When we think of the abaya, it’s easy to imagine it as a straightforward garment, maybe even simple or subdued. But if you ask any woman who regularly wears an abaya, she’ll tell you it’s anything but plain. 

The abaya, especially the open abaya, is a beautiful canvas for self-expression, blending tradition and personal style in a way that celebrates modesty without sacrificing flair. 

Wearing an abaya is about embracing modest clothing, but modest doesn’t mean mundane. An open abaya can bring as much personality to an outfit as any trendy jacket or outerwear.

Here are five exclusive tips for styling your open abaya:

Pair it With a Matching Belt

Adding a belt to an open abaya is one of the simplest ways to switch up your look. A belt helps give a bit of structure and lets you adjust the fit, making it feel like a totally different piece. 

Try a simple leather or fabric belt that goes with the colour of your abaya, or even a neutral colour like black or brown. When you wrap the belt around your waist, it instantly adds shape and makes the whole outfit look a little more intentional.

This is an easy go-to for when you want to look polished but don’t have time to think about it. So next time you buy abaya online, look for ones that come with a matching belt, or just find one in your closet that works with what you already have.

Rock It with Pants or Jeans

An open abaya doesn’t mean you must always wear a dress underneath. In fact, throwing it over a pair of pants or jeans can give it a fresh, everyday look that’s comfortable and easy to wear. 

It doesn't matter if you go for skinny jeans, wide-leg trousers, or even tailored pants; you’ll get a look that’s modest but feels modern and casual.

This is perfect for running errands, meeting friends, or any other time when you want to feel comfortable but still look put-together. Just a simple top, some jeans, and your open abaya can be all you need to pull together a clean, stylish look without much effort. 

Accessorise, But Don’t Overdo It

You don’t need a ton of accessories to make an abaya look good, but a few pieces can go a long way. You could just add a small necklace, a few bracelets, or even a simple scarf. A classic watch or a pair of hoop earrings can give your outfit a little extra without being over-the-top. When it comes to shoes, a pair of flats or low heels usually does the trick.

The abaya itself is usually the statement piece, so let it be the main focus and keep the accessories to a few that work with your look.

Use It as a Kimono Over a Dress

If you have a dress you love but want a little extra coverage, wearing an open abaya over it can be an easy fix. It works especially well with simple dresses that don’t have a lot of patterns. 

Just throw on the abaya like you would a kimono, and you’ve got a layered look that feels modest but still shows off your dress.

Wrapping Up

The best part about an open abaya is that it’s truly versatile. It’s one of those pieces that you can style in a hundred different ways.