What Is Sfifa? The Detail That Frames a Moroccan Kaftan

Look closely at a Moroccan kaftan and you will often see a narrow woven or braided trim outlining its shape. This is sfifa: a traditional finishing detail that can frame a neckline, follow a front opening or finish a sleeve. At Moroccan Touch, it is an important part of how a garment takes shape.

A line that defines the design

Sfifa can be subtle and tonal, blending into the fabric, or graphic and contrasting. A fine golden trim creates a different effect from several bands arranged around a high neckline. The position, width and colour of the trim help define the character of each piece.

Rather than treating every decorative detail as the same technique, it helps to distinguish the trim from embroidery and buttons. Embroidery creates a motif on the fabric. Sfifa outlines or embellishes selected edges and areas of the garment.

Sfifa and aakaids: two different details

Aakaids are traditional handmade buttons. They may sit beside sfifa along a front opening, but they are separate elements. On some kimono ensembles, a line of aakaids frames the outer opening while sfifa finishes the inner kaftan. Each product description explains the details of that particular design.

From our atelier to your wardrobe

Our pieces are handmade in our atelier in Morocco, with buttons crafted by women artisans in the mountains of Sefrou and sfifa trims by master artisans. These details connect contemporary silhouettes with the skills behind Moroccan dress.

When choosing a kaftan, consider how its finishing relates to the fabric: tonal sfifa can bring quiet definition to crepe, while contrasting trims highlight the texture of velvet or brocade. Follow the care information for your piece to protect both its fabric and its handcrafted finishing.

Explore our Moroccan kaftans and discover more about our craftsmanship.