5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Your First Abaya Online

 

Shopping for your first abaya online can feel overwhelming — especially when you can’t see or feel the fabric in person. From sizing confusion to poor stitching, a small misstep can lead to disappointment.

Here’s a guide to help you avoid common mistakes and make a confident, well-informed choice — whether you're buying for everyday wear or a special occasion.

1. Ignoring the Fabric Type

Not all abayas are created equal — and fabric makes a major difference in both comfort and appearance. Lightweight poly blends may seem affordable, but they often cling, wrinkle, or lose their shape quickly.

For a breathable, long-lasting abaya that drapes well, look for high-quality fabrics like Saudi Nida, crepe, or silk blends.

✅ Tip: Premium Nida fabric is soft, matte, and ideal for all-day wear — especially in warmer climates.

2. Guessing Your Size Without a Guide

Abayas are usually designed to be loose-fitting — but that doesn’t mean one size fits all. Many online shoppers either size up too much or underestimate sleeve and length measurements.

Before buying:

• Check the size chart carefully
• Compare it to a well-fitting abaya you already own
• Don’t forget to check sleeve length and shoulder width

📏 If the site doesn’t offer a detailed size guide, it’s worth messaging their team for clarity.

3. Overlooking Embroidery & Stitching Quality

Embroidery is often what sets an abaya apart — but it can also be where quality cuts corners. Poorly stitched threadwork tends to fray, snag, or look uneven after just a few wears.

Look for:

• Close-up photos of the embroidery
• Clean seams and even detailing
• Descriptions that mention thread quality or embroidery placement

✨ A well-embroidered abaya adds elegance without overwhelming the overall look.

4. Not Knowing the Difference Between Open and Closed Abayas

This one surprises a lot of first-time buyers. A closed abaya usually slips on like a dress, sometimes with a side or front zipper. An open abaya works more like a robe, worn over clothing — often paired with a belt or left flowing.

Think about:

• How you plan to wear it (daily, prayer, formal)
• Whether layering is important to you
• The climate or season you’ll be wearing it in

👗 Closed abayas offer a neater finish, while open abayas are often more versatile for styling.

5. Skipping the Reviews & Return Policy

Reviews offer insight you can’t get from product photos. They’ll often tell you about real-world fit, fabric feel, and overall satisfaction. And if anything does go wrong, a clear return or exchange policy can make all the difference.

Before you buy:

• Scan customer reviews for sizing or quality notes
• Check the return policy (some modestwear brands don’t allow returns on religious items)

Final Thoughts

Buying your first abaya online doesn’t have to be difficult — as long as you take a little extra time to check fabric, sizing, and craftsmanship. A well-chosen abaya should feel effortless to wear and last through many occasions.

At AlHejab, we’ve spent over 25 years designing and manufacturing abayas for Saudi women — a market known for its high standards in both modesty and luxury. That experience shapes every detail in our pieces, from premium Nida fabric to carefully placed embroidery and practical fits that work for real women.