Office abayas: a made-to-measure abaya for work

Clean cuts that look deliberate

Structured, simple shapes read as professional: a straight cut with a slight A-line flare, a coat-style front, or a closed abaya with a neat placket. A defined shoulder helps an abaya look sharp rather than slouchy, so tell us if you prefer a crisp shoulder line. Our body and garment measurement guide explains why we ask for body measurements and add ease ourselves.

• Length: ankle length or just above clears stairs and escalators while still looking long.
• Front: a closed front or one fastened with concealed snaps keeps a clean line when you stand to present.
• Collar: a small band or shirt-style collar suits a formal setting; a plain round neck sits well under a scarf.

Sleeves, cuffs and pockets

Keyboard work, lab work and clinical work all reward a narrower sleeve. A straight sleeve finished with a cuff, or a sleeve that tapers gently towards the wrist, stays clean and does not drag across a desk. If you wash your hands often during the day, a cuff with a press stud or button lets you push the sleeve up quickly.

Pockets are the single most requested practical detail for a work abaya. Side-seam pockets hold a phone, a pass or keys without spoiling the line, and they are easy to ask for on your request. Our article on adding pockets explains the options for kurtas, and the same thinking applies to an abaya.

Colours and fabrics that last a working week

For daily wear, choose colours that pair with many scarves: navy, charcoal, black, olive, camel, grey or a deep burgundy. Two abayas in different neutral shades can cover a whole week with a change of scarf and inner layer.

Fabric matters even more than colour. In general, a matte, mid-weight fabric that resists creasing and does not cling suits a long day at a desk, and a fabric that washes well saves dry-cleaning trips. Light, breathable fabrics are better for warm offices or long commutes in heat. We confirm the exact fabric in the written quote once we know how and where you will wear the abaya.

Keeping it understated

Most workplaces suit very little embellishment. Tonal piping, a contrast cuff in a slightly different shade, or delicate embroidery at the neckline only is enough. If you would like a little detail, choose the delicate level of our fancy work, which keeps work to the neckline or sleeves. Save statement work for the abaya you wear on weekends and at gatherings.

Ordering work abayas

Many women order two or three work abayas at once, in different colours from one set of measurements. We make each one in Pakistan, 5 to 7 working days from your approval and full payment, then ship it to your address. The quote includes delivery and any import duties and fees, so nothing is due when it arrives.

If you work in Doha, Riyadh or Dubai, the Qatar Fabric + Stitching page and the other Gulf country pages explain ordering from there; our work and campus page has more ideas. When you are ready, describe your working day on the quote form.