Open Abaya is an ankle-length robe used by many modest women across the globe. It could easily be mistaken as a kimono as it has many identical features. Its loose and long fit makes it a modest yet fashionable garment as it comes in a broad selection of colours, designs, prints, and embellishments. Traditionally, the abaya is a simple black cloak-like garment that is worn on its own and is usually plain. But times have changed with many emerging designers taking a different approach to the abaya, including an open abaya.
An abaya that comes with an open front can be styled on its own like a robe that you throw over another outfit, or with a matching belt to cinch the waist for a more figure-hugging outfit. Using accessories such as belts can add a different look to the design of the abaya but still allow yourself to look modest as the abaya is ankle-length and designed to be loose. There is no hard rule on how you should style your abaya. Whichever your styling preference is, just be sure that you are comfortable with your choice of outfit!
With an open abaya, you can simply wear a simple white slip dress underneath and it will match a variety of open abaya colours such as navy, grey, or cream. And some open abayas would also include buttons or zippers on the fronts, allowing you to wear them on their own when it is fully buttoned or zipped. Hence, the open abaya is usually a popular choice as it is a versatile piece that could be styled in multiple ways for different occasions. For instance, a basic black open abaya can change your outfit from day to night, and from casual to formal. It looks incredibly stylish when styled well with or without its belt.
Below are some of the best outfit suggestions that can be used with a front-open abaya:
- With a dress
Abaya which is open from the front can be used with a maxi or midi dress in different patterns and textures. For example, you can wear a contrasting dress like orange to match your blue abaya, which will certainly add a pop of colour to your outfit. Or if you are less bold with colours, you can wear a black abaya with a black dress that has a different texture or is made from a different fabric as this will create a separation between the two clothing items. The latter could give a stylish alternative for evening wear, especially when it is matched with the correct pair of heels and accessories, and a beautiful clutch or handbag.
- With a belt
Wearing your open abaya with its matching belt or a sash of your choice is a popular fashion trend. An open abaya worn with a sash can instantly class up any attire from basic to classy and turn heads the right way anywhere you go. It can look sleek or informal, depending on the type of belt that it is styled with. Whether you are wearing it to a coffee date with friends or a casual evening out, consider taking a belt with you to instantly switch from one look to another.
- With a skirt
A maxi or midi skirt paired with a basic top will suit any open abaya. The trick is to select a style based on something that you like because if you are comfortable with what you are wearing, you will subconsciously feel confident and can pull off any outfit! It is your choice whether to add a splash of colour to your ensemble or keep it simple with monochrome colours which are on trend. Alternatively, explore a few various colours to match it with the abaya and see what suits your skin tone best. A lighter-coloured outfit with a darker-coloured abaya, or vice versa, will look fashionable and make each stand out. Pair it with sandals or heels and you are good to go.
- With a pair of jeans or trousers
Wearing a pair of jeans under an abaya is always a good choice for a casual look. It is a great alternative for day events or catching up with friends for a chilled day at a café. You can also match your abaya with trousers for a more formal style. If you have an event in the evening to attend, create another on-the-go outfit by buttoning up your abaya and wearing it with a belt which will complete the evening look perfectly. It is no wonder why the open abaya is a favourite among many!
Conclusion
Regardless of how you choose to style your front-open abaya, your inner outfit can either stand out or if you choose an extravagant open abaya, then let that abaya stand out on its own with a simple inner outfit. The important detail when it comes to matching your open abaya is the choice of fabric. This is the most significant consideration when selecting an outfit to match your abaya. If you choose to wear an all-black outfit, the inner attire will not be noticeable. For example, if you want both the open abaya and the inner outfit to complement each other, a black abaya made from crepe fabric will instantly add a classy look to a black satin dress. Of course, when wearing an all-black outfit, keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately to avoid sweating bullets underneath!
Open abayas are desired by modest women alike, regardless of race or religion. Abayas are traditionally an important norm of the middle eastern culture, but it has now extended to the western world as the open abaya, which looks like a kimono, is often seen on many women, especially during summer. Considering that open abayas can be used on their own or with different outfits of different colours and designs, it is a very versatile piece that can easily transition from day to night and will surely get you a good bang for the buck with their many styling options!
