Have you ever come across a traditional Islamic Clothing that has not only gained popularity across the world but has also been adapted to different cultures? This is an outfit that reflects modesty while also exuding elegance in itself, and that is none other than our alluring abayas. It is an epitome of beauty with great spiritual significance attached to it, and leaves us breathless with its mesmerizing styles and cultural history.
A Glimpse into the World of Abayas: Origin and Expansion
Abayas originated in the regions of the Middle East, and are a sacred piece of clothing adorned by women of the Muslim faith. These are outer garments that hold deep spiritual meaning for the wearer, as they are a symbol of their heritage and religious sentiments. It is an embodiment of their cultural identities and physical expression of their spiritual values. An Abaya was traditionally made out of a loose and flowing fabric with the idea that it will provide both comfort and coverage against the hot desert weather.
Initially, Muslim Clothing was made with darker-coloured fabrics that were durable and easy to use on an everyday basis. Today, the Abayas, Hijab, Khimar and Niqab are no longer limited to simplicity; they are travelling way ahead of the Middle Eastern region and are now reaching all over the globe. With modernization, abayas have become a statement of fashion that is not limited to religious values alone. Abayas today are available in a wide range of styles, patterns, cuts, and designs made out of luxurious fabrics that are adored by women worldwide. In this blog, we will take you through various styles of Islamic Clothing that the world holds today. These styles and designs are influenced by different regions in the world, reflecting the various cultures across the globe.
Cultural Crossroads: The Fusion that led to Fashion Union
Cultures all around the world unite when it comes to fashion, and so happened for Abayas too. Abayas went out of the Middle Eastern region and gained popularity all over the world. Here are some styles of abayas, Hijab, Khimar, and Niqab that are famous in various cultures that will tell you why they are timeless outfits.
Influence of the Middle East: Even though Muslim Clothing and abayas originated here, different countries from this region took it as their responsibility to come up with different styles of the same outfit. Here are some of the styles that took birth in the Middle East:
Open Abaya: This is the most popular and classic style of abaya that is found in the Gulf countries of the Middle Eastern regions. An open abaya is a loose and flowing outer garment that is worn over other clothes and tightened with a button or a hook at the front. These are usually made out of loose fabrics like silk, georgette, or chiffon, making them ideal for casual and semi-formal occasions.
Closed Abaya: As the name suggests, this abaya covers your body completely with the help of a zipper or buttons at the front. This is a modest version of the traditional abayas that can be worn on an everyday basis, for casual outings, as well as for religious ceremonies.
Belted Abayas: This outfit comes with a modern touch of a belt added at the waist, clenching your waistline and giving you a flattering appearance. This is a more fashionable alternative that is preferred by women in Gulf countries for dressing up at formal occasions, weddings, and receptions. These are made out of luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, and net to exude a bold and sophisticated appearance.
Butterfly Abayas: This is a dramatic variation of the classic abaya, designed for those who prefer a sassy yet simple outfit. It features a flowing silhouette with wide sleeves that look like the wings of a butterfly. These abayas offer a more lively, playful, and feminine appearance, making them ideal for grand occasions like weddings and festivities.
Influence of the African regions: Abayas also travelled up to the African regions, and resulted in two very popular styles; they are:
Moroccan Abaya: Commonly called the Hijab, Kaftan, this abaya style originated in Morocco and is characterized by the traditional craftsmanship of its region. A Kaftan is a loose and flowing garment that features vivid colours and intricate embroidery that is influenced by Moroccan culture. This is famous all around the world and is ideal for religious ceremonies and traditional weddings
Turkish Influence: Turkey adapted the traditional abayas and blended it with Western styles. Among these, the most common is the Kimono-style Abayas. These abayas feature the kimono style from Japan, as it has wide and flowing sleeves, just like the Japanese kimono. They are usually made from luxurious fabrics like satin and silk, making them ideal for formal occasions.
Influence of the Western Countries: Muslim Clothing like Hijab, Khimar and Niqab also reached the West, being adopted by fast fashion culture. These abayas stand out among the others as they have unique cuts and more fitted outlooks that are ideal for a modern woman. They adapted the classic abaya to contemporary fashion and designed an outfit full of elegance that can be worn not just for religious ceremonies, but at weddings, receptions, and parties.
Influence of Southeast Asia: South Asian countries like Pakistan and India added more vibrancy to the Muslim Clothing. Unique styles, embroideries, embellishments, textiles, and colors were used to make these abayas. These, Abayas, Hijab and Niqab were fused with other traditional outfits like a floor-length anarkali dress, an abaya saree, and other elegant dresses. These are adored and worn by women of all faiths for occasions like weddings and festivals.
Abayas are a piece of history that has now become a piece of your heart. Cultural exchanges gave us this amazing outfit that suits both the fashion world as well as Islamic principles. If you are looking for a change in your everyday Islamic Clothing, then just go for these styles of abayas that will elevate your look to the next level. Add them now to your wardrobe and experience the art of cultures and tradition.
