As if we needed any convincing that the kaftan is a solid holiday wardrobe essential, Martha Stewart just gave one of the trendiest cover-ups around her seal of approval. The tastemaker and media mogul wore a striking yellow kaftan dress by Milan brand La Double J to a sojourn at Lake Como. (Tune into Stewart’s Instagram, for more instalments of this very stylish Italian holiday.) 

It looked just as good when Stewart nipped across the lake in a retro speed boat, as documented by a friend on Instagram, below.

Known for its decadent patterns and rich colours, a La Double J piece has fast become shorthand for dressing like you’re on the riviera. It’s not the only brand that masters dolce vita dressing, however. Closer to home, sustainable designer Pippa Holt recently brought her collection of colourful and vivacious kaftans to a trunk show at The Westbury Hotel.

Holt’s kaftans don’t take the phrase ‘slow fashion’ lightly; each piece, made by artisans in Mexico, takes up to a month to produce – weavers are empowered to take their time and manage production amongst other tasks such as parenting and farming. 

Merging fashion and function, as Stewart proves, a chic kaftan is the perfect way to elevate your beachside look. Shop our round-up of the best below. 

Vesto floral print silk dress, La Double J, €950; www.farfetch.com. 

V-neck tunic dress, €45.95, at Zara. 

Midi kaftan in blue and white stripe, €650; www.pippaholt.com. 

Randa dress, Hartford, €198, at Emporium Kalu.