A Guide to Moroccan Caftan Fabrics: Crêpe, Velvet, Brocade & Silk

The fabric is the soul of a caftan. It decides how the piece falls, how it feels on the skin, how it reflects light — and when you can wear it. Here is a simple guide to the fabrics most used by Moroccan artisans.

Crêpe: the favourite

Crêpe is the most popular fabric for modern caftans, and for good reason. It is fluid, falls beautifully, resists creasing and takes colour wonderfully. It works for almost every occasion, from Eid to engagements, and is comfortable to wear for hours. It is also a lovely choice for light caftans.

Velvet: for grand occasions

Velvet is the fabric of heritage caftans. Rich, soft and deep in colour, it is the perfect base for gold tarz embroidery, as in our velvet caftans and velvet jackets. It is warm, so it is ideal for winter weddings and ceremonies.

Brocade: woven luxury

Brocade has its pattern woven directly into the fabric, often with metallic threads. It gives a very regal look without needing much embroidery. Brocade caftans and takchitas are traditional favourites for weddings.

Chiffon and organza: lightness

These light, sometimes transparent fabrics are often used for the over-dress (dfina) of a takchita, layered over a satin or crêpe under-dress. They create beautiful effects of depth and movement.

Satin and mlifa: shine

Satin-finish fabrics bring shine and elegance. They are often used for linings, for the under-layer of takchitas, or for caftans with a more festive look.

Sabra: “vegetable silk”

Sabra is sometimes called “cactus silk” because it was traditionally associated with fibres from the agave plant. Today, most sabra threads are made from viscose, but they keep a beautiful silky shine. Sabra is often used for sfifa braids, embroidery and woven accents.

Cotton and wool: everyday comfort

For djellabas and everyday clothing, cotton blends are light and breathable, perfect for the Marrakech summer. Traditional men’s winter djellabas are woven in wool, warm and durable.

How to choose

• Summer or travel: light crêpe, cotton, printed satin.
• Weddings and ceremonies: velvet, brocade, takchitas with chiffon layers.
• A first caftan you will wear often: crêpe, in a colour you love.

In our boutique you can touch every fabric before choosing, and for made-to-measure orders we can send you photos and videos of the available fabrics on WhatsApp.

Explore the collection →