Arab open abaya

Types of Arab open abaya

The Arab open abaya is a traditional Middle Eastern women’s dress that is worn specifically in the Gulf States. The style is loose, and it is mainly worn over clothing. Unlike other styles, the front is opened featuring a split that runs from top to bottom. The design is simple, yet it is elegant. They are mainly crafted from black fabric, but other colors are starting to gain popularity. They are commonly worn with a headscarf and other accessories. The abaya symbolizes modesty, and it is a preferred choice for women when going out. Here are some types of Arab open abayas.

• Classic Open Front Abaya

  This style is characterized by a simple design featuring an open front. There are no complex decorations on the abaya, making it suitable for everyday use. This type of abaya blends well with modern and traditional styles. They are ideal for women who prefer a simple yet elegant style. The open front design makes it easy to wear and remove the abaya.

• Embroidered Abaya

  The embroidered abaya comes with elaborate embroidery work on the cuffs, collar, and front split. The embroidery is usually done using a shiny thread that gives the abaya a classy look. This style is suitable for special occasions such as weddings, and it can also be worn for other ceremonies. Wearing the embroidered abaya makes a statement and portrays the wearer as a confident woman.

• Printed Open Front Abaya

  Abaya with prints comes with various patterns and prints on the fabric. The prints can be floral, geometric, or abstract. This style is ideal for women who want to portray their personality through their attire. Despite the prints, the abaya is still modest and suitable for public wear. The printed abaya is suitable for casual occasions. For the printed abaya, the colors and patterns are limitless.

• Silk Abaya

  Silk abayas are made from silk or silk blended fabric. They are lightweight and have a soft feel. This style is suitable for warm climates. The silk fabric gives the abaya a classy look, making it ideal for formal occasions. Silk abayas are easy to maintain. They are best for women who want to experience the comfort of silk fabric.

• Embroidered Open Front Abaya

  This style features intricate embroidery along the edges, cuffs, and neckline, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Perfect for special occasions or formal events, the embroidered details elevate the abaya to a more luxurious level. The open front design allows for easy layering over any outfit, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

• Silk Open Front Abaya

  Silk open front abayas are made from silk or silk blended fabric. They are lightweight and have a soft feel. This style is suitable for warm climates. The silk fabric gives the abaya a classy look, making it ideal for formal occasions. Silk abayas are easy to maintain. They are best for women who want to experience the comfort of silk fabric.

Design of Arab open abaya

Abayas are available in a variety of designs. Here are some of their designs:

• Embroidered Abaya

  Open abayas with elaborate embroidery are stunning. They stand out in any crowd. Skilled artisans do detailed needlework on these garments. The designs are often floral or geometric. They run along the sleeves, hem, and neckline. The thread used can be gold, silver, or vibrant colors. This adds to the richness of the pattern. The base fabric is usually dark. This makes the embroidery pop out. Wearing an embroidered abaya is a statement of elegance and tradition.

• Lace Trim Abaya

  Arab lace trim open abayas are the epitome of sophistication. They blend modesty with romance. Fine lace adorns the sleeves and edges. It adds a delicate touch to the overall look. The lace patterns are intricate, often floral. They contrast beautifully with the main fabric. Usually, the fabric is a smooth, flowing material that drapes well. This ensures comfort and ease of movement. The lace trim can be subtle or bold, depending on the style. This makes every piece unique. This design is ideal for formal events and everyday wear.

• Beaded Abaya

  Arab open abayas with beads are stunning and luxurious. They have intricate beadwork that catches the eye. The beads come in various colors and sizes. They form patterns on the abaya. This makes it look like a piece of jewelry. The beads are hand-stitched and secure. They can withstand movement and wear. The abaya fabric is usually soft and flows well. This enhances comfort and style. Beaded abayas are ideal for special occasions. They make a statement of elegance and wealth.

• Printed Abaya

  Arab open abayas with prints are a blend of tradition and modernity. They come with vibrant patterns that stand out. The prints can be floral, geometric, or abstract. Skilled artisans print these designs on the fabric. The abayas are usually lightweight and flowy. This ensures comfort in warm climates. The buttonless design offers a casual look. It is easy to wear for daily activities. Printed abayas are a favorite among younger women. They offer a stylish take on the classic abaya.

