They are often mentioned in the same breath, and both are long, flowing and modest. But an abaya and a kaftan do different jobs in your wardrobe, and knowing which is which makes choosing much easier.
The abaya: a layer you wear over your clothes
An abaya is a long outer garment worn over your clothes. Ours are flowing layers you can wear open, over an inner dress, a simple top and trousers or an evening dress, or closed, the way many women wear the Leyla Abaya. Because it sits over what you are wearing, one abaya changes the feel of many outfits.
The kaftan: a complete piece on its own
A kaftan is a full-length garment you wear on its own, usually with wide or flowing sleeves and a relaxed fall. Ours are our most embellished pieces, designed or made in Türkiye, with high necklines, cape or draped sleeves, crystals and hand-placed florals. Put one on and you are dressed.
Which one for which day?
- Every day: an abaya over pieces you already own, such as the Bahar Abaya over a simple dress.
- Weddings, Eid and evenings: a kaftan such as the Zarif Kaftan, or an embellished abaya such as the Yıldız Abaya, which comes alive under evening light.
- When you want the whole look decided for you: the Elanur Abaya comes with its matching Inner Dress and its scarf.
Fit and sizing
All of our kaftans come in one size, and most have a discreet internal cord so you can adjust the silhouette. Most of our abayas are one size too, while some, such as the Yıldız Abaya, come in sizes. See our Size Guide, or message us on WhatsApp and we will help you choose.