Kaftan and caftan are two spellings of the same name, used for garments that vary across cultures and settings. The kimono belongs to a distinct Japanese tradition. When shopping for contemporary clothing, look beyond the name: a loose dress, wrap front, tie belt and open jacket serve different purposes.
1. Kaftan and caftan: spelling does not determine the cut
The spelling alone cannot tell you the fabric, length or level of formality. Caftans have taken different forms across places and periods. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, holds an early caftan with an opening at the front. The word is not limited to a summer dress pulled over the head.
In contemporary boho clothing, kaftan often means a loose dress with little shaping at the waist. Sleeves, necklines, openings and finishes still vary. “Maxi dress” mainly describes length, so a maxi can be loose or fitted; it is not the opposite of a kaftan.
Use the description and photographs to understand the actual garment. A change from k to c is not a reliable way to distinguish two styles.
2. A Japanese kimono and a kimono-inspired garment
The Japanese kimono is a wrap garment associated with a sash called an obi. Its history and uses extend beyond ceremonial clothing, as the Victoria and Albert Museum explains. It should not be reduced to an open jacket worn over an outfit.
Contemporary shops also use “kimono” for jackets, open-front layers and belted loungewear inspired by its form. At L’Atelier de Sonja, inspiration and place of manufacture are separate facts: Sonja designs the garments, and a partner workshop in Pushkar, India, makes them. These are not traditional kimonos made in Japan.
An open front and overlapping panels do not offer the same coverage. If you intend to wear a piece closed, check the overlap and the size guidance for that model.
3. A loose dress: the blue kaftan with ochre motifs
This long kaftan has a V-neckline, wide sleeves, tasseled ties and side slits. Large botanical motifs in ochre and mustard yellow sit on a deep-blue background. It illustrates a loose dress without a fixed point of definition at the waist.
L’Atelier de Sonja · A loose cut without a shirred waist; the seated position also shows the opening created by the side slit.View the model and its size guide
The listing states 70% silk and 30% rayon, with one size covering S–XXL according to its chart. The French listing gives 36–50 FR. These are model-specific indications, not a universal international size conversion. Check your measurements, the neckline and the slits before deciding how much coverage you need.
For an easy outfit, try sandals and a favourite piece of jewellery. That is a suggestion rather than a rule: choosing a print does not mean you must avoid other details.
4. A belted wrap: the black botanical-print kimono
This long kimono comes with pale botanical motifs on a black background and a belt that ties at the waist. Presented as loungewear, it lets you adjust the wrap at the front. A slip or soft separates underneath make a simple starting point.
L’Atelier de Sonja · The belt adjusts the wrap at the front; check the overlap both standing and seated.View the model and its size guide
The composition is listed as 70% silk and 30% rayon. Its size ranges are 36–46 FR / S–XL for one size, and 48–56 FR / XL–XXXL for plus size. These differ from the kaftan’s ranges: do not transfer a size label automatically from one garment family to another.
For a closed fit, check that the panels still overlap comfortably when you sit. Wearing it open changes the fit and coverage, but does not remove the need to consult the guide.
5. Which one suits the way you want to dress?
You want a loose dress
Start by looking at the kaftan’s construction. Check opacity, openings and length instead of assuming every kaftan provides enough coverage to be worn alone in every setting.
You want a wrap or a layer
Explore the Kimono collection, distinguishing open jackets from belted styles. The black botanical-print kimono is an example of long loungewear; it does not represent every cut in the collection.
You are deciding by body shape
Compare shoulder, bust and hip measurements and the room in the sleeves. Choose a freer line or waist definition according to your preferences. Neither age nor a body-shape category can choose the best garment for you.
Fabric matters too. The sari silk in these two examples is a blend, not pure silk. The fabric and making FAQ describes newly made cloth using recycled silk fibres, rather than previously worn saris. Follow each product’s care instructions rather than applying one washing rule to everything described as silk.
Frequently asked questions
Are kaftan and caftan the same?
They are alternative spellings of the same name. They do not define separate fabric or cut categories; cultural context and the particular garment still matter.
Is a kimono always a jacket?
No. A traditional Japanese kimono is a garment in its own right. Contemporary fashion also uses the name for jackets and loungewear inspired by its shape.
Does one size mean one size fits everyone?
No. Every model has measurement limits. The blue kaftan with ochre motifs and the black botanical-print kimono have different size ranges, so consult their individual guides.
Can I give a kaftan without knowing the recipient’s size?
It is better to know the relevant measurements or ask for advice. A loose cut may make choosing easier, but cannot guarantee fit. Check the returns conditions; change-of-mind returns are not advertised as free.
Once you have chosen a cut, find outfit inspiration in our nine ideas for wearing a silk kimono.
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Plus-size boho dresses: choosing a cut for your shape