kaftan

Ramadan Kareem! Like every year, Ramadan 2023 promises to be an eventful one, with lots of suhoors and iftar celebrations bound to be taking over your calendar. Not sure what to wear? Keep reading.

As the Holy Month begins today, you’re bound to see your festive calendar slowly but surely filling up with suhoor and iftar outings, along with family celebrations that allow for quality time with your loved ones. While modest dressing is key to Ramadan festivities, it can be a daunting task to find the ideal ensemble for each outing.  Cue Vogue Arabia’s Ramadan edit, which has something for every occasion this month.

Elegant Ramadan 2023 outfits
During the month of self-reflection, less truly is more. So why not echo the peaceful mindset via your wardrobe? To go the simple, elegant route this Ramadan, look to SemSem for beautifully pleated dresses in jewel tones, or invest in a floral maxi from Mango’s exclusive collection. Taller Marmo’s fringed numbers are always a classic, and this season, the brand offers up a sunset-hued dress that’s worth checking out. If you love to layer, you can always top up a favorite from your existing repertoire with Purificacion Garcia’s bold yellow coat.
Dress, Mango. 749
Statement-making Ramadan 2023 outfits
As you inch closer to Eid al-Fitr, you may find your suhoor and iftars becoming grander. For the biggest occasions of the month, don’t be afraid to go bold with sequins and dramatic drapes. Cases in point: Jenny Packham’s sparkling powder blue gown, Dina Melwani’s cheerful yellow belted creation, and Shatha Essa’s ivory kaftan, which features a statement cape embroidered with multicolored blooms.
Crystal-embellished cape-style gown, Dina Melwani. AED 15,822
Playfully printed Ramadan 2023 outfits
This year, Ramadan 2023 has fallen right at the brink of the summer. As the mercury rises, there’s no time like the present to add some light-as-air modest numbers to your closet, and prints can go a long way in sprucing things up. From La Double J’s lemon print kaftan, to Versace’s signature baroque pattern and Dolce & Gabbana’s rabbit print maxi, there’s lots to choose from below.
Kaftan, La Double J
The best abayas, kaftans and dresses for Ramadan 2023
Crystal-embellished plissé-satin maxi dress, Semsem. AED 4,504
Blooming Petals on Purple Organza abaya, Sui abaya. AED 2,850
Cape-effect embellished tulle gown, Jenny Packham. AED 12,274
Coat, Purificacion Garcia
Draped cape-style gown, Gaby Charbachy. AED 9,519
Dress, Sandro. AED 1,520
Embroidered high-neck midi dress, Saiid Kobeisy. AED 6,281
Fringed draped long dress, Taller Marmo. AED 3,440
Glittered plissé-tulle gown and cape set, Dima Ayad. AED 3,636
Kaftan, Versace
Long rabbit-print chiffon dress, Dolce & Gabbana. AED 23,300
Printed pleated abaya, Kaf by Kaf. AED 962
Ruffled printed cotton and silk-blend jacquard maxi dress, Etro. AED 6,881
Sequin-embellished cape kaftan dress, Shatha Essa. AED 3,375
Taffeta navy blue kaftan, Hessa Falasi .AED 2,200
Tie-neck pintucked printed silk-chiffon gown, Oscar de la Renta. AED 24,610
Zeynab scale print kaftan dress, Bambah. AED 2,471

Photo: Instagram.com/karenwazen
If there’s one thing we can say for sure about Karen Wazen‘s sartorial aesthetic, it’s that she loves a pop of color. Over the past few months, the Lebanese influencer and entrepreneur has been spotted in a spectrum of vibrant hues, from acid blue and emerald green to canary yellow. And yesterday, it was time for Wazen to give striking scarlet a little love.
Seen enjoying an evening out in Doha, Qatar, Karen Wazen made a case for traffic-stopping reds in a crinkled silk-chiffon gown by Egyptian fashion house SemSem. The billowing ensemble created the illusion of a formal kaftan, and came with two floor-length sleeves that fluttered behind her as she walked. Take a closer look below.

