Custom abaya in Bahrain: ordering one made to measure

Styles to describe in your brief

We do not have a fixed abaya catalogue, so the design starts with your photo, sketch or description. These are common styles worth knowing by name; whichever you want, ask for it in your quote and we confirm what is possible on your fabric:

• Closed abaya: pulled on over the head or fastened at the neck, with a clean front.
• Open-front abaya: worn like a long coat over an outfit, sometimes with a tie or hidden snaps.
• Butterfly or kaftan-style abaya: wide, flowing sleeves joined to the body, which drape softly and allow lots of movement.
• Coat-style abaya: more structured, with a collar or lapels and a defined shoulder.
• Bisht-inspired abaya: a wide open shape with a trimmed edge, inspired by the traditional cloak.

Fabric: weight, drape and the island humidity

Abaya fabrics are often crepe-like or matte, chosen because they hang well and do not show every crease. In Bahrain’s humid summer, the weight matters more than anything: a light, opaque fabric that lets air through will be far more comfortable than a heavy, shiny one. A sheer outer layer, such as chiffon, usually needs an inner dress or lining. If you want us to source fabric, describe the drape, opacity and colour you want; we agree the fabric with you in the quote before cutting.

If you already have abaya fabric, perhaps bought in a market in Manama or Muharraq, Stitching Only lets you send it to us after we have confirmed it is suitable and that there is enough.

How to measure for an abaya

Length is the measurement that matters most. Take these, keep to one unit, and add notes:

• Full length: from the top of the shoulder at the neck to the floor, wearing the shoes you will usually wear with it.
• Shoulder width, across the back from one shoulder point to the other.
• Bust, waist and hip: even for a loose abaya, these tell us how much room the body needs.
• Sleeve length to where you want the cuff to fall, and the wrist if you want a narrow cuff.
• Upper arm: important for coat-style abayas with a set-in sleeve.

Details worth asking about

Small details make an abaya easier to live with. You might ask about pockets in the side seams, a front that closes for prayer, sleeves that are easy to push up for wudu, or cuffs that sit close so they do not catch on things. If you want embroidery or lace on the cuffs or edges, send a photo of the look and ask; fancy work for Bahrain explains how embellishment is agreed. If you would like a matching inner dress or scarf, ask for it in the same quote.

Our modest dressing guide has more on how sleeves, necklines and lengths work together.

Quote, payment and delivery

Your written quote lists the agreed cut, length, sleeves, fabric, measurements and any details, with the total in US dollars, euros or pounds, as you choose. It includes delivery to your address in Bahrain and any import duties, taxes and courier fees. You pay in full by bank transfer, Wise or a card payment link, and we make the abaya in 5 to 7 working days, after which courier time is added.

To start, upload your inspiration on the Bahrain design quote form, or read about custom design in Bahrain first. The size guide shows where each body measurement is taken.