Butterfly abayas have gained popularity for their unique structure and versatile designs, perfectly balancing elegance with modesty. In contrast to traditional abayas, butterfly abayas feature long and flowy sleeves that give an abaya look breadth and grace. Butterfly abayas do not have to be standalone but styled with belts for a more fitted look. Because of their ebb and flow, butterfly abayas are beautiful choices for special occasions and events. In this blog, we will discuss a butterfly abaya, why to choose a butterfly abaya, the top styles of a butterfly abaya, where to buy butterfly abayas, and how to care for your butterfly abaya.
What is a Butterfly Abaya?
A butterfly abaya is a loose-fitting abaya with wide and flowing sleeves resembling a butterfly. In contrast to a traditional abaya, butterfly abayas have extra fabric connecting the sleeve, either mid-way or from the wrist to the torso of the abaya. These abayas are typically crafted from light and flowy materials, such as chiffon, georgette, or satin chiffon, accentuating their long, flowy, and elegant structure. How substantial the “butterfly effect” on a butterfly abaya can also vary. For a more dramatic look, the butterfly abaya can feature long swaths of fabric that can taper to the bottom of an abaya. For a more relaxed look, the wing of the abaya can start at the upper torso and end mid-arm. Butterfly abayas do not come in a specific style: they can be styled with or without belts, use pattered or solid colored fabric, and be open or closed front. Because of their unique structure and infinite designs, butterfly abayas have gained popularity as a more modern alternative to classic abaya structures.
Why Choose a Butterfly Abaya?
A butterfly abaya offers a unique twist compared to regular abayas; their flowing design gives a delicate feel while maintaining elegance and sophistication- making it suitable for formal events and parties. The butterfly style is a modern take on the traditional abaya but with an emphasis on the sleeves while maintaining the look and feel of a traditional abaya. Because of its uniqueness, this style is versatile and can be worn to many different events, as it displays elegance with the flow and modesty with the coverage. This versatility is often taken advantage of during Ramadan when women need to transition from Iftar parties to Taraweeh prayer reasonably quickly. Because the butterfly abaya encompasses elegance and modesty in one look, women can wear the same outfit from Iftar parties to prayer, eliminating the need to go home and change into different clothes.
Butterfly abayas offer versatile styling options, allowing you to adapt them for various occasions. Open-faced butterfly abayas are easy to put on and take off, perfect for showcasing different outfits for multiple occasions. Butterfly abayas can also be styled with a belt to allow you to adjust the fit to your preference. Lastly, you should choose a butterfly abaya for their comfort. Butterfly abayas are comfortable due to their lightweight and breathable fabrics. Comfort is critical when styling outfits, as this brings satisfaction and self-confidence to your day-to-day life. Wearing heavy fabrics on a hot day can be frustrating, and choosing fabrics that complement your day-to-day activities is crucial. Because butterfly abayas utilize certain fabrics to produce the “butterfly effect,” these lightweight fabrics also promote breathability on a warm day.
Top Styles of Butterfly Abayas
Butterfly abayas have gained popularity throughout the years, and here, we will discuss top styles of butterfly abayas. The first favored style of the butterfly abaya is the classic look. In the classic look, butterfly abayas are styled by themselves, typically with a monochromatic fabric with minimal embellishments. This type of look is perfect for day-to-day activities and casual outings. This style can also accompany a mosque look, as its adaptability makes it easy to throw on and off. The second favored style is the open-faced butterfly abaya. The open-faced butterfly abaya differs from the classic butterfly abaya, as it has an open-face look but maintains the “butterfly effect” on the sleeves. This highly versatile style can be worn with or without a belt, allowing for different looks. A detachable belt can accentuate the waist and provide a tailored look without compromising modesty.
Furthermore, abaya undergarments can also be styled with it, adding a layer of complexity to the look. The open-faced butterfly abaya lets you quickly change or layer outfits to showcase a secondary look. The last favored style of the butterfly abaya is the embellished look. Butterfly abayas with patterns, textures, embroideries, sequencing, and shimmer are all different takes on the embellished look. Embellished butterfly abayas are perfect for weddings and special occasions where you want to bring charm and luminosity to your look.
How to Style Your Butterfly Abaya
Styling your butterfly abaya allows you to express your personality, increase confidence, highlight your best features, and showcase your creativity. If you are looking into purchasing a butterfly abaya, these tips will give you additional options on how to style your abaya in fun and creative ways.
- Jewelry: choosing cool and unique accessories is a fun way to express yourself. Pairing a butterfly abaya with an Arabic nameplate necklace (or any nameplate in a language of your choice) can show off your culture and identity. Butterfly abayas pair well with custom Arabic name necklaces because of the large amount of space on the chest where the fabric is. You can layer necklaces, use an Arabic nameplate necklace in solitude, or even wear chunky earrings to draw attention to your face. Click here to glance at and create your very own Arabic custom nameplate necklace. If you care to stay more traditional, pair your butterfly abaya with an Ayatul Kursi necklace. Ayatul Kursi jewelry can be a constant reminder of your faith while introducing the beauty and elegance of Ayatul Kursi Jewelry. Click here to check out our Ayatul Kursi necklaces.
- Hijab Styles: You can pair your butterfly abaya with a matching or contrasting hijab. Choose ways you want to wear your hijab to compliment your look. Click here to see a guide on how to wrap your hijab. Because of the elegance and flowyness of the butterfly abaya, a layered or classic hijab look is recommended. Also, be wary of the hijab fabric you choose. Choose a fabric complimenting your butterfly abaya, accentuating its light and flowy structure. Chiffon is a recommended choice for pairing with a butterfly abaya. Take a look here to see our chiffon hijabs.
- Accessories: Lastly, accessorize your look with belts. Belts are a great way to show off your waist in a butterfly abaya look. Feeling engulfed by a butterfly abaya is sometimes easy, and using a belt can complement your figure. When choosing a belt, you can either select a matching belt or experiment with a different colored and textured belt. At Noureem, we provide a matching and detachable belt with our butterfly abayas, so you can choose to wear it or not!
Where to Buy Butterfly Abayas
When buying butterfly abayas, look at trusted online stores that offer high-quality fabrics and designs. Be sure to check reviews and ratings for that style to see if it’s popular and well-loved by others. Lastly, make sure the abaya comes with matching belts to ensure you can use it. At Noureem, we produce high-quality butterfly abayas with optional belts from the UAE. We do this to ensure our abayas' authenticity, quality, and craftsmanship. Furthermore, we offer a 30-day return policy for those who didn’t see their vision in the abaya they purchased. Check out our modern butterfly abayas here to see what style fits your vision!
Conclusion: Elevate Your Modest Wardrobe
Butterfly abayas epitomize modesty, elegance, comfort, and versatility. Whether enjoying day-to-day activities, entertaining at an event, or attending a wedding, butterfly abayas are the perfect look for countless occasions. Whether you prefer the flowing beauty of the classic butterfly abaya or the tailored look with a belt, Noureem has the options for you. Explore the latest designs on Noureem and add a touch of grace to your wardrobe today!