Did you miss the Swarovski detailing on Karen Wazen’s red gown?
Adding just the right amount of sparkle to Karen Wazen’s look from Doha were the delicate Swarovski buttons that dotted the front of her SemSem gown. Instead of pairing her kaftan-inspired look with matching accessories, the 35-year-old opted for a champagne gold and pink handbag from her sister Andrea Wazen’s label for the night out. A classic diamond ring was among her only accessories. As for her beauty look, Wazen painted a sultry picture on Instagram with artfully disheveled ombré waves, and natural makeup that drew attention to her doe eyes.
Here’s a closer look at Karen Wazen’s SemSem gown.
Gown, SemSem. AED 6,960

Photo: Instagram.com/queenrania
Spending quality time with friends and family is one of the best parts of the Holy Month of Ramadan, and for Queen Rania of Jordan, Ramadan 2022 also brought the opportunity connect with the people of her homeland through a series of special iftars and suhoors.
As we inch closer to Eid al-Fitr, the royal has been stepping out more than usual, making the most of the last few days of Ramadan with back-to-back outings. Most recently, Her Highness was seen breaking her fast with “a group of accomplished young women and in the presence of Princess Rym Ali, Princess Ghida Talal, Princess Wijdan, and other princesses at the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts.”

Queen Rania styled her velvet kaftan with diamond and ruby earrings
For her evening out, Queen Rania chose a festive look that’s perfect for Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Her pick: a rich velvet kaftan in deep maroon, which came with hot pink detailing along its neckline and cuffs. While lightweight kaftans are a winning pick for summer months, the royal’s plush pick is ideal for evening outings, and is bound to come in handy later in the year, when temperatures drop once again.
Photo: Instagram.com
Queen Rania is not one to do things half-heartedly, and this mindset also extends to her ensembles. For her most recent iftar, she accessorized her regal kaftan with the most unique earrings—a contemporay design that seemed to be embedded with diamonds and pink rubies that seamlessly complemented the hue of her clothing. That, paired with rosy makeup and her trademark fresh blow-dry, made for a fail-safe iftar look. Take notes before you step out for your next meal.

It’s almost here! The Holy Month of Ramadan has almost come to a close once again, and Eid al-Fitr is just around the corner. As you wait with bated breath to get together with your closest friends and families, it may also be a good idea to put together an ensemble that commemorates the special occasion in a unique way. Not quite sure what to wear for Eid this time around? Whether you prefer soft hues, playful patterns, or all-out glitz, Vogue Arabia has the perfect kaftans, abayas, gowns and scarves for you.
Keep it classic
A time of looking back on personal growth, Eid al-Fitr 2022 deserves to be celebrated in something that’s not just elegant to look at, but can also come in handy for years to come. If less-is-more has always been your motto, invest in Azzalia’s ivory draped abaya, or play up earthy hues with a buttery beige number from Barza. Fendi’s ivory and gold gown gives traditional wear a contemporary twist, while Totême’s black and white scarf promises to see you through many seasons to come.
Gown, Fendi. AED 20,462
Feeling experimental?
Balancing comfort and style is an art, and this Eid, there’s no going wrong with a lightweight abaya in a playful pattern. Illi Studio’s printed layer is a winner for the hot months ahead, as is Shatha Essa’s delicate piece, embroidered with gold palm trees. Chi-ka’s ombré kaftan proves that lightweight outfits can pack a punch too, while Ghizlan’s floral number adds a certain romance to festive dressing.
Abaya, The Cap Project .AED 2,900
Make a statement
For many, Eid al-Fitr brings with it much-awaited get-togethers, and if you’re all set to sparkle, check out Semsem’s metallic kaftan, or Hessa Falasi’s sheer feather-detailed abaya. Needle & Thread’s intricately embellished gown promises to stand out no matter where you go, and Monique Lhuillier’s ruffled coat is just what you need for a stop-and-stare moment.
Coat, Monique Lhuillier. AED 22,505
Below, take a closer look at Vogue Arabia’s edit of the best pieces to wear this Eid.
Kaftan, Dolce & Gabbana. AED 11,900
Scarf, Toteme. AED 956

