Carrying an

CARRYING AN ABAYA WITH CLASS IS NOT EVERYBODY’S CUP OF TEA

YOU WILL FIND AN ABAYA AS LOW AS $16 HOWEVER, A LUXURIOUS ABAYA WAS PRICED AT $16MILLION

By Sidra Asif

The Arabic attire Abaya is an ankle-length robe similar to kaftan or long tunic. It is believed that this robe has existed more than 4,000 years before. The history of abaya might be vague and unclear but it goes back to ancient civilization when women used to wear loosely fitted garments. Afterward, the religion of Islam came into existence and brought up the idea of modest clothing for women. Gradually the conventional and traditional attire turned into a fashion statement.

In the present era, the abaya is not just the heavy black robe; rather it comes in many shapes, forms, designs, and styles. Brands from Dubai, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and from all around the world have taken the abaya clothing line by storm. Since the beginning of 2000 couturier starts playing with fashion techniques. Now the new couture ideas have created a phenomenal piece of inspiration that has taken this industry to a new level. The best thing about this fashion is that it varies for every kind of people. Those who can’t afford it can go for affordable prices. Many women wish for simple designs and plain fabric. Conversely, it can be a luxury item if anyone desires to have a catchy and distinct design for formal events. In Gulf countries, mainly in GCC states abaya is no more a tradition rather you can see a silent competition among women wearing the best abaya with trendy cuts and ideas. Women at weddings prefer to wear embroidery abaya with up-to-the-minute styles. Weddings, formal events to special gatherings to important meetings in the Arab Gulf region women have to walk and balance their modesty and keep up the fashion altogether.

The arabic attire ABAYA EXISTED more than 4,000 YEARS BEFORE

Abaya sometimes called “abba” doesn’t attention. Designers have been exper- linen, jersey, satin, silk, and georgette. only differ among people but also varies imenting with colors, fabrics, shapes, The prices vary on the weight and qualamong countries. Every country’s design- and designs. Abaya itself a complete ity of that fabric and the embroidery, ers attach tradition and culture to their outfit, you need nothing else with it. stones that are used in. outfits. Abaya in UAE will reflect their fashion and styles, while in Morocco Luxury brands You will find an abaya as low as $16 however a luxI remember while choosing abaya for the first time for myself. Apart from all different trends will be in such as DOLCE & urious abaya was priced at embroidered looks I wanted the fabric the exhibition. GABBANA have $16million. The cost of a regular abaya starts from to be light and soft. I opt for modern designs while keeping the classy appear There has been still a mis- their special abaya 200 to 500 dirham while ance in mind. I knew that carrying an understanding regarding this attire as often people line a modern gown ranges from 1000 to onward. A abaya with elegancy is not everyone’s cup of tea. Some people struggle and link this with religious branded designer as long don’t want to put on two pieces of conviction. Contrarily in the Mid- maxi’s, gowns, kaftans are more admired clothing at one time. But where I see I dle East abaya is no more a religious in young girls. In every season the fabric found Abaya much more comfortable. garment. There is an entire industry of the abaya varies. Women living in hot I feel Abaya gives you space where you rising for abaya and modest fashion. countries prefer the cool fabric. Fabri- can walk around any way you want. However, the abaya is not just appeal- cation is the most indispensable part It sounds weird but a meter garment ing to the orthodox Muslims rather while choosing an abaya. The essential gives me the liberty to sit, stand or walk it’s enchanting the whole world’s abaya fabric revolves around Chiffon, around without any hesitation.

Photos courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana