The Different Styles of Abayas in the Arab World: A Complete Guide for Women

The abaya is a traditional dress worn by women in many Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates , Qatar , Morocco, Iran, and others. This long dress is often associated with the Islamic religion, but it is also worn by women of different faiths and cultures, as a symbol of modesty and elegance .

To start, if you are looking for tips on how to wear your abaya in a stylish way in summer, I invite you to check out our article dedicated to this topic. We have collected practical tips to stay cool and comfortable while wearing an abaya, even in hot weather. Don't hesitate to take a look to discover our summer fashion tips!

In this article, we will explore the different styles of abayas worn in the Arab world, starting with the most well-known and popular ones. We will also discuss recent influences and developments in abayas design, as well as tips for choosing an abaya that suits your body type and personal style.

Let's start by discovering the different styles of abayas in the Arab world.

The different styles of abayas in the Arab world:

1. Saudi Abaya : The Saudi abaya is one of the most popular and well-known styles. It is usually black, with intricate and colorful embroidery designs on the cuffs, collar, and front of the dress. Saudi abayas are often made from lightweight fabrics such as georgette or chiffon, which are perfect for the hot and humid climates of the region.
2. Emirati Abaya : The Emirati abaya is a long, loose-fitting dress, characterized by a straight cut and wide sleeves. It is often made from high-quality fabrics, such as silk, satin, or cotton. Emirati abayas are often decorated with intricate patterns, lace, and embroidery, which can cover the entire dress or be concentrated on the cuffs and collar.
3. Qatari Abaya : The Qatari abaya is similar to the Saudi abaya, but has a more fitted cut, with a cinched waist and a slit at the back for ease of movement. It is often made from lightweight fabrics, such as cotton or polyester, and is decorated with intricate embroidery and beading.
4. Moroccan Abaya : The Moroccan abaya is often made from lightweight, flowing fabrics, such as chiffon or satin, which allows for easy and comfortable movement. It is characterized by loose sleeves, a V-neck, and a straight cut with a slit in the front or sides for ease of movement. Moroccan abayas are often decorated with intricate embroidery , geometric patterns, and beading, which add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dress.
5. Iranian Abaya : The Iranian abaya is also known as a "chador", and is often worn by Iranian women as a symbol of modesty and decency. It consists of a large cloth sheet that covers the entire body, with an opening for the face. Iranian chadors are often made from high-quality fabrics, such as silk or velvet, and may be decorated with floral patterns and embroidery.
6. Modern Abayas : Over the years, abayas have evolved to fit current fashion trends, while maintaining their traditional essence . Modern abayas are characterized by more fitted cuts, original designs, and bright colors. They can also be made from different materials, such as denim, leather, and even tulle.

In conclusion, abayas are a traditional and elegant outfit worn by women in the Arab world. Each country has its own styles and designs, which undergo its culture and traditions. Whether you are looking for an abaya for a special occasion or for everyday use, it is important to choose a dress that suits your body type and personal style. In the next part of this article, we will talk about tips for choosing the right abaya for you.

On the other hand, if you are looking for an abaya that will perfectly suit your style and body shape, we will introduce you to our collection of abayas. We have selected for you a range of elegant and modern models, made from high-quality materials. Whether you are looking for an abaya for a special occasion or for everyday use, we are sure that you will find what you are looking for in our collection. So, do not hesitate to take a look.