The abaya symbolizes identity of the wearer as a cultural and religious moral Pakistani female, over time given the evolution of the abaya as a prevailing mode of dress, core traditional principles become augmented with the cutting edge style trends of the times. Setting fashion trends and traditions aside, more passionate questions are now driving the Pakistani female market for abayas. Here is a rundown of what to look for, why they are important and in the end set a Pakistani female apart: Abbaya basics features Abaya styles what makes them stand out in Pakistan?
- The Cultural Importance of Abayas in Pakistan
The abaya plays a very important role in Pakistani culture. It is worn as a sign of modesty. It is also worn as a sign of religious belief. Still, abaya comes in different styles as a mark of cultural progression and modernisation. The abaya, though with new styles and inscribed with contemporary names and logos, shows its traditional image. Historically, the abaya is worn by many men and women as a symbol of modesty. This modest dress remains a popular clothing choice for many women in Pakistan. Abaya is now made available in different styles for the satisfaction of those who want to adhere to the culture but also fashion.
- The Evolution of Abaya Designs
While the first designer abayas were merely airy covers that were black, the second-generation has been highly innovative, with designers experimenting with the fabric, cut and embellishments to come up with abayas that are not just modest, but also stylish. Although many women in Pakistan continue to perceive abayas as a full cover, there has been a silent upward shift in fashion to abayas that are more stylish, and personal.
- What Makes a High-Quality Abaya?
In the choice of an abaya, quality is of utmost importance. Its good craftsmanship makes the best abaya stand apart from the others. What to look for when shopping for an abaya in Pakistan :
3.1. Superior Fabric
A quintessential component of this garment is its fabric, as it plays a significant role in the ‘look’ of an abaya. High-end abayas are made of crepe, chiffon, or silk — textures that give an extremely luxurious feel, while keeping the silhouette in its most graceful drape. Breathable and lightweight, these fabrics are most suitable for the varying climates of Pakistan.
3.2. Exquisite Craftsmanship
An abaya that’s been well-designed and well-made is a beautiful thing. Look out for precise stitching along the seams, clean lines and a thoughtful execution of the overall design. The most stylish abayas will include hand-embroidery, lace or beading – or any combination of these details – which add elegance to the otherwise simple form.
3.3. Perfect Fit
A matching hijab should not intervene in the creation of your silhouette, and if you’ve got the right abaya this will happen naturally. It should flatter and follow the lines of your body – that is, flat against your back and shoulders, not too tight across the bum, and with the fabric hanging down straight from your shoulders to the ground. The modern abaya comes with hacks that make this easier. Many are ‘one-size-fits-all’, with a belt or an elastic drawstring that you can fasten to tighten the material. It should also feel relaxed and pleasant to wear.
3.4. Unique Design Elements
Modern abayas often combine such styles with some design flourish: bell sleeves, layered fabrics or contrasting trims that make the abaya an individualised piece while still adhering to a practice of modesty.
3.5. Affordability
Beside the quality, price is one of the vital factors. However, the combination of quality and affordability is more helpful in choosing the best abaya.
- Popular Abaya Styles in Pakistan
The abaya is not new to Pakistani culture. It derives from the Arab world and has a long history another name is burqa. The abaya market has a large variety of abaya styles depending upon the occasion and preference.Here are some common abaya styles:
4.1. Classic Black Abaya
The simple black abaya is still highly popular among Pakistani women. This classic design is always in style, suitable for a casual or special occasion. Lace trimming and quality embroidery are sometimes used to enhance the elegance of the black abaya.
4.2. Modern Embellished Abaya
Muslims who desire a more modern style can opt for the embellished abaya, which is covered in intricate embroidery, sequins and beads, and which is suitable for weddings or other special celebrations.
4.3. Colorful Abayas
Even though the black abaya is still very present, women are also buying abayas in different colours. Beige, grey and navy shades are popular, however, and some designs give the traditional abaya a modern twist.
4.4. Layered Abayas
For those looking for more depth in their abaya, shayla, or hijab, layered abayas are a popular choice. A layered abaya has multiple layers of fabric enclosing one another, emanating an ethereal and classy look ideal for formal settings.
4.5. Kaftan Style Abayas
A kaftan-style abaya is perfect for ‘day to day’ wearing, because it is loose and comfortable and usually has long sleeves so that the arms and head are kept warm. A kaftan also has a baggy silhouette. This makes it a practical choice due to the ease of movement it allows. Fashion, Islam, Hajj, sexism.
- How to Choose the Right Abaya for You
How you choose your abaya depends to a large extent on your own taste, figure and what you plan to wear it for. Below there are a few tips to guide you:
5.1. Consider Your Body Type
Depending on your body shape, a variety of abaya styles can flatter you. If you have a mini-me body, a fitted abaya with a belt can emphasise your waist. If you have a pear-shaped body, a completely loose-fitting abaya with a flowing silhouette will counterbalance your body shape.
5.2. Think About the Occasion
The occasion is vital in deciding the style of your abaya depending on if it’s for your everyday wear or an exceptional occasion. Regarding comfort and simplicity, I always prefer day-to-day abayas when I’m running errands and moving around, rather than an elaborate piece on ordinary days. However, selecting a more special-occasion abaya with more intricate details and lavish fabrics is always my preference.
5.3. Choose the Right Length
The length of your abaya is also very important as you want to wear it for the comfort of your body and for the beauty of your sight. Although these robes are colliated long ones of the traditional Arabian dress, some women nowadays prefer to wear it ankle length or midi length for the modern appearance.
5.4. Focus on Comfort
Comfort was a priority for me: make sure it’s roomy and breatheable, not to mention well-designed and flattering, if you plan on wearing it often, especially in the sauna-like temperatures you experience in Jeddah.
5.5. Check the Details
Think about the details when choosing an abaya. A garment with quality stitching and metal zips and properly constructed closures will keep you looking good for much longer.
- Caring for Your Abaya
It is important that you take good care of your well-crafted abaya so it will look good whenever you wear it. So, below are some tips you can use:
6.1. Washing and Drying
Make sure to check the label and follow the washing instructions on how to wash your abaya. For more delicate fabrics, hand washing in cold water is typically recommended, while machine washing on a gentle cycle can be appropriate for the more protective and hardy types of fabrics. Do not use bleach or harsh detergents that can damage your abaya.
6.2. Ironing and Steaming
If it wrinkles, steam or press it on a low heat using an iron (test the heat on a small, concealed part first to make sure the material can withstand it).
6.3. Storing Your Abaya
Store your abaya when not in use in a polished wooden chest or closet in a relatively cool, dry place and keep it away from direct sunlight. Hang it on a padded hanger to maintain shape and prevent wrinkles.
- The Future of Abaya Fashion in Pakistan
With the changing trends of the garment industry, coming seasons shall witness new abaya designs and styles being introduced in the market, as new ways of incorporating art and design shall evolve with time as well. New fabrics, cuts and embellishments shall be added to the Pakistani abaya as designers will try to develop and come up with state of the art conventional clothing pieces for modern women. More than likely the abaya will stay afloat in the realm of Pakistani fashion, just like it remains in the Middle Eastern mainstream, combining tradition with style.
- Conclusion
The abaya is an evergreen piece of attire that has been crafted into a distinct form and ripened to suit the needs of a contemporary Pakistani woman. Whether it's the traditional black abaya or a modern embellished one, there is an abaya for every preference that also resonates with your personality and culture. Considering factors such as fabric and garment fitting that suits your taste and the occasion, you can purchase the right abaya that can win you compliments and become a must-have element in your wardrobe. Discover varieties of the best abayas in Pakistan and embrace the aesthetic of modest fashion.
