Kaftan Party Celebrates Palm Springs Style at Modernism Week

Annual event showcases bold fashion and vintage flair in the desert city.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Modernism Week's annual Kaftan Party Contest took place at the Hyatt in Palm Springs, bringing together fashion enthusiasts to celebrate bold, retro-inspired looks. The event, hosted by local drag icon Bella da Ba, featured a runway show highlighting the creativity and style of attendees donning kaftans, caftans, and other vintage-inspired attire.

Why it matters

Modernism Week is a highly anticipated annual event in Palm Springs that draws design and architecture enthusiasts from around the world. The Kaftan Party is a signature event that allows locals and visitors alike to embrace the city's iconic mid-century modern aesthetic through fashion, highlighting the community's appreciation for vintage style and flair.

The details

The Kaftan Party Contest featured a runway show where attendees showcased their boldest, most creative takes on the kaftan and caftan silhouettes. Prizes were awarded for categories such as Best in Show, Most Creative, and Best Vintage Inspired. Bella da Ba, a local drag performer known for her over-the-top style, hosted the event and provided entertainment throughout the evening.

  • The Kaftan Party Contest took place on February 13, 2026 as part of Modernism Week in Palm Springs.
  • Modernism Week is an annual event that runs for 11 days in mid-February.

The players

Bella da Ba

A local drag icon known for her bold, vintage-inspired fashion sense who hosted the Kaftan Party Contest.

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What they’re saying

“The Kaftan Party is always the highlight of Modernism Week for me. It's a chance to really embrace the city's love of mid-century style and let your creativity shine.”

— Bella da Ba, Kaftan Party Host (nbcpalmsprings.com)

What’s next

Modernism Week will continue with a series of home tours, lectures, and other events celebrating Palm Springs' iconic architecture and design through February 23, 2026.

The takeaway

The Kaftan Party at Modernism Week underscores Palm Springs' enduring reputation as a hub of mid-century modern style, where residents and visitors alike embrace bold, retro-inspired fashion as a way to celebrate the city's unique aesthetic.