The kaftan
The caftan, or kaftan, is an ancient garment, likely originating in Mesopotamia. Its name comes from the Arabic “qaftan,” and its use is recorded in many Arab countries.
Unlike in other Arab nations, in Turkey, this type of dress is always adorned with sumptuous metal belts, worn tightly around the waist and often embellished with studs or tassels. The rose, the cypress, and the broader concept of a flower garden allude to the Islamic paradise. The sinuous style and the absence of animal motifs distinguish Turkish kaftans from those of other Islamic cultures, which are characterized by geometric decorations, arabesques, or symbolic animals. The preference for floral elements in Turkish kaftans stems from ongoing trade and diplomatic exchanges with Western countries.