How to Choose the Perfect Kaftan for Resort & Cruise Holidays

A great kaftan is the ultimate resort and cruise essential. It works as a relaxed beach cover-up during the day, then easily dresses up for sunset cocktails or dinner on board. If you are planning a cruise or warm-weather holiday and want something comfortable, flattering and easy to wear, a silk-like modal kaftan is a smart place to start.

Why Kaftans Are Ideal for Resort & Cruise Wear

Kaftans tick almost every box for resort and cruise dressing. They are cool and breathable in hot weather, offer comfortable coverage through the arms, tummy and hips, and can be styled in lots of different ways. Our kaftans are made from lightweight modal, a fabric with a soft, silk-like sheen that feels beautiful against the skin and dries quickly if it gets splashed by the pool.

Because they pack flat and hardly crease, kaftans are also a dream for travel. Roll one into your suitcase and you have an instant outfit for beach days, onboard activities and dinners in the evening.

Choosing the Right Length

The best kaftan length for a resort or cruise holiday depends on how you like to dress:

• Mini kaftans sit above the knee and are perfect as swim cover-ups or relaxed daytime pieces.
• Midi kaftans are a versatile option if you want a little more coverage but still like your legs on show.
• Maxi kaftans offer the most coverage and drama, making them ideal for evenings, formal nights and shore excursions.

Many women like to pack one shorter kaftan for poolside and one long kaftan dress for evenings.

Prints & Colours That Work on Holidays

Resort wear is the perfect time to embrace colour. Ocean-inspired blues, tropical greens and vibrant florals all look beautiful in sunny locations and photograph well in holiday snaps. If you prefer something more understated, choose a softer palette with blues, greys and neutrals that you can dress up with jewellery.

At Claire Powell, our kaftans feature original digital prints, designed in Australia to flatter mature women. The right print draws the eye where you want it and creates a long, balanced line through the body.

How to Style a Kaftan for Day & Night

One of the reasons kaftans are so popular for cruises is their versatility. A few small changes can take your kaftan from casual to occasion-ready:

• Daytime: Wear your kaftan loose over swimwear with flat sandals, a wide-brim hat and sunglasses. Add a cotton slip underneath if you prefer more coverage.
• Evening: Add a full-length slip or light camisole and pants, switch to dressier sandals or wedges and layer on jewellery. A belt at the waist can create more shape while still feeling relaxed.

Best Kaftan Shapes for Mature & Plus-Size Women

If you are a mature or plus-size woman, look for a kaftan that offers a relaxed fit without being too oversized. Our one-size kaftans are designed to fit approximately AU sizes 10–24, with generous ease through the bust, tummy and hips. The silk-like modal falls softly over curves rather than clinging, which makes it particularly flattering on fuller figures.

Building a Small Resort Wardrobe

For most cruises or resort stays, a simple capsule is all you need:

• One bright, printed kaftan dress for evenings.
• One shorter kaftan for pool and beach days.
• A neutral slip or camisole-and-pants set to wear underneath.
• Comfortable sandals, a wide-brim hat and a few pieces of jewellery.

With these pieces, you can mix and match outfits without overpacking, while still feeling polished and comfortable every day of your trip.

If you are planning your next holiday, explore our Australian-designed kaftan dresses to find the perfect resort and cruise pieces.