Abayas · 4 October 2026 · 4 min read
Abaya collars and necklines: what to choose
Abaya necklines and collars explained: round, V, keyhole and boat necks, band, shirt and shawl collars, openings for closed abayas and how each sits with a hijab.
InspirationNecklines and the hijab
On most abayas the neckline sits under a hijab, so it is chosen for comfort and neatness as much as for looks. A neckline that sits close to the base of the neck keeps the hijab smooth and avoids gaps. A bulky collar can push the hijab out of place, while a neckline that is too wide can show at the sides. If you wear your hijab tucked in or draped long over the shoulders, mention it; it changes what works.
The neckline and collar are among the details you choose for a custom abaya, and they are written into your quote before anything is cut.
Neckline shapes
- Round: the most common abaya neckline, close to the base of the neck. Neat under any hijab. See the round neck page.
- High round: sits a little higher for more coverage and a very clean line.
- V-neck: a shallow V is flattering and lengthens the neck; a deeper V is usually worn over an inner layer.
- Boat neck: wide and shallow, sitting along the collarbones. Better for abayas worn without a long hijab drape.
- Keyhole: a round neck with a small slit at the front or back, closed with a button and loop.
- Square: structured and less common on abayas, but striking on a coat style.
Collars
A collar adds structure and changes the character of an abaya completely. The band collar, a short stand-up strip around the neck, is a favourite: it frames the face, sits neatly under a hijab and suits both closed and coat styles; our band collar page shows it. A shirt collar looks crisp and modern on a buttoned abaya. A shawl collar rolls in one smooth curve from the neck down the front, soft and elegant on an open abaya. A notched lapel gives a tailored, coat-like look; see the coat-style abaya guide.
Some abayas also have a hood, attached at the neckline, which can be decorative or practical in wind and rain. Our article on collar styles for kurtas covers more shapes that translate well to longer garments.
Openings for a closed abaya
A closed abaya goes on over the head, so the neckline needs an opening that is large enough to pass over your head and hijab without strain. The usual choices are a short front placket with buttons, a keyhole slit at the front or back, a short zip at the centre back, or press studs along one shoulder. A front placket is easiest to manage yourself; a back zip keeps the front completely plain.
Finishing the neckline
How the edge is finished matters on an abaya, because it is right under your chin. A facing, a shaped piece stitched inside, gives a smooth, clean edge. Binding wraps the raw edge in a narrow strip and can be a contrast colour. Piping outlines the neckline crisply. The neckline is also where delicate embellishment shows most clearly, and our fancy work levels on the quote form start with neckline and sleeves. What can be done on your fabric is confirmed in the quote; our neckline with lace page shows one approach.
Choosing and ordering
If you are unsure, a round neck or a band collar is hard to get wrong on an abaya. Choose a collar if you want structure, and a soft V or shawl collar if you want the abaya to feel lighter. Send a photo of the neckline you like, ideally a close-up. You can start from a design of your own on the design quote form; the custom design page for the UK explains how that works.
Customers in Birmingham can read the Birmingham page for how ordering works from there. Every quote includes delivery and any import charges, and production takes 5 to 7 working days from approval and full payment.
Common questions
Which abaya neckline is best with a hijab?
A round neck or a band collar sits closest to the base of the neck, so the hijab stays smooth with no gaps at the sides.
How do you put on a closed abaya with a collar?
It needs an opening at the neck, such as a front button placket, a keyhole slit, a back zip or press studs on the shoulder, large enough to pass over your head and hijab.
Can an abaya have a hood?
Yes, a hood can be attached at the neckline. Mention it in your quote along with the collar or neckline you would like.
