A quick review of global fashion trends for women will reveal that if there is one segment that has experienced a significant makeover in the recent past and has undergone a sea change, it is undoubtedly the wardrobe of the 21st century Muslim woman.
Interestingly enough, this transition Jilbab has in no way touched the real essence of Islamic attire. Outfits and accessories that were worn hundreds of years ago are still worn today with pride and enthusiasm by Muslim women around the world. Abayas, jilbabs, niqabs and hijabs, all of which constitute the essential Muslim ensemble for women, continue to remain in vogue in terms of their conservative look, design and the underlying style. The change, however, is subtle. It is fashionable in many parts of the world today to vary the colors, patterns and the craftsmanship which adorns Muslim fashions. Moreover, reputed designers have been successfully experimenting with fabric, texture, prints hues and other considerations such as embroidery, beads and lace without modifying the core design.
Linking Fashion with Culture
The arrival of Internet e-commerce on the worldwide fashion horizon in which you can purchase just about any type of outfit online regardless of its origin and ethnicity has also reached out and touched Muslim fashions. Abayas are no exception. You can now wear exquisitely designed and elegantly made abayas even if you are thousands of miles away from a community store. What is more, online abaya stores will even customize your abayas. These made-to-measure abayas, also known as bespoke abayas, are shipped to you only after your comments and specifications have been taken into active consideration.
Ordering tailor-made Abayas Online
Until recently, trying to find online abaya stores was a major uphill exercise. Today, there are many online retail outlets like ours which sell creatively designed and attractive-looking abayas at highly affordable prices. But then as they say, one size does not fit all. Online abaya stores have risen to the occasion and have begun to provide what can be best described as a custom abaya making service. As a consumer, there are a few factors you should consider when making an online custom abaya purchase:
Provide accurate measurements
Many online abaya stores, also known as abaya boutiques, provide size charts on their websites. These charts can be confusing once in a while. For instance, the UK size 14 and the US size 10 coincidentally happen to be the same. It is also an excellent idea to measure yourself and submit your measurements to the online abaya store, an exercise you will have to perform only once. Sending you an improperly fitted abaya not only inconveniences you but also creates extra issues for the store. If you have an old abaya that you don't wear but fits you like a charm, ship it to the abaya store with the store's permission. It will cost you only a couple of dollars to do so but your measurement challenges will be resolved for life!
A Picture is worth a thousand words
If there is a specific abaya style or design that you like, take a picture and send it to the online abaya store! Chances are that the store either has something very similar which it can either send you after custom alteration or can actually customize from inception. Online abaya stores will work with you closely because in the abaya business, a satisfied customer is a customer for life.
Amrish Goel is the CEO Abayaof, a leading international online store and boutique for Muslim fashions and fashion accessories including abayas, hijabs and jilbabs that not only combine fashion with tradition but can also be customized at highly affordable prices. Visit MyBatua and experience the thrill of owning your very own wardrobe in a wide array of designs, colors, styles and fabric. Amrish is also a member of an elite group of hijab bloggers so be sure to visit his blog on the website.