Abaya, Atelier Zuhra. AED 5,693
Abaya, Azzalia. AED 1,800
Scarf, Loewe. AED 1,100
Abaya, Barza. AED 950
Gown, Andrew Gn. AED 12,626
Abaya, Dananeer. AED 1,350
Abaya, Illi. AED 1,200
Abaya, Michel Kabbany. AED 4,273
Abaya, Shatha Essa. AED 2,850

Abaya, The Giving Movement. AED 699
Abaya, The Orphic. AED 2,950
Gown, Bouguessa. AED 1,850
Gown, Elie Saab. AED 19,550
Abaya, Hessa Falasi. AED 3,200
Gown, Carolina Herrera. AED 25,597

Scarf, Valentino. AED 3,100
Gown, Emilia Wickstead. AED 11,107
Gown, Needle and Thread. AED 2,950
Gown, Reem Acra. AED 16,264
Gown, Rodarte. AED 10,402
Scarf, Valentino. AED 3,100
Gown, Semsem. AED 5,784
Kaftan, Chi-ka. AED 2,500

Kaftan, Emilio Pucci. AED 4,280
Scarf, Gucci. AED 2,150
Kaftan, Ghizlan. 2,150
Kaftan, Oscar de la Renta. AED 13,520
Abaya, Hedb Collection. AED 2,000
Kaftan, Taller Marmo. AED 5,375
Scarf, Etro. AED 1,920

Balqees Fathi in SemSem. Photo: Hala Aljahwary via Instagram.com/balqeesfathi
Solid-colored kaftans can be just as noteworthy as embellished and printed ones, and Balqees Fathi‘s recent outfits proved just that. While in Saudi Arabia, the Emirati-Yemeni singer served up not one, but two looks in different saturated hues that were all about pared-back elegance.
Photo: Hala Aljahwary via Instagram.com/balqeesfathi
The first came in the ever-classic and bold shade of bright red, which the star effortlessly wore in the form of a floor-grazing kaftan by SemSem. The head-turning number—picked from the brand founded by Egyptian designer Abeer Al Otaiba—featured crystal buttons down the center for a hint of glam, and caped sleeves that lent to the flowiness of the piece. For the occasion, Fathi’s makeup was done using products from her own brand, Bex Beauty, and took on a monochrome look with a brown smoky eye and creamy nude pout.
Fathi in Taller Marmo. Photo: Hala Aljahwary via Instagram.com/balqeesfathi
In the same week, the singer also attended a suhoor event in Riyadh, this time embracing a lush green shade for her kaftan from Dubai-based label Taller Marmo. Made with drapy crepe, the piece featured long silk tassels lining its entire hem, as well as the satin tie wrapped around the kaftan’s high neck. Once again wearing her hair down in her signature sleek and straight style, Fathi’s makeup look was switched to feature peachy bronze tones. Both looks were curated by celebrity stylist Cedric Haddad, and paired with dazzling jewelry from Marli, with which Fathi recently collaborated.
Photo: Hala Aljahwary via Instagram.com/balqeesfathi
Read Next: Tara Emad’s Fringed Top and Trouser Look is a Refreshing Alternative to the Kaftan for Ramadan

Photo: Instagram.com/jessicakahawaty
Jessica Kahawaty recently made a case for the rare but sumptuous combination of white and gold for the month of Ramadan. Attending an event in Dubai, the Lebanese model and philanthropist took to the occasion in a twinning ensemble with her mother, chef Rita Kahawaty.
Photo: Instagram.com/jessicakahawaty
The mother-daughter duo was seen dressed in dazzling kaftans from fellow Lebanese Dima Ayad‘s namesake label, in complementing metallic shades. While Jessica’s piece of choice came with a panel of gold sequins on top of the white kaftan, her mother’s featured the same, but in silver. The sequins extended to the arms of both breezy numbers, before making way for sheer flute sleeves in white. Jessica completed her look with a matte gold choker, earrings, rings, and a bracelet by Bulgari, with a handbag and platform sandals in the same color. As for Rita, she too accessorized her kaftan with a matching dainty necklace and drop earrings from the Italian jeweler, and went for a metallic silver clutch.

