The abaya is perhaps the most versatile garment in a Muslimah's wardrobe. Far from being a single-purpose piece, a well-chosen abaya can be styled to suit virtually any occasion — from a casual school run to an elegant wedding reception. The secret lies in understanding the different styles, fabrics, and styling techniques available to you.

What's the Difference Between Open and Closed Abayas?

This is one of the most common questions we get asked — and it's an important one:

  • Closed Abayas slip over the head and cover the full body from shoulder to floor. They provide maximum coverage, making them ideal for prayer, more conservative social settings, or when layering over simply dressed outfits. They tend to have a cleaner, more streamlined silhouette.
  • Open Abayas (also called front-open abayas or kimono abayas) fasten or sit open at the front, revealing whatever is worn underneath. This creates a beautiful layered look and gives you more flexibility with what you wear beneath. An open abaya over wide-leg trousers and a smart top is a modern, fashion-forward combination.

How to Style an Abaya for Everyday Wear

The key to a great everyday abaya look is keeping it effortless. Here's what works:

  • Choose a breathable fabric like crepe, jersey, or soft cotton for all-day comfort.
  • A neutral palette — black, navy, charcoal, camel — creates easy, mix-and-match styling.
  • Keep accessories minimal: a simple hijab in a coordinating tone, clean trainers or loafers, and a structured tote bag.
  • An open abaya worn over a matching two-piece set creates a put-together look with very little effort.

How to Style an Abaya for Work

Modest professional dressing is an art form, and the abaya is perfectly suited to a polished work look:

  • Choose structured fabrics like ponte or woven crepe that hold their shape throughout the day.
  • Darker, solid colours read as professional and authoritative — black, deep navy, slate grey, and chocolate brown all work well.
  • Add a belt at the waist to create definition and a more tailored silhouette.
  • A matching or tonal hijab in a quality fabric like modal or viscose jersey elevates the look without distracting from your overall presence.
  • Keep footwear smart: block-heeled courts or smart pointed flats finish the look neatly.

How to Style an Abaya for a Wedding or Special Occasion

This is where you can really have fun. For weddings, Eid celebrations, or formal events:

  • Reach for embellished abayas — those featuring beading, lace, sequin trim, or intricate embroidery are designed to make a statement.
  • Luxury fabrics like chiffon, satin, and velvet photograph beautifully and have a natural elegance that elevates any look.
  • Opt for colour — dusty rose, emerald green, midnight blue, or rich burgundy are all stunning choices for evening occasions.
  • Drape a chiffon hijab loosely for a softer, more romantic aesthetic. Add hijab pins in a matching metallic tone.
  • Strappy heeled sandals, a beaded clutch, and subtle gold jewellery complete the look.

"An embellished abaya is the modest fashion equivalent of a cocktail dress — effortlessly elegant, endlessly appropriate."

Can I Wear an Abaya to the Gym or for Active Days?

Absolutely. The modest activewear and sports abaya category has grown enormously in recent years. Look for abayas made from stretch jersey or technical fabrics that offer freedom of movement. A shorter, midi-length open abaya worn over modest activewear — leggings and a long-sleeved top — is both practical and stylish for lower-impact activities. For high-intensity workouts, purpose-made modest sportswear may be a better option.

What Shoes Work Best With an Abaya?

The beauty of an abaya's full-length silhouette is that almost any shoe works — the choice depends on the occasion:

  • Trainers / sneakers — Ideal for casual, everyday wear. White chunky trainers with a black abaya have become a modern modest fashion staple.
  • Ballet flats or loafers — Smart, comfortable, and perfect for work or daytime events.
  • Heeled sandals or mules — Elegant and occasion-appropriate. A strappy gold or nude sandal works beautifully with most colours.
  • Block-heeled boots — Great under a shorter or mid-calf abaya during cooler UK months.