• Fringe Abaya

  Arab fringe open abayas are a trendy choice for women. They feature tassels or fringes that add movement and flair. The fringe usually runs along the sleeves and hem. This creates a dynamic look. The abaya fabric is soft and drapes well. It provides comfort and style. The open front allows for layering with different outfits. This versatility makes it suitable for casual and formal events. The fringe detail is eye-catching and modern. It appeals to those seeking a contemporary take on traditional attire.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of Arab open abayas

The combination of open abayas with various attires can result in elegant and fashionable appearances. An open abaya can be worn over formal dresses, including evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and prom dresses. The abaya provides modesty while the formal dress is suitable for special occasions. This combination is common among Arab women, who wear them during weddings and other ceremonies. Therefore, they can be easily found in various Arab open abaya designs.

An open abaya can also be worn over a casual dress to enhance its elegance. Casual dresses are suitable for everyday wear, and the open abaya adds a touch of formality to the outfit. This combination is ideal for shopping, going out with friends, or any other casual occasion. An open abaya can also be worn over a maxi dress, which is a long dress that reaches the ankle. Maxi dresses are popular among women because they are comfortable and provide full coverage. The combination of an open abaya and a maxi dress is suitable for work, going out during the day, or any other occasion.

Combining an open abaya with a jumpsuit can also result in a modern and trendy look. Jumpsuits are one-piece outfits that have become popular in recent years. The combination of an open abaya and a jumpsuit is suitable for fashion-forward women who want to make a statement. This combination can be worn to a fashion show, a photoshoot, or any other event that requires a stylish outfit. An open abaya can also be worn over a skirt and blouse, a traditional Middle Eastern outfit. This combination is suitable for cultural events, religious occasions, or any other occasion where modesty is required.

Matching an open abaya can also be done by considering the color scheme. If the dress, jumpsuit, or maxi dress is black, a black open abaya will complement it. However, if the outfit is of a different color, one should choose an abaya that has a color that complements the outfit. For example, if the dress is red, one can choose an abaya that is black or white because these colors go well with red. The same applies to the pattern. If the outfit is floral, one can choose an abaya with a solid pattern to balance the look. However, if the outfit has a solid pattern, one can choose an abaya with a floral pattern to add some flair.

The material of the open abaya also matters when matching it with an outfit. Silk, satin, and lace are formal materials suitable for evening gowns and cocktail dresses. However, cotton, linen, and chiffon are casual materials suitable for everyday wear. Maxi dresses are made of different materials, so the combination with an open abaya depends on the material used to make the dress. Jumpsuits are made of different materials, but the chiffon abayas are the best because they are light and flowy, making them suitable for the jumpsuit's style.

Q&A

Q1: What distinguishes an Arab abaya from an Arabic open abaya?

A1: An Arab abaya is a traditional long, loose-fitting robe worn by women in Arab countries, typically closed and designed to cover the body from head to toe. In contrast, an Arabic open abaya refers to a style where the abaya is left open in the front, often worn over clothing such as dresses or trousers, providing a more modern and versatile look while still maintaining modesty.

Q2: Are Arabic Open Abayas worn over other clothing?

A2: Yes, Arabic open abayas are typically worn over other clothing. They are designed to be worn open, like a coat or cardigan, which allows them to be layered over dresses, skirts, or trousers. This style provides an additional layer of modesty while showcasing the fashion of the underlying garments.

Q3: Are Arabic open abayas suitable for formal occasions?

A3: Many Arabic open abayas are suitable for formal occasions, especially those crafted from high-quality fabrics such as silk, chiffon, or satin and adorned with intricate embroidery, beadwork, or lace. These abayas can be worn with elegant dresses or evening gowns and are appropriate for events such as weddings, galas, or formal dinners.

Q4: How does one style an open abaya for a professional setting?

A4: To style an open abaya for a professional setting, choose a well-tailored, solid-colored abaya made from structured fabrics like crepe or georgette. Wear it over a modest blouse and tailored trousers or a knee-length pencil skirt. Complete the look with closed-toe heels and minimal accessories for a polished and professional appearance.

Q5: Can open abayas be worn casually?

A5: Yes, Arabic open abayas can be worn casually and are an excellent addition to everyday wardrobes. Opt for simpler styles made from comfortable fabrics like cotton or jersey. Wear them over casual dresses, jeans, or leggings. Pair with flat sandals or sneakers for a relaxed and stylish look suitable for shopping, outings with friends, or casual gatherings.