Caftan Confidential.

Caftans originated in Turkey roughly 800 years ago.

They didn't become really interesting, however, until the 17th century when the Ottoman sultans began importing fabrics from Persia. These new designs incorporated a flower shape called a boteh, which we now call paisley.

Suddenly, every fashionable pasha and his wife in Istanbul had to own three dozen.

I scoured the Nine Streets neighborhood of Amsterdam to find this particular print.

You'll not only thank me for looking magnificent; you'll be historically informed.

Persian Gold Caftan (No. 3342), in 100% cotton cambric. Sweetheart neckline.

Lots of delicate red piping in all the right places. Mildly daring 14" side slits.

Women's sizes: One size.

Color: Black with Red, Gold, and Olive Paisley.