Jessica also served up beauty inspiration with her glam for the day. Although wearing your hair down with a kaftan adds to the elegance of the piece, also consider tying it up in a high ponytail as the 33-year-old did for a sleeker finish. Not only did Jessica Kahawaty’s hairstyle balance out the voluminous kaftan, it also allowed its details—and her jewelry—to shine. For her makeup, Jessica kept it minimal with subtle winged liner, a pinky nude pout, and glowy skin topped off with subtle gold highlighter ideal for both iftar evenings and suhoor nights.
How Jessica Kahawaty and mom Rita Kahawaty nail mother-daughter dressing
If you follow the Kahawatys on Instagram, you may already be aware that this Ramadan outing wasn’t the first time Jessica Kahawaty has twinned with her mother. By the looks of it, the two women love matching their looks, and have been seen in everything from coordinated hats to headscarves over the years. Below is a brief look at some of the sweetest pictures of the duo in matching ensembles.

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Vogue Arabia, April 2022. Photo: Greg Adamski
Ramadan is officially here, and with it, comes a festive mood that’s almost palpable in the region. With Covid-19 restrictions finally a thing of the past, 2022 is giving all the chance to make the most of the Holy Month with special suhoor and iftar gatherings, many of which may require an ensemble that’s as eye-catching as it is comfortable.
Cue the evergreen kaftan—a classic that’s long been a favorite for a reason. Most often crafted using breezy fabrics like cotton, silk, linen and organza, kaftans manage to tick all the right boxes for festive occasions. While their relaxed silhouettes allow ease of movement, the right cut can do wonders, creating an elegant shape that no other outfit can quite compete with. And for the modest dresser, the kaftan delivers time and again with its demure aesthetic. What more could you ask for?
As we dive into one of the most joyous and meaningful times of the year, Vogue Arabia takes you through some of the best kaftans to invest in this Ramadan.

Pastel kaftans for suhoor
As temperatures continue to rise, now is the ideal time to show light-as-air fabrics and soothing sorbet hues some love. Alaïa’s minty blue pick makes the ideal choice, as does Honayda’s soft pink pleated kaftan, which comes with edgy embellishment around the neckline. Love a little lace? Don’t miss Miguelina’s biscuit brown kaftan, or spotlight minimal accents with Yasmin Al Mulla’s beige number, dotted with delicate silver moons. Andrew Gn’s buttery yellow kaftan—complete with feather detailing—is another must-see for anyone who loves a little drama.
Honayda, AED 9,017
Vibrant kaftans for Ramadan get-togethers
There’s no denying the appeal of jewel tones, so why not pick a bold kaftan this season? Celebrate the Holy Month with your nearest and dearest in a light—yet impactful—creation like Halpern’s tangerine and pink color-blocked piece, or echo the beauty of paradise with an emerald green Oscar de la Renta. Pearla’s deep purple kaftan stands out for its innovate use of mustard accents, while SemSem‘s ombré kaftan, which runs from coral to midnight blue, gives a nod to the beauty of Ramadan sunsets.
Halpern, AED 11,656

