How to Style Abayas for Summers?

Abayas are more than a garment—they represent elegance, modesty, and cultural heritage. But when summer arrives, even the most devoted abaya wearers face a dilemma: how to stay cool without sacrificing style or modesty.

Perfecting summer abaya styling is about balancing lightweight comfort with graceful sophistication. With thoughtful fabric choices, flowing cuts, airy colors, the right footwear, and carefully chosen accessories, you can enjoy every summer day feeling both cool and confident.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to style your abayas in summer using expert tips and practical advice so you can confidently step out, whether for a beach picnic, brunch with friends, or a formal evening event.

Opt for Flowing and Open Styles

The silhouette of your abaya is just as important as the fabric when it comes to summer abaya styling. The goal is to maintain airflow while preserving modesty and elegance.

Open-front abayas are an excellent option because they allow for maximum ventilation and can be styled in multiple ways. Layering an open-front abaya over a sleeveless maxi dress or a breezy cotton slip dress keeps the outfit light, airy, and versatile. This style is ideal for casual outings, evening walks, or running errands during the day.

Kaftan-style abayas are beloved for their wide, flowing cuts. Their loose drape enhances comfort and creates a relaxed regal appearance. A kaftan abaya is a perfect match for summer lunches, casual garden parties, or seaside dinners. Its relaxed structure makes you feel as though you're enveloped in a gentle breeze.

Bisht abayas, inspired by traditional Gulf attire, also provide a relaxed and graceful shape. Their wide cape-like design offers unmatched freedom of movement and ensures you stay cool while looking sophisticated. This style works beautifully for travel days, outdoor events, and casual get-togethers.

Choosing abayas with shorter hemlines, side slits, or A-line shapes also improves breathability and adds a contemporary touch to your overall outfit.

Layering with Lightweight Innerwear

Layering is an integral part of summer abaya styling, but it must be approached with care to avoid adding bulk and heat. The focus should be on lightweight innerwear. Choose sleeveless maxi dresses, thin-strapped slip dresses, or cotton co-ord sets as your inner base. These pieces add shape to your abaya look without compromising breathability.

Avoid thick, heavy underlayers that trap heat and create discomfort. Instead, opt for fabrics that are soft, smooth, and breathable. This allows for a cool base layer that supports the airy design of your abaya. Choosing inner layers in complementary colors or subtle prints can also add a hidden layer of style that reveals itself beautifully when you move.

Hijab Pairing: Complementing Your Abaya

Hijab selection is a crucial part of summer abaya styling and can completely transform your outfit. Lightweight hijabs in fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or jersey are ideal. They are breathable, easy to drape, and help with sun protection without trapping heat.

Match pastel abayas with similarly toned hijabs for a monochromatic, elongated look. For example, a mint green abaya with a mint or ivory chiffon hijab feels soft and serene. For printed abayas, choose solid-colored hijabs to balance the look, or pick a hijab with a subtle print that echoes the color palette of your abaya.

Hijab coordination also involves considering your face shape and personal comfort. Experiment with different draping styles, like loose wraps for casual days or turban styles for beach outings.

Jewelry and Summer Accessories

When it comes to jewelry in summer, the mantra is simple: minimalist approach.

Choose thin, delicate chains, small stud earrings, or dainty bracelets. These pieces enhance your outfit without overwhelming it or causing discomfort in the heat. If you love rings, opt for one or two fine rings instead of heavy statement pieces. For a touch of elegance at evening events, consider a delicate layered necklace or fine anklet.

Summer accessories like sunglasses are both practical and stylish. Oversized sunglasses or cat-eye frames add a touch of glamour while providing UV protection. Opt for lightweight bags—consider a small crossbody or a straw clutch to keep the look breezy and effortless.

Consider Cuts and Lengths

Choosing the right cut and length in summer abaya styling is essential for comfort and elegance. Abayas with shorter hemlines, subtle side slits, or A-line silhouettes promote better airflow, reducing the risk of overheating.

A-line cuts are flattering on all body types and offer ease of movement, making them perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Experimenting with prints can add personality and visual interest to your look. Floral prints evoke a summery, joyful spirit, while geometric patterns offer a modern, chic vibe. Always balance prints with solid colors—for instance, a printed inner dress under a plain open-front abaya or a printed hijab paired with a neutral abaya.

Choose the Right Footwear

The final touch to perfecting summer abaya styling is your choice of footwear. Open-toe sandals, airy slides, or ventilated mules keep your feet cool and complement the flowy silhouette of your abaya.

Flats in neutral colors like beige, white, or soft metallic tones ensure versatility and maintain a harmonious overall look. These shoes pair effortlessly with your abaya and allow you to move comfortably through long summer days.

Final Thoughts

Summer abaya styling is all about embracing lightness, breathability, and elegance without sacrificing modesty. By focusing on lightweight fabrics, flowy and open designs, pastel and neutral colors, and minimal accessories, you create outfits that let you celebrate every summer moment in style. With these detailed tips, your abaya transforms into a versatile statement piece—one that keeps you cool and confident whether you're traveling, attending summer brunches, or simply enjoying a sunny stroll.

