Abaya with a matching inner dress: measuring both

Measuring for the inner dress

The inner dress is closer to the body than the abaya, so it needs your measurements taken over light clothing only. Bust, waist, hips, shoulder, sleeve length and length are the essentials, exactly as for any dress; our size guide shows each one. Send them as body measurements, and let us work out the finished sizes for both layers.

Then measure for the abaya over the kind of inner dress you will wear. If the dress does not exist yet, measure over a similar dress you own. Our guide on how to measure for an abaya covers the abaya side.

Lengths that work together

Decide how the two hems should relate, and give each a number.

• Inner dress a little shorter: the usual choice under a closed abaya, so the inner hem never shows.
• Same length: works with an open abaya, where the dress forms part of the look at the front.
• Inner dress longer: occasionally chosen as a deliberate layer at the hem. Say so clearly, because it looks like a mistake if it is not planned.
• Measure both from the same point, the highest point of the shoulder next to the neck, in the same shoes. See abaya length with shoes.

Sleeves and necklines

Under a long-sleeved abaya, the inner sleeves should be slightly shorter or close to the arm so they do not bunch, unless you want a contrast cuff to show. Under an abaya with wide sleeves, a slim, full-length inner sleeve keeps the arm covered when the outer sleeve falls back. Our page on full sleeves shows the options.

Check the necklines too. A high inner neckline under a lower abaya neckline gives coverage; a matching neckline gives a cleaner line. If the abaya is open, the inner dress neckline is on display, so choose it as carefully as you would on a standalone dress, perhaps from our neckline guide.

Fabric and colour across both pieces

A matching set can be in one fabric, or in two that suit each other: for example a lighter, breathable inner dress under a heavier abaya. With Fabric + Stitching, we share fabric photos and descriptions with your quote. With Stitching Only, check that you have enough for both pieces before you send anything; our article on posting your fabric for stitching explains the steps. Colours can look slightly different between photos and real life, so compare samples in daylight where you can.

Ordering the set

On the quote form, choose abaya, set the quantity and describe the inner dress in your notes, with a photo or sketch of each piece. Ordering from the Gulf? The Qatar and Saudi Arabia pages explain quote currencies and delivery. Both pieces are made together in Pakistan in 5 to 7 working days after approval and full payment, then shipped to you.