I Wanted My Abaya to Look Expensive, So I Changed Just 5 Things
I was standing in front of my wardrobe thinking the same thing I always seemed to think.
I need a new abaya.
But when I looked at what I already owned, I realised something.
The problem wasn't my abaya.
It was how I was styling it.
So instead of buying another one, I decided to change five small things. And honestly, the difference surprised me.
1. I Changed My Hijab
The hijab can completely change the appearance of an abaya.
When I want a more polished look, I usually choose a hijab in a neutral shade that complements the abaya instead of matching it exactly.
For a black abaya, try beige, taupe, mocha, soft grey, or even a muted brown.
For a lighter abaya, a slightly deeper neutral can create beautiful contrast.
The key is to keep the overall colour palette intentional.
2. I Stopped Over-Accessorising
I used to think more accessories meant a more dressed-up outfit.
It didn't.
Sometimes too many accessories make an abaya look busy rather than luxurious.
Instead, I started choosing one or two details—a delicate watch, small earrings, a simple ring, or an elegant bracelet.
The abaya should still be the main focus.
3. I Paid Attention to My Handbag
This was probably the easiest change.
A structured handbag can instantly make a simple abaya look more polished.
You don't necessarily need a designer bag. Look for a clean shape, minimal branding, and a colour that works with your outfit.
Black, cream, tan, and chocolate brown are especially easy to style.
4. I Changed My Shoes
Shoes can completely change the mood of an abaya.
For everyday wear, simple flats or clean sneakers can keep the outfit relaxed.
For dinner or an evening event, pointed flats, elegant sandals, or heels can instantly make the same abaya feel more sophisticated.
The trick is choosing footwear that matches the occasion rather than trying to make every outfit look formal.
5. I Started Choosing Better Summer Fabrics
This one isn't really about styling—but it changed how my outfits looked and felt.
During summer, I want an abaya that feels light and comfortable but still has a beautiful drape.
Lightweight cotton and breathable fabrics can make a huge difference, especially when you're wearing an abaya for several hours.
When I'm looking for lightweight summer abayas, I prefer styles that combine comfort with a clean, elegant silhouette rather than designs that feel heavy.
Explore the summer abaya collection for breathable styles that are easy to incorporate into an everyday wardrobe.
The Same Abaya Can Look Completely Different
That's what surprised me most.
I could wear the same abaya with:
- A simple hijab and flats for errands
- A neutral hijab and structured bag for lunch
- Minimal jewellery and elegant sandals for dinner
- A monochrome hijab and accessories for a sophisticated look
The abaya hadn't changed.
My styling had.
What I Look for in a Summer Abaya Now
When shopping for summer pieces, I don't just look at the colour anymore.
I look at the fabric.
I want something breathable enough for warm weather, lightweight enough for everyday movement, and structured enough to maintain an elegant silhouette.
A well-designed summer abaya should make you feel comfortable without looking overly casual.
See lightweight abaya styles for warm weather if you're building a summer wardrobe around comfort and modest elegance.
You Don't Always Need to Buy Something New
This is probably the biggest lesson I took from the whole thing.
Before buying another abaya, try styling the one you already have differently.
Change the hijab.
Change the shoes.
Change the handbag.
Remove a few accessories.
Try a different colour combination.
Sometimes that's all it takes to make an old favourite feel completely new again.
And when you do decide to add something to your wardrobe, choose a piece that gives you plenty of styling options.
Find a versatile summer abaya that you can dress up, dress down, and wear throughout the warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Looking expensive isn't always about buying expensive clothes.
Sometimes it's about knowing when to keep things simple.
A beautiful abaya, a well-chosen hijab, a structured bag, clean shoes, and minimal accessories can be more than enough.
So the next time you stand in front of your wardrobe thinking I need another abaya, try changing the five things around it first.
You might already have everything you need.