📅 Updated on July 5, 2026 — Written by Nora MASTAN from the SOOTRASHOP team

⏱ Reading time: 12 minutes.

The abaya is the most widely worn modest garment by Muslim women in France and worldwide. Whether you're looking to buy your first abaya, choose the right size, find the best fabric for the season in crepe, Nidha, or Medina silk, or learn how to care for your abaya without damaging it, you've come to the right place.

This comprehensive 2026 guide covers all topics: the history of the abaya, the different types (kimono, closed abaya, embroidered Dubai abaya, bell-cut abaya, Farasha abaya, bisht), how to choose your abaya according to your body shape, a size guide in inches, the best fabrics for summer and winter, care tips, and how to coordinate an abaya with a hijab.

Navigate through our themes to master every facet of this emblematic piece:

What is an abaya? Definition and origin:

An abaya (in Arabic: عباية, 'abāyah) is a traditional long, loose, and flowing dress, originating from the Arabian Peninsula, worn primarily by women, either alone or over their daily clothes. It is the centerpiece of modest fashion.

Origin of the abaya: where does this traditional garment come from?

The origin of the abaya dates back more than 4,000 years to the heart of ancient Mesopotamian and Arabian Peninsula civilizations. In pre-Islamic times, this loose and protective traditional garment was used by nomadic populations to cope with the climate and extreme desert conditions.

From traditional abaya to modern Haute Couture abaya:

The transition from the traditional abaya to the modern abaya occurred thanks to the rise of modest fashion. Once a black and minimalist piece, it has become a Haute Couture item available in luxurious fabrics (Nidha, crepe, silk), varied cuts (kimono, butterfly, bell-cut) and refined ornaments such as embroidery, beading…

The comparative table below highlights this technical and stylistic transition:

The abaya internationally: how it conquered global Modest Fashion

The international abaya has conquered global modest fashion by transcending the borders of the Middle East. Driven by global demand for modest fashion, the abaya has integrated into Western wardrobes and the capsule collections of major luxury houses like Dolce & Gabbana, Yves-Saint-Laurent, establishing itself as a symbol of universal elegance.

👉  To learn all about the origins and evolution of the abaya, consult our complete guide

What are the different types of abayas? The cuts explained

• The butterfly abaya (farasha): Recognized by its ultra-wide sleeves, it offers maximum fluidity and perfectly conceals the body's shape.
• The Dubai abaya: Recognizable by its high-end style, it is often open and richly adorned with rhinestones, fine embroidery, or elegant pearls.
• The kimono abaya: A modern cut, completely open at the front, ideal for layering over a casual outfit or an underdress.
• The classic abaya (straight): The traditional closed, timeless, and clean-lined cut, which falls straight to the ankles for simple everyday comfort.
• The classic black abaya remains the best-selling and most versatile model. Timeless and easy to match with all hijabs, it comes in crepe for daily wear, Nidha for special occasions, and satin for ceremonies.

Summary table: Which type of abaya for which occasion?

👉 To choose the abaya type suitable for your body shape and occasion, consult our complete guide: How to choose your abaya according to your body shape

Open or closed abaya: which to choose?

The closed abaya is ideal for daily wear and prayer (full coverage, can be put on in 5 seconds). The open abaya is suitable for outings and ceremonies (versatile, worn layered). Choose according to the occasion.

Comparison table: Open abaya vs Closed abaya:

Ready to reinvent your style?

👉 Explore our new collection and find the open or closed abaya that will enhance your look today. View our entire collection

Saudi, Turkish, Moroccan or French Abaya: A Guide to Styles by Country

Abaya styles vary by country: the Saudi abaya favors maximum volume and the traditional butterfly cut; the Turkish abaya offers fitted lines inspired by the trench coat; the Moroccan abaya incorporates the artisanal know-how of the caftan (Sfifa); and the French abaya reinvents modest fashion through chic and refined minimalism.

Embroidered, plain, or belted abaya: how to choose for the occasion?

Your outfit choice depends on the event: an embroidered abaya (Dubai style), adorned with rhinestones or pearls, is the centerpiece for weddings and celebrations. A plain abaya offers timeless and comfortable minimalism for daily wear or the office, while a belted abaya elegantly structures the silhouette for dinners.

How to choose your abaya: the 5 essential criteria

• Fabric: Select the material according to its use, such as crepe or Nidha for daily wear, and breathable linen or cotton for summer.
• Cut: Adapt the silhouette to your needs (butterfly for maximum amplitude, straight for classicism, or kimono for layering).
• Length: Measure from shoulder to ankle to ensure the garment does not drag on the ground or is too short with heels.
• Occasion: Distinguish between streamlined, minimalist models for everyday wear and ornate Dubai versions with rhinestones for special events.
• Color: Opt for timeless neutral and dark tones, or pastel and light shades to brighten your summer outfits.

Summary: The summary table for choosing your abaya:

How to choose the right abaya size? 

To choose the correct abaya size, the essential measurement is your stature (total height), from shoulders to ankles. Abaya sizes generally follow the Emirati system in inches (from 52 to 62). For a perfect drape, simply measure your height in centimeters and refer to the brand's official size guide.

