Effortless Caftan Dress
All it takes is 3 seams to sew this Effortless Caftan Dress! Perfect for summer, this breezy dress transitions well from day to night. This simple dress pattern can also be made in any length. Whether you want a trendy floor-length summer dress or an airy knee-length, it's up to you.
Dress it up or dress it down. With the right accessories, this dress is perfect for a night on the town. Say hello to summer with a brand new addition to your warm weather wardrobe.
Project TypeMake a Project
Time to CompleteIn an evening
Sewn byMachine
For more dress patterns, check out the 75+ Dress Patterns for Sewing collection and for more maxi dresses, see 29 Long Dresses for Summer, Women's Maxi Dresses, and Skirts.
Origins of the Caftan
While checking out this caftan sewing pattern, you may be surprised to learn that a caftan is part of early Middle Eastern fashion. A caftan, also spelled as kaftan, is a type of robe or tunic usually worn as an overcoat flowing to down to the ankles and covering the length of the arms. Traditional caftans are made from wool, cashmere, or silk and worn with a sash. The eastern dress is said to have originated in Mesopotamia thousands of years ago, which is why the caftan is a common part of Middle Eastern dress. During the reign of the Ottoman Empire, sultans wore caftans as a sign of royalty and status. This style made its way over to West Africa, worn by both women and men as formal attire. Now that you know this style was worn by royalty, you too can be a sultana by making this beautiful dress.
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Tricia108
May 19, 2017
Caftans always remind me of my mother. I used to make a lot of them for her. They were loose fitting and comfortable. I have a dress form so this pattern will be easy to adjust once I start the draping of the fabric. Not crazy about the neck edge in the pattern so I will finish that a bit differently. All in all a good pattern and one that will be used. I wear a lot of dresses in the summer and even it will be good in the winter with a soft wool fabric. Thank you.
Cheryl E
Dec 17, 2016
This 3-seam caftan is perfect for just about anyone. I would finish the neck edge rather than leave it raw, even if it didnt tend to unravel. The simple flow-y dress does look best if there is shirring at the waistline. Best of all, no formal pattern needed so the dress sews up quickly.
Daughter of Light
Oct 16, 2016
I have to confess that it's been awhile since I've done anything but mend. This looks very comfortable. I've bought a gorgeous shade of solid purple polyester yard goods and I'm looking forward to sitting down to sew it up. Thanks for providing the origins of the caftan. That's sooo cool-it'll be like wearing a piece of history!
marielalonso 74104 29
Aug 02, 2014
I plan to make this dress as soon as I can buy the fabric to do it. Did you have any advice of where I can buy good fabfic at a decent price?? Thank you, Maria Alonso, from Binghamton, New York
syvananda 7987193
Aug 18, 2013
I cannot access the pattern, I am told that the webpage is no longer available.
AllFreeSewing Edit or AR
Aug 19, 2013
It looks like the image is temporarily unavailable when you try and open this link. When you scroll down, though, you'll find the instructions :)
penster47
Apr 18, 2013
Love it, but you really should mention that when you cut the neck out, you should reinforce the shoulder seams so it won't come undone. I have some yellow jersey that I am totally going to make one of these to wear around the house.
angelmommy02
Dec 18, 2012
I just got my first sewing machine Saturday and was looking for something super easy for my first project and I think this will be awesome to make! Plus, I love this style of dress. I just wonder how a jersey material would work? Any hints or tips you can give a beginner who has no idea what she's doing? Lol
egc707 0034375
Jun 23, 2012
This was by far the easiest dress I have ever sewn. I have tried various patterns from this website. The directions are extremely clear and easy to follow! Thank you, Ellon
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