Moroccan Caftan and Takchita

As for women’s clothing, the typical Moroccan costume is the Caftan or Takchita, although they are not exactly equivalent, as we will see below. These Moroccan dresses, as with many other aspects of their culture, are the result of the contribution of different civilizations that conquered this territory: the Arabs, who introduced the Persian Empire fashion with them, the Berbers and the Andalusians, along with some European influences over the time.

• How is the Moroccan Caftan?

The Moroccan Caftan, as we said, has its roots in the Persian Empire and was introduced into North Africa by the Arab conquerors. The women of this country wear this garment in their daily life, but especially on special occasions such as weddings and birthdays, being the equivalent of the Abaya of the Middle East.

The Moroccan Caftan (or Kaftan) is a long dress made with exquisite bright fabrics that characterize this timeless Moroccan costume. The women of the country give great importance to their caftans because they reflect their identity. The product itself can be relatively expensive, but is justified by its traditional and handmade character, making it a unique and beautiful piece. These dresses gained much popularity after being introduced to the western world by means of the great designers and brands in their clothing lines and on the catwalks.

Moroccan Takchita: difference with the Caftan

Foreign designers often confuse Caftan with Moroccan Takchita, calling all of them caftan. But the truth is that they are not the same, and so the local designers and women who wear this typical Moroccan costume specify it.

The Moroccan Takchita is a two piece dress. The first layer is called Tahtiya, which resembles a simple traditional Caftan, without ornaments. The second layer is a Fouqia or Dfina, something like an open and transparent Caftan with a lot of beautiful embroidery and embellishments. Takchita is usually worn with a Mdamma (belt), whether silk, gold or silver decorated with precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds.

Instead, as we have seen, the Moroccan Caftan is a one-piece dress that is generally worn freely, without a Mdamma or belt. The typical Moroccan costume is also often referred to as Malakiya or Makhzaniya, in reference to the traditional Fassi dress worn by the princesses of the royal family. For all that, it is a timeless classic style.

These Moroccan dresses are loved by people of all ages and social backgrounds, so it has progressed naturally and hand in hand with modernity. Therefore, there are annual caftan parades with new models and inspirations. The most famous and luxurious of these shows is known precisely like that, Caftan, and takes place every year in Marrakech.