Michael Kors unveiled its Middle East-exclusive kaftans earlier this week. Courtesy of Michael Kors
Michael Kors unveiled its Middle East-exclusive kaftans earlier this week. Courtesy of Michael Kors

Add a Michael Kors kaftan to your Ramadan wardrobe



Ramadan is a little more than a month away, and brands have begun to launch their limited-edition capsule collections for the occasion. Expect loads of pop-up exhibitions, such as Symphony Boutique’s upcoming Tasyourah event from April 25 to 29 and Abu Dhabi Fashion Days from April 26 to 29, filled with new kaftan and jalabiya designs to take you through the Holy Month, when dressing more conservatively is recommended.

In keeping with the spirit of the season, American fashion designer Michael Kors has created a line of kaftans exclusively for the Middle East market, which will be in stores next month. We caught a preview of the range, which includes a navy blue dress with an embroidered neckline and a blue floral- and leaf-printed design embellished with studded details.

The colourful and stylish kaftans can double up as evening dresses or beach cover-ups, and can be easily incorporated into your year-round wardrobe.

Michael Kors has also designed exclusive bags for the region, crafted in midnight blue leather with gold floral-studded motifs, and available in satchel, cross-body and messenger shapes.

The Middle East-exclusive kaftans and handbags will be available in Michael Kors boutiques across the UAE from May 17.

Dust and sand storms compared

Sand storm

  • Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
  • Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
  • Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
  • Travel distance: Limited 
  • Source: Open desert areas with strong winds

Dust storm

  • Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
  • Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
  • Duration: Can linger for days
  • Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
  • Source: Can be carried from distant regions
The National's picks

4.35pm: Tilal Al Khalediah
5.10pm: Continous
5.45pm: Raging Torrent
6.20pm: West Acre
7pm: Flood Zone
7.40pm: Straight No Chaser
8.15pm: Romantic Warrior
8.50pm: Calandogan
9.30pm: Forever Young

What's in the deal?

Agreement aims to boost trade by £25.5bn a year in the long run, compared with a total of £42.6bn in 2024

India will slash levies on medical devices, machinery, cosmetics, soft drinks and lamb.

India will also cut automotive tariffs to 10% under a quota from over 100% currently.

Indian employees in the UK will receive three years exemption from social security payments

India expects 99% of exports to benefit from zero duty, raising opportunities for textiles, marine products, footwear and jewellery