Abaya and sheila

Types of abaya and Sheila

Abaya and Sheila are traditional garments commonly worn by Muslim women, especially in the Arabian Peninsula. The abaya is a long, flowing robe that is worn over regular clothes when going out in public. The Sheila is a headscarf that is worn to cover the hair, neck, and shoulders. Both pieces of clothing come in various styles. Here are their various types:

• Types of Abaya

  The abaya commonly comes in these types:

  • Open-Front Abaya

    This type of abaya is similar to a coat since it is open in front. It can be worn over other outfits, making it a suitable layering option. The open-front abaya is often worn with a Sheila and can be cinched at the waist using a belt.

  • Embroidered Abaya

    Unlike other plain abayas, this one has elaborate embroidery and beadwork. The decorations are usually done on the sleeves, neckline, and hem. This abaya is ideal for formal occasions.

  • Modern Print Abaya

    This abaya has fashionable prints such as floral, animal, and geometric patterns. These prints are usually done in bright colors, making the modern print abaya ideal for everyday wear.

  • Two-Tone Abaya

    This type of abaya comes in two different colors, which are usually distinguished by contrasting sleeves, necklines, and hemlines. The two-tone abaya is suitable for semi-formal events.

  • Jacket Abaya

    The jacket abaya resembles a jacket or blazer, making it more structured than other abayas. It is often worn with tailored pants and is ideal for work and business occasions.

  • Maxi Abaya

    This loose-fitting robe is ankle-length, ensuring the wearer is fully covered. The maxi abaya is ideal for daily wear.

• Types of Sheila

  Some of the common types of Sheila include:

  • Black Sheila

    This is a black head covering scarf that is draped over the head, neck, and shoulders. It is suitable for everyday wear.

  • Embroidered Sheila

    This type of Sheila has beautiful embroidery on the edges and sometimes on the entire scarf. The embroidery is usually done in contrasting colors. It is ideal for formal occasions.

  • Modern Print Sheila

    The modern print Sheila has contemporary prints such as floral, animal, and geometric patterns. The prints are done in bright colors.

  • Two-Tone Sheila

    The two-tone Sheila comes in two different colors. The colors are usually distinguished by different hemlines, necklines, and sleeves.

  • Long Sheila

    This Sheila is longer than most sheilas, covering the hair, neck, shoulders, and part of the body. The long Sheila is suitable for daily use.

Design of abaya and sheila

• Modern Abaya

  They are available in a variety of designs, colors, and materials. Some common modern abaya designs include:

  • Embroidered Abaya

    This abaya has intricate embroidery on the sleeves, neckline, and hemline. The embroidery may be done using threads of different colors or may be silver or golden embroidery. This embroidery may be done on the front or back of the abaya or on both sides of the abaya.

  • Printed Abaya

    This abaya has a printed design on the fabric. The print may include flowers, geometrical shapes, or any other design. The printed abayas may be available in vibrant colors or in shades of black and white. The print may be on the whole abaya or on some part of the abaya like the sleeves or the lower part of the abaya.

  • Frill Abaya

    This abaya has a frill or ruffle added to the sleeves, neckline, or lower part of the abaya. The frill may be small or big depending on the style and may add a classy and elegant look to the traditional abaya.

  • Designer Abaya

    These are made by famous designers and are unique in style. They may use expensive fabrics like silk and may have crystal or stone work.

  • Fashion Abaya

    This abaya is designed according to the latest fashion trends and may include bold and unconventional designs and styles.

  Modern abayas are also versatile and can be worn for different occasions. They can be worn daily, casually, formally, for work, during special events like weddings, or for travel.

  These abayas are typically made from a variety of fabrics. The most common fabrics used for abayas include:

  • Cotton

    These abayas are usually lightweight and comfortable. They are suitable for daily wear and are often used in warm climates.

  • Silk

    Silk abayas are luxurious and elegant. They drape well and have a smooth texture. They are often used for formal occasions and special events.

  • Chiffon

    This fabric is lightweight and sheer. It gives a flowy look to the abaya. It is often used for creating layered or open front abayas.

  • Georgette

    It is a lightweight and semi-sheer fabric. It is used to create an abaya that has a flowy and draped look.

  • Crepe

    It is a textured and crinkled fabric. It is used for making an abaya that has a unique drape and texture.

