An abaya is a loose-fitting, full-length garment worn by some women in parts of the Muslim world, including North Africa, the Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and most of the Middle East. It is a simple, robe-like dress that covers the whole body except the head, feet, and hands. The abaya is typically black and can be worn with a niqāb, a face veil covering all but the eyes, and long black gloves to cover the hands. It is often worn on special occasions such as mosque visits and Islamic holiday celebrations.
Here are some key features of an abaya:
- Long-sleeved and floor-length
- Worn over street garments
- Designed to be free and flowing, hiding the bodys curves
- May slip over the chest but usually opens at the front, closing with snaps, a zipper, or overlapping layers
- The sleeves are made of the same fabric and not stitched on individually
The abaya can be worn with other clothing items, such as a scarf covering the hair. While traditional abayat are black, modern abayas come in a variety of designs. The garment is often favored by women in countries with large Muslim populations due to its suitability for the region's high temperatures, dusty weather, and religious beliefs.
