Nomad Sari On the Med Collection - Kaftan - Turquoise with Gold & White Large Evil Eye

• The colour is a clear, sea-like turquoise with a soft, slightly textured look, the kind that sits well against pale sand and shallow water.
• The evil eye sits at the centre of the chest: a deep blue iris within white and gold, with small white drops hanging beneath it like lashes or tears.
• The shape is wide and relaxed, with short, flowing sleeves and a V-neckline that opens at the collarbone.
• The hem falls in an uneven, slightly angled line, and a small tassel at the edge adds a little movement as you walk.
• It is light enough for warm weather and gives easy coverage over a swimsuit without clinging.

The evil eye is one of the most widely worn protective symbols around the Mediterranean and beyond. In Greek and Turkish tradition, a blue eye is kept close to turn aside envious glances and bring a feeling of quiet reassurance. Here it is worn large and in the open, a graphic centrepiece rather than a hidden charm. Many people wear it simply because they love the look and the long tradition behind it.

Wear it open and loose over a bikini or swimsuit, or over a simple vest and shorts for a town or harbour-side lunch. Its relaxed cut suits a pared-back look: bare feet or flat sandals, a woven bag, a few fine necklaces. Light, airy fabrics like this are happiest rinsed gently and dried flat or on a line in the shade, away from harsh heat, so the colour and the decoration on the eye keep their look.

This kaftan belongs to the Nomad Sari On the Med collection, a line of easy beach and holiday pieces with a Mediterranean mood. It is made in India, and this large evil eye version is one of the boldest in the range.