Everyday Abaya Style Tips - Effortlessly Fashionable & Modest

An Introduction to Everyday Abayas

The abaya is a traditional full-length outer garment worn by many Muslim women. Known for its modest and conservative style, the abaya is often seen as a symbol of faith and devotion. While some abayas are highly embellished for formal events, the everyday abaya is designed to be simple, comfortable, and practical for daily wear.

The everyday abaya offers Muslim women a way to stay stylish yet modest as they go about their daily activities. Choices in color, fabric, and silhouette make the everyday abaya versatile and modern. Its flowing fabric allows for ease of movement while covering the body in a loose yet tasteful manner.

Key Features of the Everyday Abaya

Here are some of the defining features of contemporary everyday abayas:

• Full-length design that typically falls to the feet or ankles
• Long sleeves that fully cover the arms
• Loose fit through the body for comfort and modesty
• High neckline and optional hood or headscarf
• Made from breathable fabrics like cotton, jersey, or linen for daily wear
• Simple styling with minimal embellishments
• Easy pullover design with front opening
• Variety of colors and patterns
• Machine washable care for convenience

Fabric Choices for Everyday Abayas

The fabric chosen for an everyday abaya makes a major impact on its style and comfort. Here are some top options:

• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and natural cotton is a popular choice. It provides great ease of movement and air flow.
• Jersey: Stretch jersey has a drapey, casual look. It hugs curves modestly while being very comfortable.
• Linen: Lightweight linen works well for warm weather. It has a relaxed vibe and texture.
• Crepe: Flowy crepe maintains volume and shape. It resists wrinkles and holds color well.
• Chiffon: Sheer, airy chiffon makes a romantic statement. It pairs beautifully with maxi dress abayas.

Everyday Abaya Silhouettes

Abayas come in a variety of shapes and silhouettes perfect for everyday wear:

• Maxi: The classic maxi falls floor length with a billowing skirt.
• Column: A column silhouette is fitted through the hips then flows straight down.
• Kaftan: Loose and breezy with vent side slits, the kaftan abaya is effortlessly stylish.
• Tunic: Sporty tunic abayas have a shirt-dress shape ending above the ankle.
• Duster: Open-front duster abayas pair perfectly over jeans or leggings.

Everyday Abaya Styling Tips

While staying faithful to principles of modesty, Muslim women have plenty of ways to look chic in their everyday abayas. Here are some top styling tips:

Choose Colors Strategically

Color makes a major style statement. Go for neutral earth tones for maximum versatility or make a bold choice like jewel tones, pastels or black for a more dramatic look. Having abayas in a variety of colors ensures you'll always have something to match your mood or outfit.

Layer With Long Cardigans

Pairing a long cardigan sweater over your abaya adds extra coverage and warmth. Opt for lightweight open-front cardigans that complement your abaya's color and fabric. They'll give you more styling options while respecting modesty traditions.

Cinch In With Belts

Adding a belt is an easy way to define your waistline in an elegant manner. Slim leather belts or wider obi-style wraps give shape and polish to abaya outfits. Make sure the belt is tied comfortably above your natural waistline in keeping with modesty guidelines.

Include Pretty Hijabs

A stylish hijab brings any abaya ensemble to the next level. Play with different hijab wraps, fabrics and prints to show your unique personal flair. Try a turban style for street chic or intricate pleats for formal occasions. The options are endless.

Don't Forget the Footwear

Complete your abaya outfits with shoes that pull everything together. Sandals, loafers, oxfords and slip-ons all make comfy, walkable choices. Go for neutral colors or metallics for versatility. Unique but modestly styled footwear makes a lasting impression.

Accessorize Creatively

Small accessories like jewelry, handbags and sunglasses pack a stylish punch. Stick to modest locations like ears, wrists and hands when selecting jewelry. Structured purses or roomy totes balance proportion. Oversized shades add old Hollywood mystique. Have fun and showcase your unique flair!

Abaya Outfit Ideas for Everyday

With the right combo of pieces, putting together head-to-toe looks for your everyday abaya is a breeze. Get inspired by these chic outfit ideas:

Monochrome Magic

A black abaya, black hijab, black sunglasses and black slip-on sneakers create an effortlessly cool vibe. Add a pop of color with your handbag or jewelry.

Earth Tones

Bring on the organic vibes with a sand colored abaya, tan crossbody bag and strappy brown sandals with an oatmeal cotton hijab.

Blue Beauty

Look positively serene in a flowing blue maxi abaya paired with a light blue pashmina shawl hijab, sparkling jewelry and blue ballet flats.

Winter Whites

Keep it crisp in an all-white ensemble featuring a white abaya, sweater, sneakers, tote bag and turban wrap hijab accented with silver accessories.

Cozy Chic

A jersey abaya dress, gray knit cardigan and scarf, calf-high boots and quilted bag makes an effortlessly chic cold weather outfit.

Finding the Perfect Everyday Abaya - Key Considerations

When shopping for an abaya you'll wear regularly, keep these key factors in mind:

• Comfortable fabric: Seek out soft, breathable fabrics that move with you.
• Flattering silhouette: Look for shapes that complement your body type.
• Versatile colors: Neutrals and basics ensure more outfit combinations.
• Professional construction: Check for quality stitching and well-finished hems.
• Machine washable: Everyday abayas need easy care maintenance.
• Modest design: Be sure the abaya provides ample coverage and size options.
• Budget considerations: Having multiple abayas ensures you always have a clean one ready to wear.

Abaya Shopping Recommendations

Here are some top brands and places to shop for stylish, quality everyday abayas:

• Local Islamic boutiques and specialty shops
• Online modest clothing retailers like Haute Hijab and Modanisa
• Etsy for unique handmade options
• Sites and sellers recommended within your community
• Your favorite trusted department or big box stores

Check reviews and return policies before purchasing. Finding an everyday abaya that aligns with your personal style and values will give you confidence to take on anything the day brings!

FAQs

What fabrics are best for everyday abayas?

Breathable fabrics like cotton, jersey, and linen that are soft, lightweight, and easy to care for make great choices for daily wear abayas.

What are some tips for styling an everyday abaya?

Style your abaya with layers like cardigans and scarves, use belts to define your waist, and accessorize with jewelry, bags, sunglasses, and footwear. Play with different colors and patterns too.

What is the most versatile abaya silhouette?

The maxi abaya is the most classic and versatile silhouette that works for many body types. It provides great coverage while being comfortable and easy to style.

Where can I shop for affordable everyday abayas?

Check local boutiques, online modest retailers, Etsy, recommendations from your community, and major department stores for quality abayas at different budget points.

How can I care for my everyday abayas?

Look for machine washable abayas made from easy care fabrics. Follow washing instructions and hang to dry to maximize the life of your everyday abayas.