8 Stylish Ways on How to Wear Abaya in Winter

Winter is here, and with it comes the challenge of staying warm without compromising modesty or style. For those who love wearing abayas, the colder months can be tricky—how do you maintain elegance while ensuring comfort in chilly weather? This is why we are here–with the right styling techniques, you don’t have to choose between modesty, warmth or fashion.

A modest fashion should be comfortable and adaptable to every season. There are plenty of ways to layer, accessorise, and style your abaya to suit the winter season while staying true to your modest aesthetic.

In this blog, we will share 8 stylish ways to wear an abaya in winter—ensuring you stay warm, stylish, and comfortable.

How to wear Abaya in winter?

1. Choose winter fabrics

The first step to staying warm in winter is to choose the right fabrics. During winter, opt for fabrics that provide warmth like; velvet, fleece-lined cotton, or cashmere blend fabrics. These materials are winter-ready fabrics that will give you warmth during winter months.

However, on days when it’s extremely cold, consider double-layered abayas or abayas with an inner lining for more warmth. And if you must wear an abaya with light fabrics, layer with thermal wear to stay warm all through the day.

    2. Layer with Turtlenecks and sweaters

Layering with cloth items like sweaters or turtlenecks is another way to stay warm in winter without compromising on your modest look. Wear them underneath your abaya to stay warm and maintain a structured overall outfit. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics like cashmere, merino wool, or ribbed cotton to ensure warmth without feeling bulky.

For a casual look, pair an open abaya with a neutral turtle neck. On days you need to be stylish, opt for a fine knit sweater to compliment your look. Remember that if your abaya has wide sleeves, choose a fitted turtleneck to maintain a balanced outfit. 

     3. Wear thermal leggings or wide-leg pants underneath

Another way to stay warm in winter is by layering with thermal leggings. Most abayas are known to be flowy and loose, which means there is plenty of room for cold to creep in. But to have one less thing to worry about in winter and keep the cold at bay opt for thermal leggings. 

They are a great option for maximum warmth, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters. Opt for fleece-lined or heat-retaining leggings in neutral shades to blend easily under your abaya.

Wide-leg knit pants are perfect for an open or buttoned abaya. For extra warmth, layer high-waisted thermal leggings underneath wide-leg pants plus a turtle neck coupled with wide sleeves open abaya. For a balanced look, ensure they are neutral colours or complementary colours

     4. Style with a coat or cape

A coat or cape is a general winter essential to have in your wardrobe. It elevates any abaya outfit while keeping you warm but there’s a catch. When choosing a coat outerwear for your abaya, opt for an oversized one like a trench coat to avoid looking bulky or untidy. 

Also ensure to opt for neutral colours like beige, camel, or charcoal. If you need a bit of drama with your outfit while still maintaining modesty and warmth, opt for flowy capes that feature faux fur trims or embroidery 

      5. Accessorise with scarf

Accessorising with a scarf is another way to wear an abaya in winter while keeping you warm. A scarf protects you from the cold and elevates your look. Opt for scarfs with thick materials like; pashmina, wool, and cashmere for warmth.

To properly complement your overall look, drape the scarf loosely around your shoulders(for hijabis this scarf is different from your head scarf). For extra warmth, wrap it around your neck in layers.

     6. Choose the right shoes for winter

Your choice of shoes also plays an important role in keeping you warm while wearing abaya in winter. During winter, ankle boots, knee-high boots, and loafers are some shoes to consider. You can opt for leather or suede boots with a low heel to feel more comfortable. 

Alternatively, choose fur-lined or insulated boots for extra warmth in harsher winter climates. If your abaya has a flowy, loose fit, opt for slim-fitting boots to balance your outfit. Chunkier boots are the go-to for more tailored abayas.

      7. Layer with a cardigan or blazer

Layering your abaya with a long cardigan or structured blazer is a great way to add warmth while maintaining a stylish, modest look. A longline knit cardigan is perfect for casual outings or workwear. Opt for neutral shades like beige, grey, or camel for a balanced overall look, or go for rich winter tones like deep burgundy or forest green to match winter aesthetics.

For a more balanced look, layer a tailored blazer over your abaya. A structured blazer in wool or tweed can elevate your outfit, making it ideal for formal occasions, business meetings, or evening wear. Double-breasted and belted blazers also help define your outfit while keeping you warm.

      8. Add a belt for a stylish look

A belt is a must-have accessory in winter. Layering sometimes can make your outfit look bulky but with a belt, your outfit will look more put together and tidy. A belt helps define the waist, creating a structured look while maintaining modesty.

To look put together, choose a leather belt to cinch a loose abaya. If you prefer a flowy style, go for a fabric belt in a matching or contrasting colour. Wide belts work for a modern edge, while thin, belts give a subtle look. A belted abaya pairs well with ankle boots and a tailored coat, making it an ideal outfit for both casual and formal winter settings.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t mean you must compromise modesty or style when wearing an abaya. You can stay warm while looking modest and stylish by choosing the right fabrics, layering properly, and accessorising thoughtfully. All the styling tips we mentioned above ensure that your abaya remains both practical and fashionable throughout the colder months. Embrace the season with confidence, knowing that you can stay comfortable and stylish no matter how low the temperatures drop.