SLOW IT DOWN: THE CAFTAN LIFE

Legend has it that Diana Vreeland once pegged the caftan as "fashionable for the beautiful people." We don't know if the garment is so discerning, but it's a lovely-sounding turn of phrase. The caftan (or kaftan) first appeared in Persia at about 600 B.C., so getting nostalgic with it beginning at circa 1960 feels a bit disingenuous — but we're here to review fashion's relationship with the caftan. It’s voluminous shape and heavily-printed nature might render it unappealing, but its often-plunging neckline and side slit detail lend just the right wink.

"I will never forget the first time I went to St. Tropez with my parents and the most glamorous women all wore caftans. A caftan is always chic and effortless - it’s a trend that began in the 1960s and has transcended time. Wear it on the beach with gladiator flat sandals or to a black tie affair with tons of jewels and a topknot!" —Rachel Zoe, designer, stylist and caftan enthusiast.

source: Kerry Pieri www.harpersbazaar.com

Our caftan collection here at PATRICIA brings the look full circle with modern prints and specialty weaves, but the cut - well, classics like this don’t need much tweaking.  Take the Emerson Fry pieces we just got in this week...I can’t stop dreaming of wide, tropical beaches, lazy nights, lounge-y days.  

The caftan is perfect throw on piece for errands around town, lounging at home, wearing with heels for a night out or given as a gift to a new or expecting mom. I’m thinking its also the perfect Valentine’s gift too!

You too?  Well check out this blog on planning your winter getaway. Can’t get away this year? Me either.  So with a cold weekend ahead, I’m going to hunker down in my MIRTH caftan with Jarrett, Stella and Thor. 

Speaking of MIRTH, meet the sisters, above, who founded the company a few years ago:  Erin Breen and Katie McClure.  After a life-changing journey through India, they channeled their substantial energy into the creation of this caftan-centric line.  We are so very excited to get their spring collection in starting next month.

For fast acting relief, try slowing down.” ― Lily Tomlin