What to Wear Under Your Abaya – Layering Tips for Modest Fashion

What to Wear Under Your Abaya – Layering Tips for Modest Fashion

While abayas are designed to flow beautifully and preserve modesty, what you wear underneath can make all the difference in comfort, coverage, and overall style especially across different seasons and settings.

Here’s your complete guide on what to wear under your abaya, with modest layering ideas for casual wear, prayer, events, and everything in between.

 

👗 1. The Classic Underdress

A sleek underdress (inner slip dress) is one of the most common and comfortable pieces to wear under an open abaya. It keeps things modest, especially if your abaya fabric is lightweight or semi sheer.

Best For:

  • Open abayas

  • Events and formal looks

  • Summer layering (go for breathable cotton or satin)

👖 2. Top and Trousers Combo

A long tunic or modest blouse paired with wide leg trousers, culottes, or tailored pants creates a clean and polished look. Perfect for everyday wear or work friendly modest fashion.

Best For:

  • Open abayas

  • Casual and structured looks

  • All seasons

Style Tip:
Choose neutral base layers and let your abaya be the statement piece.

🧕 3. Full Coverage Jilbab or Closed Abaya as Base Layer

Some women prefer wearing a lightweight, simple abaya or jilbab underneath their main abaya especially during prayer times, travel, or Hajj/Umrah.

Best For:

  • Prayer

  • Full modest coverage

  • Travel layering

🌤️ 4. Seasonal Layering Tips

☀️ In Hot Weather:

  • Choose light, breathable materials like cotton or bamboo

  • Go for short-sleeve slips or sleeveless inner dresses

  • Avoid thick trousers, try jersey maxi skirts or flowy pants

❄️ In Cold Weather:

  • Layer with long sleeve thermals, turtlenecks, or body suits

  • Add a wool underdress or light leggings under your abaya

  • Pair with a structured coat or open abaya as an outer layer

 

🛑 What to Avoid

  • Bulky fabrics that ruin the flow of your abaya

  • Bright or patterned base layers under sheer fabrics (unless you want them to show)

  • Slippery materials that make open abayas shift or slide

 

🧕 Our Favourite Base Layer Tip

Invest in neutral toned inner dresses (black, beige, white). They go with everything, last through every season, and make styling effortless.

 

💬 Final Thoughts

What’s underneath matters, not just for modesty, but for comfort and confidence. With the right base, your abaya flows better, feels better, and fits your lifestyle beautifully.

Whether you're styling for the heat, prayer, or an elegant event, modest layering keeps you covered in every way.

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