Silk vs Satin Kaftan: What's the Difference? A Plus Size Guide
Shopping for a silk kaftan in plus size, you'll see the words silk, satin, satin silk and even pumpkin silk. They don't all mean the same thing. Here's a simple guide to silk vs satin, so you know exactly what you're buying, and how to choose a silky satin kaftan that fits 1X–3X.
What is silk?
Silk is a natural fibre made by silkworms. Real silk is soft and light, but it is usually expensive and often needs gentle hand washing or dry cleaning.
What is satin?
Satin is not a fibre. It's a weave that gives fabric a smooth, glossy front. Satin can be woven from silk or from other fibres, which is why satin is often more affordable than silk and easier to care for.
What are satin silk and pumpkin silk?
At Gypsie Blu, "satin silk" and "pumpkin silk" are our names for silky, smooth fabrics. They are not pure silk. Satin silk has a soft sheen, and pumpkin silk has a metallic finish. Our satin kaftans can be hand washed or machine washed and hung to dry; always check the care details on each product page.
Silk vs satin: the main differences
| Real silk | Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A natural fibre | A weave with a glossy face |
| Look | Soft, natural sheen | Smooth shine |
| Price | Usually higher | Usually more affordable |
| Care | Often hand wash or dry clean | Our satin kaftans: hand or machine wash, hang dry |
Why a satin kaftan works for plus size women
- Drape: satin flows over curves and catches the light.
- Dressy look: it's ideal for weddings, holidays and dinners.
- Easy fit: our satin kaftans have a V-neck, 3/4 kimono sleeves and a 52-inch length, and are made in one size that fits 1X–3X.
Our favourite satin kaftans
- Black satin kaftan: our best seller.
- Black deco sunburst satin silk kaftan: a bold deco print for evenings.
- Blue ornamental satin silk kaftan: a peacock-style print with an embellished neckline.
- Mint ethnic satin silk kaftan: a fresh colour for summer.
- Red pumpkin silk kaftan: a metallic finish for parties.
- Teal embroidered satin kaftan: embroidery and lace details.
See every style in our satin kaftans for women and embroidered kaftans, and read our plus size satin kaftan guide.
Silk vs satin kaftan FAQs
Is a satin kaftan the same as a silk kaftan?
No. Silk is a natural fibre; satin is a weave. Our satin silk and pumpkin silk kaftans are silky fabrics, not pure silk.
Do you sell plus size silk kaftans?
We don't sell pure silk kaftans. Our satin, satin silk and pumpkin silk kaftans give a silky look and feel in one size that fits 1X–3X.
Can I machine wash a satin kaftan?
Our satin kaftans can be hand washed or machine washed and hung to dry. Check the product page for each style.
How long does delivery take?
In-stock kaftans arrive in 6–11 business days and made-to-order styles in 12–18 business days, with free US shipping.
