Abaya vs Khimar: What's the Difference?

Abaya and khimar are both modest garments, but they cover different parts of the body. If you are choosing between them - or wondering whether to wear both - this short guide breaks down the real difference, when each one fits, and how they work together.

What is an abaya?

An abaya is a full-length robe worn over your clothes, covering the body from shoulders to ankles. It is the outer layer of an outfit. At Lunar Elegance our abayas come as open-front robes, closed pieces with an attached hijab, and coordinated two-piece sets.

What is a khimar?

A khimar is a head covering that drapes from the head down past the shoulders and chest - sometimes to the waist - giving fuller coverage than a standard hijab shawl. It is worn over the head and pairs with separate clothing underneath. (Note: we currently carry abayas and hijabs rather than a dedicated khimar, so below we link the closest coverage pieces we do sell.)

The key difference: coverage

The simplest way to remember it: the abaya covers the body, the khimar covers the head and extends down the front for extra modesty. An abaya alone leaves your headscarf to you; a khimar alone leaves your body outfit to you. They solve different halves of the same look.

When to wear each

• Abaya - best when you want one throw-on layer that makes any outfit underneath modest and polished.
• Khimar - best when you want fuller face-and-chest coverage from a single headpiece, often for prayer or added modesty.

Can you wear both?

Yes. Many women layer a khimar-style headpiece over a closed abaya for maximum coverage, or pair a long hijab with an open-front abaya. The two are complementary, not either-or.

What we carry at Lunar Elegance

We do not currently stock a dedicated khimar, but these pieces give you the same coverage path:

• Closed Abaya with Attached Hijab - full body plus head cover in one pull-on piece.
• Black Lace Open-Front Abaya - pair it with a long hijab for customizable coverage.
• Keffiyeh Chiffon Hijab - a lightweight, longer headscarf for extended drape.
• Printed Jersey Hijab - a soft, stay-put everyday headscarf.

FAQ

Which is more modest? A khimar gives fuller head-and-chest coverage; an abaya gives fuller body coverage. Together they are the most covering.

Can I start with just an abaya? Yes - an open-front or closed abaya is the easiest first step, then add a hijab you like.