One of the easiest ways to stay warm in an abaya is to build your outfit with thin layers and choose an abaya and coat that leave room to move.
What you need depends on the temperature, how long you will be outside, and the abaya you already own. A lightweight abaya works with thermal layers and a coat, while a winter abaya can reduce the layers you need underneath.
What to Wear Under an Abaya in Winter
The layers underneath your abaya make a significant difference to how comfortable you feel outdoors. Instead of immediately reaching for a thick sweater, start with a close-fitting base and add warmth only where necessary.
Start With a Thin Thermal Base Layer
A long-sleeved thermal top can provide an extra layer of insulation without taking up much space under an abaya. Thermal leggings can also help keep your legs warm, particularly when your abaya is lightweight.
Merino wool and some synthetic performance fabrics can help manage moisture while keeping you warm. A thin base layer is easier to wear under an abaya than a bulky sweatshirt because it keeps the silhouette smooth.
In milder weather, this may be all you need under a regular abaya.
Add a Second Layer When the Weather Requires It
When temperatures drop further, add one more lightweight layer rather than several heavy ones: a thin sweater, cardigan, full-length inner dress, or fleece-lined leggings.
The Hafsa Abaya is one option for everyday dressing when you want a simple base that can be adapted to different temperatures with your inner layers and coat. It comes in multiple colour options, including neutral and darker shades.
Which Abaya Fabrics Work Best in Winter?
The fabric of your abaya affects how warm it feels, how it hangs over your layers, and how easy it is to wear with a coat.
Wool Blends
Wool blends can provide useful insulation, but warmth varies according to the percentage of wool, the thickness of the fabric, and how the garment is constructed. A wool-blend abaya can be practical for cold weather when paired with suitable layers and outerwear.
Heavy Crepe
Heavy crepe has a more substantial drape than lightweight crepe and can be a practical choice for cooler weather. However, fabric weight alone does not make an abaya suitable for freezing temperatures, so additional layers may still be necessary.
The Sawda Textured Crepe Abaya is another option for an everyday abaya with a textured crepe finish.
Explore Sawda Textured Crepe Abaya
Thick Jersey
Thick jersey is flexible and comfortable, making it useful for everyday winter dressing. Its stretch can also make movement more comfortable when wearing layers underneath. One thing to consider is that some jersey fabrics can cling to thermal leggings or other inner clothing, particularly when static builds up in dry weather.
Velvet
Velvet can work well for winter occasions because of its heavier feel and soft surface. Its warmth depends on the weight of the velvet and whether the garment has a lining. For formal events, consider the complete outfit rather than relying on the velvet abaya alone for protection from outdoor temperatures.
Corduroy
Corduroy is a practical option for cooler weather because its ribbed, textured construction gives it a heavier feel than many lightweight abaya fabrics. It can work well for everyday winter outfits, particularly when paired with a comfortable inner layer and suitable outerwear.
Heavyweight Winter Fabrics
Heavyweight winter abayas can provide additional insulation and reduce the need for multiple layers underneath. The trade-off is that heavier fabrics can add volume, so check how comfortably the sleeves and shoulders fit before adding another coat.
Muslimah Collection’s Premium Oversized Hooded Winter Abaya is made from 360 GSM, 100% premium cotton and has an oversized, full-length design.
Explore Premium Oversized Hooded Winter Abaya
How to Wear a Winter Coat Over an Abaya
A winter coat should accommodate the abaya rather than compress it. When trying on a coat, check the shoulders, upper arms, and chest while wearing the layers you expect to use underneath.
Long wool coats suit cold, dry weather and cover the length of a long abaya. In wind, snow, or freezing rain, an insulated coat with water-resistant or waterproof protection can be more practical.
Sleeve width also matters. If your abaya has wide or batwing sleeves, a narrow coat sleeve can push the fabric upward and create uncomfortable bunching around your arms. A coat with wider sleeves or a roomier cut is usually easier to layer over a flowing abaya.
How to Choose Hijabs, Boots and Winter Accessories
Choose a Warmer Hijab
Heavier jersey or wool-blend hijabs can feel more comfortable in cold weather than very lightweight fabrics. A jersey hijab can also be useful when you want a fabric with a comfortable, flexible fit while moving between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Add a scarf for your neck and gloves for your hands. If you use hijab magnets or pins, check that they hold the fabric without damaging it.
Pick Boots for the Conditions
Ankle boots can work well with everyday abayas, while knee-high boots provide more coverage in colder conditions. For snow or icy weather, insulated waterproof boots are more practical than footwear chosen only for appearance.
Wear socks that provide enough warmth without making your boots too tight. Good traction is also important when walking on snow or ice.
Pay Attention to the Abaya Hem
A long abaya can pick up moisture from slush and snow, particularly when walking outdoors for extended periods. If the hem is close to the ground, check it before stepping outside and avoid allowing it to sit underneath the heel of your boots.
Winter Abaya Outfit Ideas for Different Temperatures
Here are three combinations to adapt to your local weather.
Outfit 1: A Mild Winter Day
Wear a regular abaya over a lightweight long-sleeved layer, with a thin cardigan or medium-weight coat, a hijab, and closed shoes or ankle boots. This can work when you'll spend limited time outside.
Outfit 2: A Cold Day Outdoors
Start with a thermal top and leggings, then add a winter-weight abaya and an insulated coat. Pair it with a warm hijab, thick socks, and ankle or knee-high boots.
Outfit 3: Snowy or Freezing Weather
In freezing or snowy weather, consider thermal base layers, a warm abaya, and an insulated coat, with waterproof boots, warm socks, gloves, and a hijab that covers your head and neck.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wearing an Abaya in Winter
Can I Wear a Regular Abaya in Winter, or Do I Need a Winter Abaya?
You can wear a regular abaya in winter if you combine it with thermal layers and a coat. Whether you need a winter abaya depends on the fabric, your local temperature, and how much time you spend outdoors
A lightweight abaya may be enough for mild weather, particularly when paired with suitable layers. In colder climates, a heavier winter abaya is more convenient because it insulates without needing several layers underneath.
Should I Buy a Larger Abaya to Fit Winter Layers Underneath?
Not necessarily. Check the fit around your shoulders, chest, and arms while wearing the layers you expect to use.
A much larger abaya leaves excess fabric that is harder to manage. Look for one with enough ease for your usual layers.
How Can I Stop My Abaya From Clinging to Thermal Leggings in Winter?
Static builds up in dry winter air and makes fabrics cling. Wear a cotton or viscose slip over your leggings, since some synthetic fabrics can contribute to static. You can also use an anti-static spray, but check the care label first.
How Do I Stop an Open Abaya From Blowing Open in Winter?
A button, snap, or inner tie keeps an open abaya in place in the wind. Hijab magnets may be less effective on heavier or thicker fabrics.
Wear an opaque inner dress or matching modest outfit underneath so you don't have to keep adjusting the abaya when the wind moves it.
Is a Thick or Fleece-Lined Abaya Enough for Freezing Temperatures?
Not always. Strong wind, snow, or severe cold can get through even a thick or fleece-lined abaya. For freezing conditions, combine thermal layers, an insulated weather-resistant coat, warm accessories, and winter boots.