5 Ways to Style an Open Abaya for Everyday Wear
The open abaya is the quiet hero of the modest wardrobe. Worn like a long, elegant coat, it goes over almost anything and instantly makes an outfit feel finished. Here are five easy ways to wear it every day.
1. To work: open abaya over a straight dress
Pair a plain open abaya (black, camel or navy) with a fitted straight dress underneath. Add a slim belt over the dress to define the waist and finish with low heels or loafers. The long line of the abaya keeps the look polished and professional.
Nooraï pick: Soft chain abaya — a timeless black open-front abaya with a subtle gold cord chain along the front opening.
2. Casual days: open abaya with wide-leg trousers
For errands or a relaxed day out, wear your abaya over wide-leg trousers and a simple top. Choose a light fabric such as crepe or linen blend, and white sneakers for comfort. A patterned or coloured abaya adds personality to a basic outfit.
Nooraï pick: Long kimono cardigan — an ankle-length open layer in Storm Blue or Golden Beige, made from a lightweight, airy fabric.
3. Out with friends: open abaya with a long skirt
A flowing long skirt under an open abaya creates beautiful layers of movement. Keep the colours in the same family (beige and cream, grey and black) for a soft, elegant result. Flat sandals and a small crossbody bag complete the look.
Nooraï pick: Blush Kimono with tassel — soft blush crepe with a decorative trim and tassels, lovely over cream or white.
4. Travelling: light open abaya as a throw-over
A lightweight open abaya is the perfect travel companion: it covers, it protects from the sun or the plane's air conditioning, and it never creases much. Wear it over a jumpsuit or a dress and roll it into your bag when you don't need it.
Nooraï pick: Kimono with tassel — lightweight crepe that resists wrinkling, in white or black.
5. Evening: embellished open abaya over a plain dress
For dinners or gatherings, let the abaya do the talking. Choose a model with beading, embroidery, a fine chain or metallic trim, and keep the dress underneath plain. Heels and a clutch, and you are ready.
Nooraï pick: Refined metallic gold hooded abaya — a front-open abaya with gold braided trim and a hooded back finished with a tassel.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Too many layers: if the abaya is detailed, keep everything else simple.
- Wrong length: the abaya should brush the ankle, not drag on the floor.
- Clashing volumes: an open abaya works best over pieces that are fitted or straight.
Discover Nooraï open abayas
Our open abayas are cut from premium fabrics with refined details, in classic black and soft seasonal colours. Explore the collection and find the one that fits your everyday style.