PureWow writers and readers agree: the mini caftan is summer 2025’s signature style. From petite women (writer Destinee Scott swears by the style as her go-to summer outfit) to tall women (editor Abby Hepworth recommends swing-shaped minis in her Palm Beach aesthetic roundup), everyone loves this style for how it’s cool, chic and versatile. Also, there’s no tight waistband, bodice or sleeves to get in the way of a leisurely long lunch or day drinking—let the vacay ensue! Worn with flat sandals in the case of casual iterations, or with heels for dressy styles, the mini caftan looks great and shoes a bit of leg (although for taller women, I suggest forgoing thongs for pointelle shorts, in case there’s a big breeze). Here are 8 of today’s coolest mini caftans to shop now.
Mini Caftans Are *The* Dress of Summer 2025, & They Work on Any Body Type
Short and breezy choices for casual and dressy
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Casual Styles
1. Frances Valentine Charming Caftan Mini
Frances Valentine
All-cotton, with colorful embroidery that looks like you picked this frock up from a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, I like this number especially for its side slits, which let you take big strides (and enjoy gentle breezes).
2. Uoozee Summer Dress
Uoozee
I see so much to love about this distinctive mini-caftan: the Dacron-cotton blend needs no ironing, the graphic print is groovy and the loose fit is flattering.
All-cotton with just a touch of spandex, this machine-washable number looks as crisp as a sheath but is as comfy as a tunic. Note how the stand collar and three-quarter sleeves are modest without being too tight (an absolute no-go in the high heat of summer).
4. Conditions Apply Floral Mini Kaftan
Conditions Apply
The bodice detailing on this viscose pullover adds interest, and I also appreciate the ruffles at the wrists. With a 34-inch length, this dress isn’t going to swallow petite wearers.
Dressy Mini-Caftans
5. Trina Turk Mini Neena Boatneck Dress
Trina Turk
Swirling satin-backed crepe fabric and feather trim around the hem and sleeves really jazz up the humble mini-caftan, and make this a statement dress that’s going to get many compliments.
Have an event where you really need to serve? This poly satin draped dress, lined in viscose, is so sexy I’m almost afraid of it.
7. Trina Turk Theodora Dress
Trina Turk
In an all-silk fabrication with dramatic dolman sleeves, this dress is a vivid retro scarf made into a whole luxe look.
8. Pomander Place Blue Stripe Floral Embroidered Lanie Dress
Pomander Place
When is a caftan less on the hippie tip and looking more like an uptown lady’s ‘fit? When it is turned out in striped embroidered cotton as in this cotton-lined dress. I’d wear a statement necklace to fill out that notched V-neckline and some simple flats and be absolutely church- and reception-ready.
