Beach fashion has always been around mostly in the form of bathing suits and several magazines have become famous by just highlighting bikinis.

But the latest addition in the beach fashion stakes is the beach kaftan, long thought to be meant for only the demure and severely modest. However, it soon started to become a fashion statement much on the lines of the bikini and has now become a must-have for the woman planning to splash about in the pool or in the sea.

The sarong has long held sway as something to be used to cover up but the beach kaftan offers up a splash of chic and the colors available are just mind-boggling. These kaftans are no longer meant for middle-aged ladies planning to plunk themselves down on a deckchair and now they have found appeal with the younger generation.

After a quick dive into the pool, it is a common sight for young women to step out and head straight for their deckchair to put on the beach kaftan. Naturally they come in different sizes and shapes and the colors and designs available go a long way in showing it has arrived as a fashion statement.

Nowadays, you can see them all over the world at pool sides and on beaches. They can be opaque, translucent or very sheer depending on the culture from which the woman comes from one would suppose.

They can come in single colors, with designs or can be of the same color as the bikini or bathing suit being worn on the day. The beach kaftan has shed its highly conservative image and can be worn over even the most daring of swimming suits.

They can also be used to retain body warmth after a dip in the warmth and of course, to help cover up curves from prying and lascivious male eyes.

Either way, the garment has announced its arrival in big numbers judging by its popularity across all age groups.