Iftar-ready embellished kaftans
Every now and then, more really is more. For your next formal iftar gathering, why not celebrate the Holy Month with an embellished kaftan? Bthaina’s ivory and gold number paints a regal picture, while La Vie Style House caters to those who never shy away from a strong dose of sparkle. Prefer tried-and-tested hues? You can’t go wrong with Noor Al Bahrani’s subtly sequined black creation, or Selma Benomar’s grey kaftan, featuring intricately placed layers of tassels.
Selma Benomar, price on request
Printed kaftans that pack a punch
Say what you will, nothing beats the appeal of a printed kaftan. Fuss-free, yet fun, a patterned version of the staple is a wardrobe must-have. Play with florals via Dolce & Gabbana, Meng, and Richard Quinn, or champion exotic birds and butterflies with Tory Burch and Emilio Pucci’s designs respectively. Scroll through to see how Bambah plays up the classic white kaftan with geometric patterns, and Azzalia’s innovative new piece, which brings back everyone’s favorite paisley patterns.
Meng, AED 4,369
Below, all the kaftans you need to check out this month.
Alaïa, AED 10,976
Yasmin Al Mulla, AED 1,350
Tory Burch, AED 1,795
Pearla, price on request

Taller Marmo, AED 3,939
SemSem, AED 4,614

Richard Quinn, AED 10,810

Azzalia, price on request
Oscar de la Renta, AED 12,290
Noor Al Bahrani, AED 300
Miguelina, AED 2,833

La Vie Style House, AED 2,628

Fil De Vie, AED 2,421
Emilio Pucci, AED 8,581
Dries Van Noten, AED 1,663
Dolce & Gabbana, AED 19,759
D’ascoli, AED 1,249
Camilla, AED 2,676
Bthaina, AED 5,190
Bambah, AED 2,446

Andrew Gn, AED 13,935

Photo: Instagram.com/rymsaidi
Rym Saidi has joined the stars serving covetable modest style this Ramadan with a noteworthy look of her own. The Tunisian model and TV presenter attended an iftar hosted by Bulgari in Dubai last night, making a case for ocean blue for the evening festivities.
Walking into the event with husband Wissam Breidy, Saidi was seen dressed in a satin kaftan by Andrew GN, with a voluminous silhouette balanced out by a pleated center and a mini waist belt detailing. The silky piece also came with blue-green embellishment on its mock neck, leaving no need for jewelry, save for a pair of dainty silver earrings worn by the mother-of-two. Saidi’s look was made complete with a metallic Bulgari Serpenti clutch as arm candy, a sapphire ring for added bling, and a pair of metallic grey flats. As for the glam to go with the elegant ensemble, the former Vogue Arabia cover star wore her hair in a sleek bun with a middle part and opted for a matte bronzed makeup look with a smoky eye and nude lips.

Also nailing couple’s dressing, Breidy’s look included a blazer complementing the shade of Saidi’s kaftan, and was paired with black trousers, a white t-shirt and sneakers. The duo smiled for the cameras upon entrance, and were joined for the festive meal by the likes of Zoya Sakr, Bulgari’s Vincent Reynes, and Rosemin.
Read Next: 8 Unforgettable Pictures of Rym Saidi in Her Glimmering Rami Al Ali Couture Gown at the Ball of Arabia

