What are Abayas? A dive into its history and origins!

Abayas are the epitome of humility and modesty. These fluttery robe-like gowns often bedazzled with jewels, are the best thing to wear for women who wish to incorporate modesty while maintaining an elegance in their outlook. It is not just a piece of cloth; it is also a symbol of pride. However, where did these magnificent garments come from? What are their origins? Let us dive into its history and find out!

What are abayas?

Abayas are robe like garments and come in many shapes, colors and sizes. They are made from several different fabrics, usually from fabrics like cotton, georgette and silk. They are purposefully made loose and fluttery for women who wish to be dress modestly and cover themselves from shoulders to toes. They are often paired with a scarf that women use to cover their hair\head, completing the sole purpose of wearing an Abaya, which is to cover oneself from head to toe.

Origins of Abaya

The origins of Abaya reportedly date back to over 4000 years ago. It was supposedly first seen being worn by Mesopotamian people. It was further documented that Arabian Peninsula women also seemingly wore garments similar to Abayas even before Islam was introduced, implying that this garment was a casual wear for some without any specific purpose. During those times, casually wearing loose garments was a norm for women within the urban areas of the civilization.

Other supposed origin

Other than the fact these garments came from the said places, it has been also noted that traders from Iran and Iraq introduced these in Saudi Arabia less than a century ago.

The reason behind it was that Abayas were loose fitted garments and so they were an easy thing to wear in the scorching heat in the deserts of Saudi Arabia.

Abayas before Islam

As said above, Abayas before were a casually worn garment. It was just a loose robe like outfit that served no actual purpose. They probably looked extremely simple with no vibrant colors or designs. The thought of this garment becoming symbolic for probably anything was unimaginable.

Abayas after Islam

After Islam was introduced as, a religion and the Muslim women were ordered to cover themselves the idea of Abayas became instantly popularized as Muslims thought that this garment was the perfect solution for modesty. After that, this garment began to widespread in Muslim women and eventually got incorporated in the culture.

Early 20th century

After abayas began to popularize in the early 20th, new fashion trends in them were introduced. The garments that were once made with little to no proper detail, only came in black colors and worn without any purpose had started to be introduced in new beautiful designs.                                                                                                          People from the gulf started to experiment on new designs with several colors, different fabrics, jewels, cuts and styles. The old style fashion was ditched and new abayas with fluttery look, fitted; frock style and open front were introduced, embellished with jewels, embroidery, and laces.                                                                                                                                                                           The rise in these Abaya fashion trends began to up rise in cities like Dubai, Doha and Riyadh then slowly spread out throughout Saudi Arabia.

Abayas in the current era

Modern style Abayas nowadays have been incorporated with the latest fashion trends. Nowadays there are many new modern style designs being introduced. Women wear these in several fashionable ways while maintaining modesty as it also aligns with the principles of Islam and that is for women to cover themselves completely. Abayas are currently a norm in several Islamic countries all around the world.

In conclusion

Abayas symbolizes modesty in the best way possible. Its timeless design and comfortable fabric makes it even more enhancing. Not only does this piece of garment represent religion, it also represents culture. Finding comfortable Abayas with beautiful styles might be a bit tricky, that is why Malsra does the best job in providing the top notch and high quality abayas to its customers. No need to look further as we provide Abayas with best fabrics and designs. Happy shopping!