The abaya (Arabic: عباية ʿabāyah, meaning “cloak”) is a long, loose-fitting dress with wide sleeves, traditionally worn by Muslim women to cover the entire body in accordance with Islamic dress codes. The abaya has evolved from its classic black design to an impressive variety of colours and embellishments, ranging from understated elegance to luxurious splendour. Whether chosen as a simple option for everyday wear or as an elegant outfit for special occasions, the abaya is often complemented with a hijab to complete the look.
Today’s abayas come in a variety of styles and materials:
- Open abayas are ideal for layering over jeans or dresses.
- Luxury abayas include hand-stitched embellishments and couture-level tailoring.
- Cotton and linen abayas offer breathable comfort for warmer climates or everyday ease.
- Embellished, bridal, or wedding abayas suit formal occasions while preserving modesty and grace.
The abaya now stands at the heart of the global modest fashion movement, embraced not only for its religious significance but also for its sophisticated versatility.