Morocco succeeded in having UNESCO recognize caftan within the framework of intangible cultural heritage. The decision was taken this Wednesday during the meeting that the organization held in India and which was not without controversy, due to tensions. … with the delegation of Algeria, which presented several amendments against the candidacy. Ultimately, the support of the majority of countries in Rabat led the Algerian representation to abandon its attempt to modify the file.
The caftan is a long old tunictraditionally worn by people of all ages and genders, on special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, rituals and festivals. It is a Moroccan cultural garment that is distinguished by its central opening and its rich hand-made decorations, which generally include embroidery, sequins and rhinestones.
But the caftan is more than a piece of clothing, because it is a symbol of Moroccan identity, and a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation for more than eight centuries. The caftan is part of Moroccan cultural heritage, and its making requires various corporations: weavers, tailors and artisans, who have traditionally passed on their knowledge to their families. Over the years, this learning has also been transmitted in training centers and fashion schools.
Besides Morocco, the caftan has been a common garment for centuries in many Middle Eastern, Maghreb and Central Asian cultures, the Mongol Empire, the former Ottoman Empire, etc.
More recently, since the 20th century, the caftan has also been worn in the West, thanks to the French designer Yves Saint Laurent. The designer, who fell in love with the fabrics, the colors and especially the caftan, during his first trip to Marrakech in the 60s, integrated it into his collections, making it a common item of clothing among celebrities. Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly or Jackie Kennedythe influencers of the moment did not hesitate to adopt it.
Currently, the caftan is a common garment in the collections of both haute couture brands, such as Dior, Valentino or Elie Saab, as well as in ready-to-wear brands, used for its comfort, mainly in summer.
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