Photo: Courtesy MARLI
Among the list of the most loved musicians in the region is the name of Balqees Fathi, more often lovingly known by her fans simply as Balqees. Over the years, the Emirati-Yemeni singer, who has also counted herself as a UN Champion for Women’s Rights in the Middle East, hasn’t just taken over with her powerful voice and strong opinions, but also her unique style. A reflection of her fiery personality, Fathi’s wardrobe comes with more than its fair share of statement-makers, and it seems like her taste in jewelry falls perfectly in line with the aesthetic. This festive season, the musician is getting into the spirit of Ramadan with a special collaboration, lending her face to the Ramadan campaign of jewelry house MARLI.
Though its home may be the dynamic city of New York, MARLI takes inspiration from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, and manages to strike a cord with women across the globe with its minimal shapes—and oh, so wearable—designs. For Ramadan 2022, founder and creative director Maral Artinian crafted what is now called the Tip Top collection, a sparkling series of earrings, bracelets, neckpieces and rings that blur the lines between traditional and contemporary jewelry. And to share the collection with the world, Balqees Fathi was a natural choice. “Balqees embodies the MARLI persona,” Artinian reveals to Vogue Arabia. “She is independent, accomplished, and carefree. Her personality and perseverance inspired this collaboration.”
Photo: Courtesy MARLI
Dressed in free-flowing modest ensembles, Balqees Fathi plays the perfect muse for MARLI’s Tip-Top collection, which feature diamonds and precious stones in blue for an unexpected twist. Describing her relationship with the brand as “magnetic”, the star shared, “I was always fascinated with MARLI creations and I have always been a MARLI client since they launched in the region. The TVC concept has an extraordinary story line to celebrate Ramadan… It was a privilege to work with the team and Angy Akly, the creative producer and director.” In an exclusive chat with Vogue Arabia, the musicians opens up about her favorite Ramadan rituals, her festive style, and of course, all things jewelry.
Congratulations on starring in MARLI’s Ramadan campaign! Can you tell us about your most precious pieces of jewelry? 
I have two pieces of jewelry that are very dear to me: a gold bracelet from my dad which I wore as a kid and see in all my childhood pictures, and the second piece was a necklace gifted by my grandmother, may she rest in peace, after I graduated from school, and I still have both these pieces to this day.
From sharp pantsuits to shimmering jumpsuits, your fans have seen you acing it all. But what is Balqees’s true personal style? What do you love to wear when you’re not out and about?
I’m a person who loves to change and you can see it even in my art. Being able to perform in different facets helped me to get closer to my audience. My personal style is always minimalistic, at a times even carefree, but always with a statement.
Photo: Courtesy MARLI
Is your style any different during the Holy Month of Ramadan? What is your ideal iftar look?
Elegant, minimalistic, and I love wearing a kaftan or an abaya.
How important is jewelry in defining your personal style?
It’s a part of my lifestyle, wherever I go, wherever or whenever I have an appearance; it wouldn’t be complete without the perfect piece of jewelry
Ramadan is a special time for all. What’s your favorite Ramadan tradition?
Being with my family, including all the beautiful the gatherings, and reunions — the whole Ramadan vibe.
The festive season helps us all come together with the people that matter most to us. How do you like to spend quality time with your family?
Family always comes first; I cherish every moment that I spend with my son.
Photo: Courtesy MARLI
It’s safe to say that music is, of course, a major part of your life. While your voice has inspired many, who are the musicians that most inspire you?
Definitely Fayrouz is my inspiration, and of course those who created change in the East and the West such as Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, and Celine Dion.
And finally, Ramadan is a time of self-reflection and appreciating everything in our lives. If you could gift someone a piece of jewelry from MARLI, what would it be? Who would you gift it to?
I would give the timeless MARLI Cleo bracelet to my elementary school teacher. I always remember her; she was very patient and kind to me.

Photo: Islam Saeid
With Ramadan in full swing, get ready for plenty of style cues from some of the biggest names in the region for your next iftar and suhoor gatherings. After Queen Rania‘s contemporary-meets-traditional approach to modest dressing this week, Dorra Zarrouk took a more classic route by wearing a kaftan to an event in Cairo.

The actor’s floaty number for the occasion was from Egyptian brand Paiete, and came with a statement detail. At the back of the kaftan was a large patch of the Hand of Fatima, also known as Hamsa, in multicolored sequins, which was also embroidered in a smaller size on the left shoulder. The rest of the cream-colored piece featured minimal accents such as gold lining and matching tassels at the sleeves. To complete her look, the Tunisian star wore a white top and jeans under the kaftan, and paired it with a white and gold Dolce & Gabbana purse, and a dainty diamond choker.
Photo: Islam Saeid
Zarrouk also served up makeup inspiration with her soft glam look, which featured subtle smoky eyes with emphasized lashes, glowy peach blush, and a nude pout. As for her hair, the actor chose to go with her signature glossy blow dry with big waves.
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