  These materials are often chosen for their modesty, comfort, and suitability to different climates and occasions.

• Embellished Sheila

  This is a sheila that has embellishments on it. Sheila with embellishments can have beautiful bead work or embroidery on it. The embellishment can be on the borders or on any part of the sheila making it look classy.

  There are various Sheila designs to choose from. Some common Sheila designs include:

  • Embellished Sheila

    This is a sheila that has embellishments on it. Sheila with embellishments can have beautiful bead work or embroidery on it. The embellishment can be on the borders or on any part of the sheila making it look classy.

  • Printed Sheila

    This sheila has different printed designs on it. The printed designs may be flowers, geometrical shapes, or any other design. The printed sheilas may be available in vibrant colors or in shades of black and white.

  • Textured Sheila

    This sheila has a textured fabric. The textured fabric may be a crinkled fabric or a fabric with a unique weave.

  • Frill Sheila

    This sheila has a frill or ruffle added to the hemline or the edges of the sheila. The frill may add an elegant look to the sheila.

  • Modern Sheila

    These are sheilas designed with contemporary styles and may include bold and unconventional designs.

  Sheila are typically made from a variety of fabrics. The most common fabrics used for sheilas include:

  • Cotton

    These sheilas are breathable and comfortable. They are suitable for daily wear and in warm climates.

  • Silk

    These sheilas are luxurious and elegant, often used for formal occasions and special events.

  • Chiffon

    These sheilas are lightweight and sheer, often used for creating layered or open-front styles.

  • Georgette

    This fabric is lightweight and semi-sheer and is used to create a flowy and draped look.

  • Lyocell

    This is an environmentally friendly fiber made from wood pulp. It is a soft and breathable fabric that is suitable for daily wear.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of abaya and sheila

The following tips can help one wear and match an abaya and sheila to achieve a modest and stylish appearance.

• Classic and Elegant Look

  Pair a black abaya with a sheila of the same colour for a classic and elegant look. The timeless combination is suitable for formal occasions or events such as weddings and evening gatherings. One can add a pop of color using accessories such as a handbag or shoes.

• Monochrome Chic

  For a monochrome chic look, one can match an abaya with a sheila of the same colour but in different shades. For example, a light grey abaya with a dark grey sheila creates a sophisticated and modern look. Complete the outfit with matching accessories and footwear for a cohesive appearance.

• Contrasting Colors

  Abayas can be matched with sheilas of contrasting colours to create a bold and vibrant look. For instance, a navy blue abaya paired with a bright red sheila adds a touch of excitement to the outfit. This combination is ideal for festive occasions or casual outings. One can balance the contrasting colours with neutral accessories.

• Patterned Sheilas

  If one wants to add some interest to the headwear, they can choose a patterned sheila. Floral, geometric or abstract patterns can complement a solid-colour abaya. For example, a solid-colour light pink abaya can be paired with a sheila with a floral or geometrical pattern in darker shades of pink. This combination adds a playful and youthful look to the overall appearance. One should ensure that the pattern on the sheila is not too loud to overpower other elements of the outfit.

• Matching Details

  To create a coordinated look, one can match the sheila with the details of the abaya. This can be done by selecting a sheila that has similar colour, embroidery or embellishment as the abaya. For instance, if the abaya has gold embroidery, one can choose a sheila with gold accents to complement it. This approach creates a harmonious and unified look.

Q&A

Q1: What materials are Sheila and abaya made of?

A1: Sheilas are usually made of cotton or synthetic material. Abayas are made from various materials. They range from light fabrics like chiffon to heavy ones like silk.

Q2: Can I layer an Abaya over my clothes?

A2: Yes, Abayas are designed to be worn over other clothes. They offer a modest and versatile option.

Q3: Are there Abaya and Sheila combinations for special occasions?

A3: Yes, there are many Abaya and Sheila combinations for weddings or festivals. They feature intricate designs and luxurious fabrics.

Q4: Are Abayas and Sheilas available in different sizes?

A4: Yes, Abayas and Sheilas come in various sizes to suit different body types and preferences.

Q5: Can Sheilas be worn without an Abaya?

A5: Yes, Sheilas can be worn on their own or with other garments. They are a versatile headscarf.