The Abaya is the long black robe-like garment which women in Saudi Arabia must wear over their clothes.
It is the traditional form of hijab, or Islamic dress, for many countries of the Arabian Peninsula such as the Unite Arab Emirates, where it is the national dress.
Young girls need not wear the abaya until around 8-9 years of age although some families may have their daughters wear them as early as 3-4 years of age.
Abayas do indeed come in an abundance of styles and designs although the majority of them are predominantly black. The abaya is worn to promote an image of modesty although there are also those who will say it is worn so as not to excite men who may then be unable to control themselves.
Saudi Arabia requires women to cover in public. Covering is enforced by the religious police, the muṭṭawwi‘īn (also known as the muttawwa).
Some Muslim women living in the West also cover themselves as part of their religion and culture.
Abayat are known by various names but serve the same purpose, which is to cover. Contemporary models are usually caftans, cut from light, flowing fabrics like crepe, georgette, and chiffon.
Styles differ from region to region: some abayat have embroidery on black material while others are brightly coloured and have different forms of artwork across them.
I read your write-up on Abayah, it is a nice piece and middle-course-approach to such an issue. I will like to comment on the concept of conservatism which you ended the write-up with. I beg to disagree with some of these nomanclatures. Most of these communites that re enforcing head-to-toes style were also thriving in their own way. I met someone who beliefs in this as way of keeping and maintaining women beauty, at least a protection from the impact of sun on the exposed parts of the body, while some takes it as a level of religion's understanding. No matter individual or communual stands may be, it is high time we gave an open approach to issues. On that principle the golden age of Islam was achieved. All my concern is how to emancipate the so called "free" and "non-free" muslimat from the slavery of taqlid and prepare them to face the challenges that are confronting our dear Ummah.
Muslims generally observe modest dress, but the variety of styles and colors have various names depending on the country. Here is a glossary of the most common names of Islamic clothing for both men and women, along with photos and descriptions.
This word is sometimes used to generally describe a Muslim women's modest dress. More specifically, it refers to a square or rectangular piece of fabric which is folded, placed over the head, and fastened under the chin as a head scarf. Depending on the style and location, this may also be called a shaylah or tarhah.