What to wear under an open abaya?

Under an open abaya, you can wear an underslip, a simple dress, or a top and trousers set. The right choice depends on the opening, the fabric's transparency, and the coverage you desire. The base layer must be suitable to be worn alone in the areas that the abaya leaves visible.

Therefore, a successful outfit doesn't just rely on the outer layer. Before choosing your undergarments, check where the abaya opens when you walk, sit, and extend your arms. Our guide open or closed abaya explains the construction differences.

The underslip: a continuous base

The underslip offers a simple line under an abaya. To choose it well, check its length, neckline, and armholes. A sleeveless model may be suitable under certain abayas, but it doesn't meet all needs if the outer sleeves are very open or transparent.

The underslip should not ride up uncomfortably when you walk. Also try it on while sitting: a fabric that seems loose enough when standing might pull at the thighs. If the abaya has a slit, check the visible area from the side, not just from the front.

The top and trousers: another way to compose the outfit

A set allows you to adjust the top and bottom separately, which can be practical if you wear two different sizes. Ensure the top remains long enough for the desired effect when you raise your arms. Examine the waistband of the trousers and any visible bulk under the abaya.

A loose fit might appeal to you, but too much layered fabric risks bunching up. Start with a simple base and test the drape of the outer layer. The goal is not to wear the maximum volume, but to find a comfortable combination.

Check the opacity of the complete outfit

A dark color does not guarantee opacity, and a partial lining does not necessarily cover the sleeves. Check the entire outfit in daylight, facing and then with your back to a window. Wear the intended undergarments to judge the actual look, while preserving the garment's condition during trying on.

Look at stretched areas: chest, hips, knees when sitting. If the base becomes too transparent when stretched, choose a different cut or material rather than relying on the abaya to remain perfectly still.

Coordinate necklines and sleeves

With a hijab, check together the neckline of the base and how you drape the veil. A movement can reveal an opening that wasn't visible in the mirror. Test the outfit by turning your head and leaning slightly.

At the wrists, avoid uncomfortable build-ups of seams, cuffs, and embellishments. If the base is intentionally visible, harmonize its color with the rest of the outfit. If you prefer it to remain discreet, choose its proportions accordingly.

Manage layering according to temperature

Three thin layers are not automatically more comfortable than a single suitable base. Consider the lining, fullness, and where you will spend the day. When fabric information is available, compare compositions; otherwise, ask for missing details.

Our article on summer abayas, their fabric, and opacity delves deeper into this choice. The advice should be adapted to your personal feel: there is no single material that suits everyone and every situation.

Plan your order contents and budget

A photograph may show an underslip, a hijab, and a belt without all these items being sold together. Read the list of included items and the selected variant. If a base is sold separately, include it in the budget before comparing two abayas.

To avoid isolated purchases, choose a base compatible with several outfits using our guide to the abaya capsule wardrobe. You can then compare models from our abaya collection based on your actual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions