Nobody wants to have a “Who Wore It Best?” moment at a cocktail party in the Hamptons. KDH loves to discover new designers who aren’t sold on the east end yet, but offer chic pieces to create a unique summer look. Jeannie McQueeny is our favorite kaftan designer- which are a fashion staple for Hamptonistas. Her resort lifestyle brand originated in Nassau, with one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, and has evolved into an internationally coveted ready-to-wear collection.  Every piece is made by hand with the best quality silks, linen, and cashmere fabrics. Jeannie shares her aesthetic for combining glamour with comfort to KDH readers:

KDH: Some women are afraid to try the “kaftan look”- can any woman wear a kaftan?
Jeannie McQueeny: Any woman can wear a kaftan as there are interpretations of it to suit every age, size and style. I think a kaftan’s appeal lies in the fact that it’s a timeless garment that make a woman look both totally glamorous, yet feel completely relaxed.

KDH: Can a kaftan be worn anywhere?
JMQ: There is a kaftan for every occasion! Of course at the beach, but my collection always has exquisitely embroidered and beaded kaftans that can be worn at the grandest occasions. My idea is that most of my kaftans can move effortlessly from a chic beach lunch, to cocktails, and on to dinner.

KDH: Do you have a favorite silhouette from the current collection?
JMQ: Yes, there are two silhouettes I love: a long simple piece that slips on over a swimsuit and ties at the waist; and a ‘double’ or oversized kaftan that gives the effect of butterfly floating.

KDH: What are the best accessories to wear with a kaftan?
JMQ: Strappy sandals (flat or high) always look terrific – as do bare feet if on the beach – and clutches, or slouchy bags (large or small, depending on the setting and time of day etc). Jeannie McQueeny kaftans tend to have embroidered and jeweled necklines – I know what a bore it is to take a lot of jewelry on vacation, so when I started, I incorporated the idea of a ‘necklace’ into the kaftan design. One really only needs dangly earrings, dramatic bracelets and a pair of sandals!

KDH: What’s next for the Jeannie McQueeny lifestyle brand?
JMQ: A line for the African market (men and women) which is extremely exciting, and swimwear!

*Jeannie’s designs are sold at the most glam boutiques in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Florida. For details, go to  www.jeanniemqueeny.com