Babouches, kaftan, and Hand of Fatima: what to look for when buying

Babouches: size and fit

Babouches are soft slip-on shoes, traditionally made of leather, with a pointed or rounded shape. Sizing is not standardized: some models run large, others small, and the footbed is often flatter than on shoes from European retailers.

• Size chart: Measure your foot in centimeters and compare it with the seller's chart, not just with your usual shoe size.
• Reviews: Comments like “runs large” can be helpful, but they are the impressions of individual customers.
• Returns: Check the seller's return and withdrawal policy before you order. That way, you can exchange or send back an item if the size is wrong, provided the seller offers this.
• Trying on: Try them on a clean floor indoors so the item stays unused in case you return it.

Leather gives a little over time. A shoe that is slightly tight at first can stretch; one that is too big will not get smaller.

Material: leather, wool, velvet

• Workmanship: Even seams, clean edges, and firmly attached embroidery or decorations indicate careful craftsmanship. Loose threads or glue marks are signs that you should consider returning the item.
• The term “leather” should be specified in the description, for example “genuine leather” or “faux leather”.
• The smell of new leather usually fades after airing out in a shady, dry spot.
• You need a sturdy outsole if you want to walk outdoors; the classic soft sole is meant more for indoor use.

Caftan: fabrics and cut

The caftan is a loose-cut, long garment. It comes in light cotton as well as blended fabrics, viscose, silk, or elaborately embroidered fabrics. Which one suits you depends on the occasion.

• Cotton and blended fabrics: Usually more suitable for everyday wear and easier to care for.
• Silk and delicate fabrics: For special occasions; often hand wash or dry cleaning only.
• Embroidery and beads: Need gentle handling; check whether washing is allowed.
• Transparency: Very light fabrics can be see-through. Photos and reviews give clues.
• Size: The cut is loose. Still, check the size chart for length, chest, and shoulder width.

On fit: A caftan fits loosely and often falls from the shoulders to the calf or to the floor. Compare the stated length with your height so it is not too short or too long. A belt can accentuate the cut if the model has belt loops. For summer travel, breathability and weight matter: lightweight fabrics wrinkle faster but also dry more quickly.

On care: Follow the label inside the garment and, when in doubt, have delicate pieces dry cleaned. General washing tips do not replace the label. Wash colored and embroidered pieces separately at first, until you know how they behave.

Hand of Fatima (hamsa): symbol and jewelry

The hamsa, often called the “Hand of Fatima” in Morocco, is a hand with the fingers pointing upward, often with an eye in the middle. It is known as a symbol in several cultures and religions of the Middle East and North Africa, and its meaning and history differ depending on the context. In jewelry and decor it is widely worn without implying any particular religious belief.

If you choose a piece of jewelry as a gift, it is worth a brief thought whether the symbol has a meaning for the recipient. Otherwise, it is a jewelry motif like many others.

Jewelry material and skin tolerance

• 925 silver: The number stands for 92.5% silver in the alloy. Silver can tarnish; a soft cloth helps with polishing.
• Nickel-free: Nickel in jewelry can cause skin reactions in some people. Legal limits apply to products that come into contact with skin. A “nickel-free” label makes choosing easier, but it does not replace a test on very sensitive skin.
• Alloy and plating: Gold-plated or silver-plated pieces can lose their plating. The description should name the material.
• Clasp and chain: Look for sturdy loops, clasps, and the chain length. Adjustable chains are more flexible.
• Care: Protect jewelry from water, perfume, and cosmetics, and store it separately.
• Gift: If you give jewelry as a gift, ask about any known sensitivities and include the return information.

Buying checklist

1. Read the material and composition in the description.
2. Use the size chart and compare measurements.
3. Follow the care instructions and label.
4. Review the seller's return and withdrawal policy.
5. Check critical reviews and customer photos.

You can find more on style and home decor in the same spirit in the guide to decor and crafts; for skin and hair care, see the hammam guide.

Care at a glance

The care label is the most important source. It describes washing temperature, drying, and ironing for the specific piece. If a label is missing, the seller can give you information. The following overview is a guideline and does not replace the manufacturer's instructions.

• Leather babouches: Do not put them in the washing machine. Wipe with a slightly damp cloth and let them air dry, not on a radiator. Stuffed with newspaper, they keep their shape.
• Caftan: For embroidery, beads, or sequins, turn the garment inside out and wash it in a laundry bag or by hand, if the label allows it. Silk usually belongs at the dry cleaner's.
• Silver jewelry: Polish with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners unless the manufacturer permits them.
• Storage: Keep shoes in open air, hang clothing so it can breathe, and store jewelry separately in pouches or compartments.

For stains: do not rub, dab instead, and test on an inconspicuous spot. Handmade dyes can bleed; wash new, strongly colored pieces separately at first.

As of: October 2026 · General information on materials and care; manufacturer's instructions, the care label, and the terms of the respective seller are authoritative.