Official abaya size correspondence chart:
To make your life easier and serve as a reference during each shopping session, here is the universal correspondence chart. It cross-references your stature, the item's size, and the actual fabric length in centimeters.

Which type of abaya to choose based on your body shape

To enhance your figure, adapt the cut to your body shape: a belted abaya flatters defined waists (X or 8 shape), a butterfly abaya balances wide hips (A shape), an open kimono abaya structures the shoulders (V shape), and straight, flowing cuts are ideal for H and O shapes.

Summary table: Body shape, Ideal cut and Recommended fabric
To help you make the perfect choice at a glance during your next shopping session, here is a complete summary of our expert advice:

👉  To learn more about choosing according to your body shape: Consult our complete guide abaya and body shape 

The impact of size and stature for choosing your abaya (Petite VS Tall)

Petite women should prefer straight or belted abayas with heels to elongate the silhouette without being overwhelmed by the fabric. Conversely, tall women look magnificent in loose cuts like the butterfly cut or kimono, paying attention to the overall length. Plus-size women will prefer straight, flowing cuts in Nidha fabric.

👉 To find your perfect size in 5 seconds, use our free size simulator.

Which abaya to choose for the occasion? (Ramadan, Eid, Wedding, Hajj, Umrah)

Each occasion calls for a specific outfit: choose a white, grey, or black cotton abaya for Hajj and Umrah to ensure coolness and opacity. A Dubai abaya embroidered with rhinestones or pearls is the showpiece for weddings and Eid, while a simple butterfly abaya or a casual model offers ideal comfort for Ramadan.

Which fabric to choose for your abaya

The choice of fabric depends on the season and use: for everyday wear, crepe or Nidha fabric offers a heavy, fluid, and wrinkle-resistant drape. For summer, opt for the natural coolness of linen and cotton. Finally, for special occasions, Medina silk and satin provide incomparable elegance.

How to choose your abaya according to your budget? (Cheap VS Luxury)

The choice of your abaya depends on your budget and intended use: for an affordable and inexpensive abaya (between 30€ and 60€), opt for light fabrics like Jazz or micro-crepe, perfect for everyday wear. For a luxury abaya (over 150€), invest in premium Nidha fabric or silk, with artisanal handmade embroidery.

The Ramadan abaya, the Eid abaya, and the Hajj-Umrah abaya

Each significant moment of the spiritual year has an ideal outfit, combining respect for modesty (modest fashion) with the comfort necessary for devotion. Discover the three pillars of the Muslim woman's wardrobe.

The Ramadan Abaya:

For Ramadan, choose a light, fluid, and wrinkle-resistant abaya: the butterfly cut (farasha) or casual models in crepe, Jazz, or Wool Peach fabric are ideal. These materials offer total comfort for Tarawih prayers and Iftar evenings with family.
• The style: The farasha butterfly abaya or casual cuts.
• The fabric: Fluid and wrinkle-resistant materials like crepe, Nidha, Jazz, or Wool Peach.
• To discover all our advice on cuts, soothing colors, and our care guide for the holy month:
👉 Read the full article: How to choose your Ramadan Abaya (coming soon)

The Eid Abaya:

For Eid, wear your most beautiful Dubai-style abaya.

• The fabric: Noble materials like silk satin or superior Nidha, adorned with fine embroidery or rhinestones.

To learn how to match your festive hijab and discover this year's trends:
👉 Read the full article: Finding the perfect Eid Abaya

The Hajj-Umrah Abaya:

For Hajj and Umrah, choose a classic closed abaya in cotton or linen: these natural fibers guarantee total opacity and maximum breathability in the intense heat of Mecca and Medina, while respecting the dress requirements of the pilgrimage.
• The style: The classic, straight, and streamlined closed abaya.
• The fabric: Cotton and Linen ensuring 100% opacity and high breathability.
• To know everything about dress requirements in Medina and Mecca (zippered pockets, choice of white or black):
👉 Read the full article: The Umrah and Hajj Abaya guide (coming soon)

Abaya fabrics: which material to choose?

To choose the best abaya fabric, opt for fluid, opaque, and wrinkle-resistant materials. Premium crepe is the high-end queen material: it offers a heavy, wrinkle-resistant drape perfect for everyday wear. Nidha, an excellent luxury fabric, is fluid, light, and silky. Medina silk provides an elegant matte finish, while Jazz stands out with its very practical crimped appearance.

Large Comparative Table: Which fabric to choose for your abaya?
To help you make your choice at a glance according to your needs, here is our technical summary:

👉  Read our complete guide: The best fabrics for abayas (in progress).

Crepe fabric is considered the king of abayas due to its unique properties: it offers total opacity (100% opaque), a heavy and fluid drape that does not show body contours, excellent wrinkle resistance, and exceptional durability through washes, making it the ideal material for everyday wear as well as special occasions.

Comparison table: Which type of crepe to choose according to your needs?

Why choose a cotton or linen summer abaya?

Choosing a cotton or linen summer abaya is ideal for hot weather due to their breathable and thermoregulating properties. These natural fibers effectively absorb moisture and allow air to circulate, thus preventing perspiration. They guarantee a continuous feeling of freshness while maintaining perfect opacity.

