Muslim women wear the Abaya as a symbol of modesty and respect for Islamic principles, covering their bodies save for their faces and hands to maintain dignity and deflect unwelcome attention.
The Prophet (ﷺ) famously said
”Modesty is part of Iman (faith)” (Sahih Muslim)
The Abaya is significant in Islam because it promotes Muslim women in following their religion's norms (The Quran and Hadith), which emphasise modesty and humility
“O prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. It is more suitable that they will be recognised and not be abused. And ever is Allah forgiving and merciful.”
(Surah al-ahzab, verse 59)
Women all throughout the world are embracing the Abaya lifestyle due to their religious devotion to Islam. In Islamic culture, modesty is highly valued, and the Abaya is a symbol of modesty.
The Prophet (ﷺ) famously said in two hadiths
Modesty is part of Iman (faith). (Sahih Muslim)
Modesty does not bring anything but goodness. (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Styling your abaya according to Islamic principles can be an elegant way to show your faith while being stylish and professional, whether you're going to work or school.
1. Neutral Colour
It is very important to select neutral colours for the workplace, like black, navy, charcoal, or earthy tones. Neutral colours are often more modest and less eye-catching. They do not attract undue attention, which is consistent with the Islamic concept of modesty.
2. Hijab and Niqab
The colours of your hijab or niqab should complement or match the colour of your abaya. This results in a more solid and put-together appearance.
3. Accessories:
Enhance the abaya's aesthetics with subtle jewellery and accessories, such as wristwatches, small earrings, and necklaces, for a fresh and stylish look.
4. Bags
Choose a practical and stylish bag, such as a tote or backpack, that's large enough to hold your university materials. As it would be more comfortable for students and working women.
5. Footwear
We can enhance our look by wearing good and comfortable shoes. Wearing comfortable shoes like ballet flats or low-heeled boots when wearing an abaya for university and work is important for maintaining mobility and comfort during long hours.
You are able to buy abayas from verified businesses on the Riwaya marketplace, to style your daily look for universities and work.
Shop abayas, hijabs, and many other accessories to style your abaya from our women's clothing collection.
You can sell Abayas online, showcase your premium Abayas to your target audience and expand your business with us. Start selling on Riwaya right away
You can style your black abaya by considering these points, accessorise with simple jewellery and a matching hijab, and layer with a coordinating or contrasting piece.
You can style your abaya by layering your abaya with thermal undergarments or leggings for warmth, a thick wool abaya for colder weather, a coat, scarf, gloves, or insulated boots for colder weather, and a coordinating hijab for style and warmth.
Wearing the Abaya is not universally mandatory in Islam, although modesty in dress is required. For women, Islamic modesty norms often call for covering the body in loose-fitting garments. Some Muslim women prefer to wear the Abaya to meet these modesty criteria, while others may choose to wear various forms of clothing to attain the same modesty purposes.
Yes, you can wear an abaya for interviews in practically any industry, in any season, and in any location.