Sheilas, pins, and finishing touches that complete a modest look.
Abaya Style Guide
An abaya is rarely worn alone — the sheila, the pins that hold it in place, the bag, and the finishing scent all play a part in completing the look. The Dubai Mall offers thoughtful options for these details, from the dedicated abaya specialist to general accessory stores whose pieces work beautifully alongside modest dressing. Here is where to shop for abaya accessories at The Dubai Mall.
Mauzan — Beyond abayas themselves, Mauzan offers its own perfume line alongside its clothing collections, letting you complete a coordinated look with a signature scent designed to complement the brand’s aesthetic in a single visit.
The Sheila and Headscarf
The sheila, or headscarf, is typically chosen to either match or elegantly contrast with the abaya itself. Lightweight chiffon and jersey sheilas are popular for their ease of draping and breathability, while satin and silk-blend versions add a more formal sheen for special occasions. Many women keep a rotation of neutral sheilas that pair easily with multiple abayas.
Pins and Practical Fastenings
Simple magnetic pins or traditional straight pins keep a sheila secure through a full day, and having a few in reserve is a genuinely practical habit, since they are easy to misplace. Decorative pins with subtle crystal or pearl detailing can also serve as a small styling accent for occasion wear, adding polish without overwhelming the overall look.
Jewellery That Suits Modest Dressing
Delicate, understated jewellery tends to pair most naturally with an abaya’s modest silhouette — a simple pendant, stud earrings, or a slim bracelet add polish without overwhelming the look. Swarovski and Pandora, both found in the mall, offer accessible pieces well suited to this understated approach, while statement jewellery is better reserved for occasion wear.
Bags That Pair Well with Abayas
Structured handbags in neutral tones tend to complement an abaya’s clean lines particularly well, while the accessories floor of the mall’s many fashion stores — from Aldo to Charles & Keith — offers plenty of options in versatile black, tan, and metallic finishes that work across both everyday and occasion abayas.
Perfume and Bakhoor
Fragrance holds particular cultural significance alongside abaya dressing, with oud and incense-based scents traditionally favoured for special occasions. Beyond Mauzan’s own line, the mall’s dedicated perfume houses offer a wide range of oud, oil-based attars, and bakhoor suited to layering with or scenting an abaya before a special event.
Sunglasses and Everyday Finishing Touches
A well-chosen pair of sunglasses, given Dubai’s intense sun, both protects the eyes and adds a polished finish to an everyday abaya look. Simple, well-made accessories generally work best alongside an abaya’s own clean silhouette, letting the garment itself remain the visual focus rather than competing for attention.
Footwear to Finish the Outfit
Comfortable flats or low block heels tend to work best with an abaya’s flowing length, since very high heels can catch on the hem during regular movement. Neutral tones — black, nude, or metallic — pair most versatily across different abaya colours, while a slightly dressier sandal or heel suits occasion pieces where more of the shoe is visible.
Completing the Look
From Mauzan’s coordinated perfume offering to the sheilas, pins, bags, and fragrances found across The Dubai Mall, the small details genuinely matter in modest dressing. Take the time to choose accessories that complement rather than compete with your abaya, and the finished look will feel considered from head to toe.