How to care for your abaya: Washing, drying, and ironing

• Washing: Opt for a delicate cycle or wash inside out at a maximum of 30°C to preserve the textile fibers.
• Drying: Hang your wet abaya directly on a hanger in the open air to avoid using a tumble dryer.
• Ironing: Use a vertical steamer or a low heat iron to remove wrinkles without scorching the fabric.

Specific care guide by fabric type

Each textile has its own technical signature. This summary table will serve as a reference for caring for your abayas.

Crepe Fabric

Machine (delicate cycle) or hand wash

30°C maximum

Easy (steamer or low iron)

Nidha

Hand wash preferred

Cold / 30°C

Very gentle inside out or steam

Medina Silk

Machine wash in a protective mesh bag

30°C maximum

Low iron without steam (avoid stains)

Cotton / Linen

Machine (normal program)

30°C to 40°C

Hot iron (crease-prone material)

Models with rhinestones

Hand wash mandatory

Warm / cold water

Inside out only (avoid rhinestones)

How to care for and wash a crepe fabric abaya?

For washing a crepe fabric abaya, prefer hand washing at a maximum of 30°C on a delicate cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid tumble drying. Let it dry on a hanger in the open air: its wrinkle-resistant property will save you the ironing step.

How to store and organize your abayas in your wardrobe?

To store your abayas, it's essential to hang them on wide or padded hangers to avoid marking the shoulders. Organize them by length or color in a high wardrobe space so that the fabric does not drag on the floor. For delicate rhinestone models, use a breathable protective cover.

Absolutely avoid thin metal wire hangers that cut into the shoulders and distort fluid fabrics under their weight. Also, avoid hangers with rigid clips, which leave embedded marks and crush the fibers of Medina Silk. Opt for wide non-slip velvet or rounded wooden hangers, which respect the natural curve of the shoulders.

Abaya and hijab: how to coordinate them with style?

• To coordinate abaya and hijab harmoniously: match materials (matte crepe + fluid silk hijab), play with monochrome or contrast, and avoid combining two thick materials simultaneously.
  Monochrome: Wear an abaya and hijab of the exact same color to lengthen the silhouette and achieve a chic minimalist look.
• Harmonious contrast: Combine a dark abaya (black, navy blue) with a light or pastel colored hijab (powder pink, nude) to brighten the face.
• Playing with materials: Mix textures by combining a matte crepe fabric abaya with a fluid Medina silk hijab to create relief.

Where to buy a quality abaya in France, Belgium and Europe?

To buy a high-quality abaya in France, Belgium or Europe, choose online stores specializing in Abayas rather than general low-cost marketplaces. Specialized French e-commerce sites guarantee a rigorous selection of fabrics (authentic Korean Nidha, premium crepe, opaque Medina silk) as well as local customer service. 

Buying from a specialized e-commerce store offers three major advantages:

• Transparent technical specifications: You know the exact composition, density, and opacity level of the fabric (for example, the weight of a Dubai crepe…).
• A size guide adapted to Europe: Inch lengths are strictly converted to centimeters relative to the average height of women in Europe, thereby limiting the risk of error.
• Local and secure logistics: You benefit from fast delivery (often within 48 to 72 hours) via Colissimo, Mondial Relay or Chronopost in France, Belgium, Europe and the Maghreb, with a simplified return policy in case of a size error.

Buy an abaya online in France, our guarantees

Whether you are looking for an abaya for plus-size women, a large-size abaya, or a small-size abaya, our store offers abayas delivered in France within 3 to 5 business days. Each order comes with a personalized size guide and a 30-day return policy.

Abaya delivery in Belgium, Switzerland, and the Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia)

Sootrashop.com delivers abayas to Belgium in 4 to 6 business days, to Switzerland in 5 to 7 days, and to the Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia) in 4 to 7 days via DHL and FedEx. Delivery is free for purchases over €150. Returns are accepted within 14 days in all these countries.

Finding the rare gem of Modest Fashion should never come with delivery stress. Whether you are in Paris, Brussels, Geneva, or Casablanca, our abaya store has completely optimized its customer experience and logistics to deliver to you with complete peace of mind.

An order in 3 clicks: A smooth process, a dynamic size guide, and 100% secure payment (Credit Card, PayPal, Apple Pay).

Absolute serenity: A flexible return policy (Satisfied or Refunded within 14 days) to try on your abaya at home with peace of mind.

How to recognize a reliable abaya online store?

A reliable abaya store specifies the exact fabric composition, offers a height-based size chart, displays verified customer reviews, and guarantees an unconditional return policy. Be wary of websites without mention of textile composition or clear return policy.

Frequently asked questions about the abaya (FAQ): Everything you need to know

We have grouped together in this FAQ the frequently asked questions women have about the world of the abaya. Our goal is to provide clear and immediate answers to guide you in your abaya purchase and shed light on this exceptional garment.

To go further: consult our detailed guides

📝 Article written by Nora MASTAN — SOOTRASHOP Team | Complete abaya guide 2026