Abaya FAQs

Common questions about abayas, sizing, styles and care — answered by AMIRIS, a UK modest fashion brand based in Birmingham, England.

What is an abaya?

An abaya is a long, loose-fitting outer garment worn over everyday clothing, most commonly by Muslim women. It covers the body from the shoulders to the ankles with full-length sleeves, and is worn for modesty, for prayer, for everyday wear and for occasions such as Eid, nikahs and weddings. Modern abayas come in a wide range of fabrics and cuts, from plain everyday jersey and linen styles to heavily embellished occasion pieces.

What is the difference between an open abaya and a closed abaya?

A closed abaya is sewn shut down the front and is pulled on over the head, so it is worn as a single complete dress. An open abaya opens all the way down the front like a long coat or kimono, and is worn over an inner dress or slip, often fastened with a belt or tie. Open abayas are easier to layer and quicker to put on over an outfit; closed abayas give a cleaner, uninterrupted silhouette. AMIRIS stocks both — see all abayas or read our open vs closed abaya guide.

What size abaya should I buy?

Abayas are sized by length in inches rather than by UK dress size, because the fit is loose. AMIRIS uses 52, 54, 56 and 58:

• 52 — roughly 5ft to 5ft2
• 54 — roughly 5ft3 to 5ft5
• 56 — roughly 5ft6 to 5ft8
• 58 — roughly 5ft9 and above

Choose by your height rather than your dress size, and size up if you prefer a longer, fuller drape or plan to wear heels.

What is the difference between an abaya, a kaftan and a jilbab?

An abaya is a long outer garment worn over clothing, usually straight or A-line. A kaftan (or caftan) is a looser, wider robe with a flowing cut and wide sleeves, often more decorative and worn as an occasion dress in its own right. A jilbab is a long outer garment that is typically more concealing and often comes as a two-piece with an attached or matching head covering. AMIRIS stocks abayas, luxury kaftans and occasion abayas and matching khimar sets.

Where can I buy abayas in the UK?

AMIRIS is a UK-based modest fashion brand based in Birmingham, England, selling online at amiris.store and shipping across the United Kingdom. The range covers everyday abayas, open and closed abayas, linen and satin abayas, luxury embellished caftans, kids abayas, hijabs, khimars, niqabs, pashmina shawls and thobes.

Does AMIRIS sell kids abayas?

Yes. AMIRIS stocks a dedicated kids abaya range in children's sizing, including the Barin, Negin, Zahra, Hiba, Jannah, Sameera and Zaynab kids styles. Several designs are also available in matching adult sizes — see the Mom & Daughter collection.

What should I wear for Eid, a nikah or a walimah?

For Eid morning and family gatherings, an embellished or satin abaya with a matching scarf strikes the right balance between modest and dressed. For a nikah or walimah, a luxury caftan or heavily embellished occasion abaya in a lighter colour is the usual choice, often with a coordinating inner and belt. For everyday and prayer, a plain jersey, linen or crepe abaya is more practical.

How do I care for and wash an abaya?

Plain jersey, linen and crepe abayas can usually be machine washed cold on a gentle cycle inside out and hung to dry. Satin, chiffon and embellished abayas with crystal, stone or embroidery work should be hand washed cold or dry cleaned, and never wrung out. Iron on low heat on the reverse, and avoid ironing directly over embellishment or lace. Always check the care label on the garment first. Full guide: how to wash and care for an abaya.