For my second installment of ROCK THE BUMP (see the first installment HERE), I am featuring a SUMMER MUST HAVE.  What is THE staple every preggo (and NON-preggo) should have in her closet?  THE CAFTAN.   What exactly is a caftan?

The caftan is a magical, elegant, flowing garment made of luscious printed cotton or silk, which instantly transforms the wearier into a truly ethereal creature. (definition credit: xojane)

During my mission to avoid all things maternity for as long as possible, I started purchasing caftans left and right.  You can pair with shorts or jeans, over a body-con dress, or even as a swimsuit cover-up.  Caftans are extremely flattering and can be worn casually or more dressy.  I don’t know about y’all, but being pregnant, I tend to want to cover my arms right now.  Caftans are light enough to do this without sweating to death (you know what I am talking about).

Remember, caftans are perfect for non-preggos too!  Rachel Zoe always looks super-fab in her caftans.  The Zoe Report has some EXCELLENT tips and styling ideas for caftans HERE.

Caftan Styling Ideas (more SHOPPING options at the end of the post) 

1) DRESS IT UP

Caftans are very versatile, so they can be dressed up easily.  For a fancy affair, choose a bright caftan in luxurious silk, and add gold accessories and strappy metallic heels to complete the look.  PERFECT for an evening wedding or a black tie event!

[photo cred: The Zoe Report]

CAFTAN Ralph Lauren (similar HERE, HERE, or less expensive option HERE) • HEELS Jimmy Choo (similar styles HERE) • BAG Sondra Roberts (similar styles HERE) • NECKLACE Ben Amun (similar styles HERE)

2) DRESS IT DOWN

These pictures below were taken in Napa Valley during our trip a couple of weekends ago.  I paired this Free People caftan with jean shorts and my swoon-worthy Chloe gladiators to create a hip, spring/summer outfit.  Add a hat to complete the outfit for a polished, well-put together look.  Janessa Leone is my GO-TO hat line…her hats are TO DIE.

CAFTAN Free People • SHORTS Free People • SUNNIES Sunday Somewhere

HAT Janessa Leone Wright • SHOES Chloe Gladiators 

SHOP!

What caftans do you love?  Please share in the comment section!