An Abaya is usually dressed to floor length, long-sleeved, simple, loose over-garment, robe-dress worn by some women in parts of the Muslim world.
Regionally the use of the word abaya may differ slightly in meaning.
In some regions/countries the abaya is only used to refer to an outerwear robe worn over clothing, with a front opening.
In other regions/countries it is also used to refer to a dress of a similar design which is a closed front design. The latter is also known in some areas as a Caftan/Kaftan, Thobe, Galabiya/Jalabiya, and a few other colloquial names.
The Classic Abaya is loosely fitted and covers the whole body except the head, feet, and hands.
Size is an important factor in knowing the length and getting the best-suited size of an abaya.
Important points to note about abaya length
- Just above the ankle
It is important to aim for a length that is just a couple of centimetres below your ankle. An abaya that sweeps the ground is never glamourous and you also don't want it to be too short.
Don't forget to add an extra inch or two if you want to wear your abaya with heels!
- An Arm’s Length
The length of the sleeve is just as important as that of the hem.
If too long or short, the sleeves can ruin a great look and get in the way of your daily routine.
Make sure the sleeves end right at your wrists (unless you’re aiming for the ¾ sleeve length).
- Main Squeeze
This is a crucial style mistake that ruins your overall look from the get-go.
Squeezing into a body-skimming abaya that’s two sizes too small is never a good idea.
The traditional abaya is loose fitting. If you want a more flattering design, then you can always add a belt for a cinched waistline.
- Endless layers of fabric
Swimming in fabric will create an overwhelming effect, especially if you have a petite frame.
Make sure your abaya fits well on your shoulders and that the loose fit doesn’t overpower you.
The abaya length according to standard measures is 7.8" / 20 cm shorter than a person height if measured from mid back bottom of neck level to heel.
Person Height Abaya Length
4.8 feet / 146 cm 49.6" / 126 cm
4.9 feet / 150 cm. 51.1" / 130 cm
5.0 feet / 153 cm 52.3" / 133 cm
5.1 feet / 156 cm 53.5" / 136 cm
5.2 feet / 158 cm 54.3" / 138 cm
5.3 feet / 161 cm 55.5" / 141 cm
5.4 feet / 164 cm 56.6" / 144 cm
5.5 feet / 167 cm 57.8" / 147 cm
These are approximate measurements and can be used as a guide to help you choose your size.
Get your tape measure out
Use a tape measure to get your measurements.
Abaya measurements are usually in inches. If you feel unsure, please don't hesitate to contact us
- Bust
Measure the fullest point around your chest, keeping the tape measure straight across your back.
- Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
- Length
Measure from the end of the back of your neck and straight down your back up until the length you would like your garment to reach. This will give you an indication of the size of your abaya.
The taller you are, the bigger the size you will need.
If you would like a custom-made abaya, please contact us and we will try our best to make one for you.
- Sleeve length
Measure from the top of your shoulder joint and straight down your arm up until the length you would like your sleeves to reach.
Relationship between the abaya size measurement and length
There is a correlation between the abaya size and the length.
Knowing the correct size of the abaya will make it very easy to know the required length of abaya that you need. Check out our size chart for your abaya dimensions (Chest, Sleeve and length) for each size label.
Our abayas always refer to the size and height of the model so that you can compare and help you choose the correct size.