What to wear under an abaya in the Saudi heat

Fabric: two layers, one climate

The abaya already blocks the sun, so the layer underneath can be as light as you like. Fine lawn and voile are the coolest choices; cambric is a little more opaque if the outfit will be seen without the abaya. Avoid polyester linings and satin-feel fabrics for daytime, since they trap heat between the layers. Our lawn guide explains which weights are sheer and which are not.

Colour matters less than you might expect, since the abaya covers most of it, but pale prints can show through a thin, layered abaya in bright sun. If your abaya is light and sheer, choose mid or dark tones underneath, or ask for a half lining in the kameez.

Sleeves and cuffs

Sleeves cause most of the discomfort. A wide or flared sleeve bunches inside the abaya sleeve and pushes up the forearm; a slim full sleeve ending at the wrist bone slides in smoothly. If your abaya has a narrow cuff, make the kameez sleeve a little shorter so it does not peek out. Keep bell sleeves and heavy lace cuffs for occasions when the abaya stays off.

Necklines and collars

Flat necklines sit best. A plain round neck or a soft band collar lies smoothly under an open-front abaya and does not catch on a closed one. Bows, high stiff collars and chunky embellishment at the throat tend to push the abaya out of shape. If you prefer a more decorative neckline for indoors, keep the decoration flat, such as fine embroidery rather than raised trims.

Lengths and trousers

A few centimetres decide whether the outfit stays hidden:

• Kameez length: knee to mid-calf usually stays well inside the abaya. Measure your abaya’s length and keep the kameez clearly shorter.
• Side slits: moderate slits help you walk without the kameez dragging against the abaya lining.
• Trousers: straight trousers or cigarette pants are discreet. Wide palazzos and full shalwars can flash colour at the hem as you walk.
• An inner dress: a simple maxi or slip dress in cotton is a cool alternative to a two-piece, especially in summer.

When the abaya comes off

Most days end indoors with family or friends, so the outfit underneath still needs to look like an outfit. A good print, a neat cut and one considered detail, such as piping or a pretty button placket, are enough. Our piping and trims guide has ideas that stay flat under an abaya.

Ordering an outfit for under your abaya

Mention in your notes that the outfit is for wearing under an abaya and give the abaya’s length; we plan the kameez length and sleeves around it. You can also order an abaya and the inner outfit together through our custom abaya service, or adjust one of our designs with customisation for Saudi Arabia. Start on the quote form; your quote includes delivery and import charges, and making takes 5 to 7 working days after approval and full payment.