The Ultimate Guide: How to Measure Abaya Size for a Perfect Fit

Many women struggle with abaya sizing—either ending up with one that’s too short, too long, or too tight in the wrong places.

At Modesque, we understand how important it is to feel comfortable in your abaya. That’s why we have created this guide to help you on how to measure abaya size accurately, so you never have to worry about sizing on your next abaya shopping. knowing your exact size will make the process seamless.

We will walk you through the step-by-step measuring tips, a UK size guide, and tips on how to shop for the right abaya, so you can always find the perfect fit.

Why is it important to get the right abaya size?

While most abayas are known for their loose and flowy tailoring, finding the right abaya size is still important. This ensures they are comfortable, you feel confident in it and they portray your style. A well-fitted abaya drapes beautifully, enhances your overall look, and allows for effortless movement. On the other hand, an abaya that isn’t the right fit feels restrictive and uncomfortable while loose ones are unnecessarily too big and feel uncomfortable for day-to-day activities. 

Most first-time buyers assume abayas are “one size fits all” which is untrue. In reality, different abaya styles require different measurements. For example, open abayas may need extra width for layering, while tailored abayas require precise measurements of the wearer for a perfect fit. 

The height is also another factor you want to consider. Individual height varies which means abayas length also no matter how insignificant it may seem. As an example so 5 ‘2 and 5’ 3 can sometimes share the same size depending on what footwear they will accessorise with. 

Tools for Abaya Measurement

A precise abaya measurement requires the right tool as any error while measuring means that the custom-sized abaya is either too big or too small. For a tailored-made abaya; it doesn’t fit in key areas like the shoulders, and sleeves or feels suffocating in the neck area.

Here are the tools you need for precise measurement.  

1. Measuring tape: opt for soft ones used for tailoring as it easily wraps smoothly around your body for precise measurements.
2. Full-length mirror(optional): A mirror helps you know exactly where to measure and position your tape properly. Alternatively, get someone to measure you for an accurate measurement.
3. A notepad(highly recommended): You will use this to record each measurement and (take note of any important details) to avoid confusion. You can also reference the abaya size guide at the point of buying (especially online).
4. An abaya(optional): If you already own an abaya that fits you perfectly, use it as a reference by measuring its length, shoulders, and sleeve size to compare with your new measurements.

Step-by-step guide on how to measure abaya size

Measuring your abaya size precisely ensures a perfect fit. Follow this step-by-step guide to get accurate measurements for your next abaya purchase.

Measuring your height/abaya length

Stand straight against a wall(if you are self-measuring) but if you are being measured, stand straight with your shoulders relaxed without wearing shoes. Then place the tape at the highest point of your shoulders (in between your neck and shoulder joints) and extend the tape down to your desired abaya length. This could be your ankle(for ankle length–measure to ankle bone), mid-calf(for calf measurement–measure to the midpoint of your calf), or floor length(measure to the floor–right beside your feet).

Ensure your tape is properly placed while taking this measurement and if you wear heels with an abaya consider adding an inch or 2 to your measurement.

Measuring your shoulder

This measurement ensures your abaya is balanced at the shoulder area. It isn’t narrow or too big.

You need assistance for a precise measurement in this aspect. Place the tape at one point of your shoulder to the opposite one (this is usually at the ball and socket joint of both shoulders). For proper measurement, ensure the measuring tape aligns with your natural shoulder size.

Measuring your Sleeve

This is almost similar to your shoulder measurement but for your arm. 

Start the measurement from your shoulder ball and socket joint(where your sleeves start from). Then extend the tape down to your desired arm measurement(usually the wrist bone). For flexible movement of your arm, measure your elbow point. For precise measurement, wrap the tape around your elbow then make your elbow slightly bent, extend the tape and measure this point for a natural movement. If your abaya is a cuffed or fitted sleeve, measure around your wrist for a perfect fit.

Measuring your Bust

Wrap the tape around your bust(usually the middle area–not above or below the bust for precise measurement). Ensure the tape is firm but not too tight–for proper fitting. For a modest outlook, lose the tape by a few inches while still maintaining your actual measurement.

Abaya size charts and conversions (UK)

Abaya sizes vary depending on the country you are shopping from, the UK, us, or middle east all use different sizing methods which can make it quite confusing when trying to shop abaya online. Most abayas are sized by length with inches for example 54 inches. However, some brands only give generic sizes like; small(s), medium(m), large(L), or extra large(XL) for plus size women. All these can be confusing, but if you are aware of your abaya measurement, you have one less thing to worry about when shopping abaya online.

Below is the size chart for different countries.

Tips for Buying the Abaya Online

Shopping online is clothing made easy especially if you know how to measure abaya size. For a smooth buying experience,  follow these tips.

1. Always check the abaya size guide: Before you shop for an abaya online, it’s important to check the brand’s size chart as they all have varying sizing guides that way you can compare it with your personal measurement and ensure you are picking the right size.
2. Read customer reviews to note any size issues: By reading reviews, you can see pictures and comments from real buyers and understand if the brand sizes run big or small. On the other hand, look out for customer reviews with similar size yours this will give you a better understanding when buying.
3. Check fabric descriptions: The type of fabric the abaya you are buying is made of determines how fitting it will be. Fabrics like chiffon gives a more relaxed outlook while jersey or cotton gives prim and proper style.
4. Look for adjustable options: This will help if you ever have any sizing issues. Opt for abayas with belts, adjustable sleeves or even open-front abayas for flexibility.
5. Check for the store return policy: This is important in situations whereby the abaya doesn’t fit and doesn’t meet your expectations. In some aspects you should have the option to return or exchange it.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect abaya size is important for your comfort. This is why it’s important to take accurate measurements to buy a perfectly fit abaya.

If you follow this guide to this point then you now know how to measure key areas like height, shoulder width, and overall abaya length. And you also understand that abaya sizes vary by brand country and you are aware of the different sizes conversions. 

At Modesque, we believe you are entitled to a well-fitted abaya for your modesty, comfort, confidence and style. Irrespective of whichever abaya you choose to buy, knowing your size will help you choose the perfect abaya for your needs.

Before making your next purchase, take a few minutes to measure yourself and compare it with the brand’s size guide. If you are ever in doubt, reaching out to their customer support for guidance it doesn’t harm anyone.