Abayas have been a cornerstone of modest fashion for centuries. They offer a graceful silhouette and a dignified presence for women. Also, the flowing shape and versatility make them perfect for daily wear as well as special occasions or professional settings. But there’s an important detail that can also impact your outfit and how it looks when you wear it. And, it is what you wear underneath.

The inner layers you choose matter just as much as the abaya itself. They affect comfort and coverage. They also have an impact on the overall look of your outfit. Your under-abaya fashion choices determine how confident and comfortable you feel. And, it doesn’t have to be the same thing, as it may change based on occasion like if you’re dressing for a casual day out or a religious event.

This guide takes you through everything you can wear under an abaya to help you stay elegant with modesty and practical throughout the day.

Inner Layer Importance For Abaya

An abaya may look stunning on its own, but without the right base layers, it might feel incomplete.  When chosen thoughtfully, your innerwear compliments the abaya rather than distracting from it.

The right inner garments offer:

• Comfort: They are mostly lightweight. Their breathable fabrics keep you cool and prevent irritation.

• Coverage: All inner layers designed to wear under an abaya make sure of modesty even under sheer or open abayas.

• Structure: When you do proper layering, it may help the abaya drape neatly and prevent it from clinging.

• Confidence: When you know you’re fully covered, you move freely without adjusting your outfit constantly.

#1 Slip Dresses

One of the most popular choices to wear under an abaya is the slip dress.

Why It Works

Slip dresses create a smooth base layer that allows the abaya to fall effortlessly. Because they are typically form-fitting but not tight, they prevent bunching and help the abaya maintain its elegant flow.

Types of Slip Dresses

• Short Slip: They are ideal for closed abayas and warmer weather.

• Midi Slip: Good for semi-sheer abayas, offering more coverage.

• Full-Length Slip: Best for open abayas or when you want complete coverage.

Fabric Choices

• Cotton slips are breathable for summer.

• Satin adds a touch of luxury for evening events

• Jersey slips provide stretch and comfort for everyday wear.

#2 Leggings / Trousers / Wide-Leg Pants

Separates are another excellent choice, especially if you prefer more flexibility.

Leggings

Cotton or jersey leggings are perfect for casual days. They allow free movement. They are always a preference and a favorite for students and busy moms. However, it’s better to always choose thicker fabrics to avoid transparency.

Trousers

Tailored trousers are ideal for professional settings. You can easily pair straight-cut or tapered trousers beautifully with open abayas for a smart and polished look.

Wide-Leg Pants

If you have a flowy outfit, wide-leg pants or culottes are a great pick. They create a sophisticated silhouette and work especially well with kimono-style or open-front abayas.

You can stick to neutral colors like black, beige, or cream, as they coordinate with most women's abayas and make accessorizing easier.

#3 Tops / Tunics / Other Layering Options

Your choice of top can transform the entire look of your abaya.

Fitted Tops

Fitted long-sleeve tops are excellent for wearing under closed abayas. They create a smooth outline and work well for workwear or school.

Tunics

Long tunics offer extra coverage and are a good choice for women who prefer loose layers. A-line or straight-cut tunics work best to avoid bulkiness.

Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks are perfect for cooler months and they also keep you warm while maintaining a neat look. You can pair them with trousers or leggings for a comfortable winter outfit.

#4 Inner Dresses for Open Abayas

Open abayas are increasingly popular, and wearing the right inner dress is essential. You can choose a coordinating inner dress that matches the abaya or go for a contrasting color to create visual interest.

A well-chosen inner dress turns the abaya into a complete outfit rather than just a cover-up.

#5 Sportswear With Abaya

Modest fashion is not just for special occasions, it is adaptable to every part of your life, including exercise. You can pair your activewear with a lightweight abaya for full coverage when going to and from your activities.

• Sports Hijabs: Lightweight and moisture-wicking for intense workouts.

• Performance Tops: Long-sleeved tops made from breathable fabrics prevent overheating.

• Joggers or Loose Track Pants: Comfortable for running errands or gym sessions.

Colours Options and Choices

When styling your under-abaya look, pay attention to color coordination.

• Monochrome Looks: Try to match your inner dress to the abaya for a sophisticated tone-on-tone effect.

• Contrast Styling: You can use a pop of color underneath a neutral abaya for a bold, playful look.

• Neutrals for Versatility: Black, white, beige, and grey work with nearly any abaya and are easy to style.

Wear According To The Climate

Summer

• Choose lightweight slip dresses and airy trousers.

• Stick to light colors that reflect heat and keep you cool.

Winter

• Layer turtlenecks, cardigans, and thermal leggings under your abaya.

• Go for heavier fabrics like jersey or crepe for warmth.

Transitional Weather

• Pair mid-weight inner dresses with light cardigans.

• Keep a pashmina or shawl handy for layering when temperatures drop.

What to Wear Under Abaya for Umrah

Umrah requires clothing that is both modest and practical. Comfort is key since you will be wearing your outfit for extended periods.

• Lightweight Cotton Layers: Stay cool during long hours of walking.

• Comfortable Fit: Avoid tight or restrictive clothing.

• Neutral Shades: White and beige are common choices for a clean, simple look.

Special Occasions

When attending a wedding, engagement, or Eid gathering, your under-abaya fashion can lean more towards luxury.

• Silk or Satin Slip Dresses: It offer an elegant, evening-ready look.

• Embellished Inner Dresses: Beaded or embroidered options pair beautifully with plain abayas.

• Palazzo Pants: A coordinated set works well under open abayas.

Get Perfect Look

• Check for Transparency: Stand in natural light to make sure layers are opaque.

• Balance the Silhouette: Pair loose abayas with more structured underlayers to avoid looking bulky.

• Use Breathable Undershirts: Prevent sweat marks and keep the abaya fresh for longer wear.

Quality Abayas

Once you have the perfect base layers, it is equally important to invest in quality abayas that complement them. 

At YallaWorld, you can find a range of abayas in premium fabrics and modern designs. We have all kinds of hand-tailored abayas that will work with your chosen innerwear.

Conclusion

It may seem like a small detail when you’re choosing what to wear under an abaya, but it can completely change the way you look and feel. However, there are endless combinations to explore. You have slip dresses and trousers as well as sportswear and tunics.

You need to focus on fabrics that keep you comfortable and choose pieces that suit the occasion. When done right, your under-abaya fashion will look effortless and elegant. With the right combination, your abaya will shine while keeping you modest and confident all day.