Ready to Refresh Your Summer Wardrobe?

Discover the elegance and comfort of Basic Abaya, designed with breathable fabrics, flowy cuts, and timeless colors perfect for summer.

Shop our new summer collection now and up your abaya styling game effortlessly!

What Colors Work Best for Summer Abayas?

The best colors for summer abayas are white, pastel colors, light neutrals, light blue, soft pink and blush, and mint green and light sage. These colors not only reflect sunlight but also add a fresh, elegant vibe perfect for warm weather.

What are the Best Fabrics for Summer Abayas?

The best fabrics for summer abayas are Cotton, Linen, Chiffon, Crepe, Georgette, Jersey, Silk, Rayon, Satin, Lawn. These abaya fabrics allow air to flow freely, keeping you cool and comfortable in the hot weather. Each fabric offers its own unique blend of elegance and ease—whether it’s the lightweight, flowy grace of chiffon or the relaxed, breathable charm of linen.

Which Fabrics Should You Avoid for Summer Abayas?

Avoid heavy fabrics like wool, polyester blends, velvet, and thick synthetic materials in summer because they trap heat and restrict airflow. These fabrics don’t breathe well, causing sweat buildup and discomfort during hot weather. They can feel heavy on the skin and make you overheat quickly, which goes against the goal of staying cool and comfortable.

These fabrics are better suited for cooler months or evening events in mild climates. Wool and velvet provide warmth and a luxurious feel, making them ideal for winter abayas or formal occasions when temperature control is less of a concern. Polyester blends, depending on the weave, can sometimes be used for structured or embellished abayas but generally are not recommended for summer wear due to low breathability.

Is Chiffon Abaya Good for Summer?

Yes! Chiffon is lightweight, breathable, and flowy, making it ideal for summer. It allows excellent air circulation, keeping you cool even on hot days. Its sheer texture adds an elegant, delicate look, perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Plus, chiffon drapes beautifully, giving your abaya a graceful, feminine silhouette without feeling heavy.

Is Georgette Abaya Good for Summer?

Georgette is slightly heavier than chiffon but remains breathable and lightweight. It offers a subtle texture that adds sophistication to your look, with a nice drape that flatters many body types. Georgette is perfect for summer evenings or milder hot weather, providing modest coverage without overheating. It’s also wrinkle-resistant, making it convenient for travel and day-long wear.

Is Jersey Abaya Good for Summer?

Jersey is soft, stretchy, and comfortable, providing ease of movement. However, it tends to be thicker and less breathable than chiffon or georgette, so it’s not the best choice for very hot weather. Jersey works well in mild or cooler climates and is great for layering or casual wear when you want flexibility and softness against the skin.

Does Basic Abaya Offer Summer Abayas?

Yes! Basic Abaya has launched a dedicated summer abaya collection designed with breathable fabrics and stylish cuts perfect for warm weather.

What Are Basic Abaya Best Summer Abayas?

Some of Basic Abaya’s best summer abayas include:

1. Basic Print Palm Tree (Brown Abaya) – a warm‑toned crepe abaya patterned with delicate palm‑tree prints for subtle, breezy summer elegance
2. Basic Print Blossom (Purple Abaya) – lightweight and airy, this violet‑hued abaya features a refined floral motif perfect for garden brunches or relaxed evening outings.
3. Basic Scallop (Olive Green Abaya) – classic and understated, with scalloped hem detailing that adds just the right hint of edge to olive crepe. 
4. Basic Scallop (Grey Abaya) – a minimalist favorite with cool grey tones and scalloped transitions that dress up everyday modest wear. 
5. Basic Luna Pleated (Mid Night Blue Abaya) – navy blue meets dramatic pleats for movement and structure in an abaya that’s both chic and cool. 
6. Basic Waves (Pastel Blue Abaya) – soft blue hues ripple through wave‑lined crepe, giving this piece an ultra‑light, flowing silhouette. 
7. Basic Arabic Prints Reversible (Dark Grey Abaya) – versatile and clever: one side shows subtle Arabic calligraphy in dark grey, the other offers a plain tone for two looks in one. 
8. Basic Circles (Black & Green Abaya) – bold circular prints in green leap off a black canvas – a playful yet refined option for modest-meets-modern styling. 
9. Basic Flowers (Orange Abaya) – energetic orange floral designs on lightweight fabric bring summer brightness to everyday modest fashion. 
10. Basic Double Reversible (Black/Brown Abaya) – dual-color reversible design in black and rich brown marries versatility with tailored clean lines

Explore these styles for comfort and elegance all season long!

What Are the Prices of Summer Abayas at Basic Abaya?

At Basic Abaya, the Summer Abayas collection prices start from AED 300. Here’s what you get at this price:

• Breathable, high-quality fabrics that keep you cool
• Lightweight and comfortable designs perfect for summer
• Expert craftsmanship with durable stitching
• Elegant styles that blend modesty with modern fashion
• Versatile abayas ideal for casual or formal occasions