherings (Foundational Concepts)
Kaftans have been a beloved wardrobe staple for centuries, celebrated for their versatility and timeless appeal. Here’s why they’re a top choice for poolside events:
1. Light and Breezy
Made from lightweight fabrics like cotton, chiffon, or silk, kaftans are perfect for hot summer days, keeping you cool and comfortable while looking elegant.
2. Effortlessly Glamorous
With their flowing silhouettes and often intricate designs, kaftans can range from casual to luxurious, making them suitable for any level of poolside chic.
3. Easy to Style
Kaftans work beautifully as a standalone outfit or as a swimwear cover-up. Pair them with the right accessories to transition seamlessly from the pool to a casual lunch or an evening party.
Stylish Kaftan Ideas for Poolside Gatherings
1. Embroidered Cotton Kaftan
- Style: A mid-length white cotton kaftan with colorful floral embroidery along the neckline and sleeves.
- Details: Loose three-quarter sleeves and a tassel tie at the neckline.
- Shoes: Flat leather sandals or espadrilles.
- Accessories: A straw hat and a woven tote bag.
- Why It Works: The embroidery adds a playful pop of color, while the breathable fabric is perfect for sunny days.
2. Sheer Chiffon Kaftan with Metallic Accents
- Style: A floor-length kaftan in sheer chiffon with metallic gold or silver threadwork.
- Details: High side slits and a cinched waist for a flattering silhouette.
- Shoes: Metallic flat sandals or wedge heels.
- Accessories: Oversized sunglasses and gold bangles.
- Why It Works: The metallic accents catch the sunlight beautifully, adding a touch of glamour to your poolside look.
3. Vibrant Printed Kaftan
- Style: A kaftan with bold prints like tropical florals, geometric patterns, or animal prints.
- Details: V-neckline and short sleeves for a relaxed fit.
- Shoes: White slides or beaded flip-flops.
- Accessories: A statement necklace and a colorful crossbody bag.
- Why It Works: The bold print exudes vacation vibes, making it perfect for a festive poolside gathering.
4. Silk Maxi Kaftan
- Style: A luxurious silk kaftan in jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby.
- Details: Batwing sleeves and a flowing, ankle-grazing hemline.
- Shoes: Neutral-toned strappy sandals.
- Accessories: Dangly earrings and a metallic clutch.
- Why It Works: The silky fabric drapes beautifully, creating an elegant look that works for more formal poolside events.
5. Tie-Dye Kaftan Cover-Up
- Style: A short, tie-dye kaftan in summery shades like turquoise, coral, or lime green.
- Details: Drawstring waist and fringed hem for a boho-chic vibe.
- Shoes: Tan gladiator sandals or espadrille slides.
- Accessories: Layered bracelets and a floppy sun hat.
- Why It Works: The playful tie-dye design is trendy yet relaxed, perfect for laid-back pool parties.
6. Lace Kaftan with Swimsuit Peekaboo
- Style: A knee-length lace kaftan in white or pastel hues.
- Details: Scalloped edges and a loose fit to show off your swimsuit underneath.
- Shoes: Barefoot sandals or embellished flip-flops.
- Accessories: A pearl anklet and a straw clutch.
- Why It Works: The lace fabric adds a touch of romance, while the sheer design keeps the look light and summery.
Practical Tips for Styling Kaftans
1. Consider the Occasion
- Opt for cotton or tie-dye kaftans for casual daytime gatherings.
- Choose silk, chiffon, or embroidered styles for more upscale or evening events.
2. Add Layers Sparingly
- Pair your kaftan with a lightweight slip dress if it’s sheer and you want more coverage.
- For cooler evenings, throw on a cropped denim jacket or a lightweight scarf.
3. Embrace Bold Accessories
- Kaftans are simple yet striking, making them the perfect canvas for statement accessories like oversized earrings, chunky bracelets, or layered necklaces.
Picture Gallery
Accessories to Elevate Your Kaftan Look
The right accessories can take your kaftan outfit to the next level. Here are some ideas:
1. Shoes
- Flat Sandals: Leather or embellished sandals add effortless charm.
- Espadrilles: Great for a slightly dressier look that’s still poolside-appropriate.
- Slides: Comfortable and on-trend, perfect for casual gatherings.
2. Bags
- Woven Totes: Ideal for carrying essentials like sunscreen and a book.
- Clutches: Choose a beaded or metallic clutch for more formal events.
- Crossbody Bags: Compact and practical for hands-free mingling.
3. Jewelry
- Earrings: Go bold with dangly earrings or stick to delicate hoops for a minimalist touch.
- Bracelets: Stacked bangles or cuffs add a boho-chic vibe.
- Necklaces: Layered chains or pendant necklaces enhance a V-neck kaftan.
4. Hats and Sunglasses
- Straw Hats: Wide-brimmed hats add a touch of elegance and protect you from the sun.
- Sunglasses: Oversized shades or aviators complement the effortless vibe.
Makeup Tips for a Poolside Glow
Keep your makeup light and natural to complement the breezy aesthetic of kaftans:
- Skin: Use a tinted moisturizer or BB cream with SPF for a dewy look.
- Blush: Apply a coral or peach blush for a sun-kissed glow.
- Eyes: Add waterproof mascara and a touch of shimmer to your eyelids.
- Lips: Opt for a tinted lip balm or gloss in nude or pink shades.
- Highlighter: Use a subtle highlighter on your cheekbones for a radiant finish.
FAQs
1. Can kaftans be worn beyond the pool?
Absolutely! Kaftans transition beautifully from poolside to casual outings. Pair them with tailored pants or add a belt to define your waist for a more polished look.
2. Are kaftans flattering for all body types?
Yes! Kaftans’ loose, flowing silhouettes work well for all shapes and sizes. Look for designs with waist ties or side slits to add definition if desired.
3. How do I keep cool in a kaftan during hot weather?
Choose kaftans made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and opt for shorter styles or those with open sleeves for added ventilation.
4. Can I wear a kaftan as a dress?
Definitely! Many kaftans work as standalone dresses. Just add a slip underneath if the fabric is sheer.
5. What swimsuits pair best with kaftans?
Solid-colored swimsuits or those with simple patterns complement bold or detailed kaftans, while printed swimsuits pair well with solid kaftans.
Conclusion
Kaftans are the epitome of relaxed summer elegance, offering the perfect balance of comfort and style for poolside gatherings. Whether you opt for a breezy embroidered kaftan, a glamorous silk number, or a playful tie-dye design, this versatile garment ensures you’ll look effortlessly chic.
Pair your kaftan with bold accessories, natural makeup, and comfortable shoes to complete the look. Ready to make waves at your next poolside event? Share your favorite kaftan styles in the comments or tag me on social media. Let’s celebrate summer in flowy, fabulous fashion!