How to Style a Khimar: 5 Everyday Drapes for Full Coverage

A khimar is a long, cape-like head covering that falls past the shoulders and chest in one piece, so the coverage is built in rather than assembled from separate layers. That single design choice is why it is one of the easiest full-coverage options to wear day to day. If you already read what a khimar is, this guide picks up where the definition leaves off: how to actually drape it.

The short version: centre it, decide where the front edges meet, and pin lightly if you need it to stay. Below are five drapes from the simplest to the most dressed-up, all using one piece.

1 — The classic centre drape

Place the khimar centred on the head with the front edges meeting at the collarbone. Let both sides fall naturally over the shoulders. This is the default look and the one to learn first, because every other drape below is a small variation of it.

Best for: everyday errands, school runs, anything routine.

2 — The side sweep

Start from the centre drape, then bring the right front edge diagonally across the chest and let the left edge hang straight. The diagonal line flatters the neck and reads a little more styled without any extra pieces. A printed khimar from the range shows this sweep best, because the pattern makes the diagonal visible.

Best for: meet-ups, a calmer day out.

3 — The doubled front for wind

Bring both front edges forward and cross them once at the chest, then spread the doubled fabric across the shoulders. Two passes mean no gap opens when you lean forward or when the wind picks up. This is the drape to use on blustery days or with small children in tow.

Best for: windy weather, active errands.

4 — The open layer over an abaya

Wear the khimar open, like a long veil, over an open-front abaya or a long cardigan. The khimar adds a second modesty layer and frames the face, while the abaya underneath carries the structure. For the fabric logic behind this, the hijab fabric guide covers which weaves breathe best through a long day.

Best for: travel, layered looks, cooler evenings.

5 — The pinned cascade for an evening

Sweep one long edge across the chest and pin it lightly at the shoulder, leaving the other edge to hang. The asymmetry reads intentional rather than accidental, and it lengthens the silhouette. Keep the tone quiet for a soft, composed finish.

Best for: dinners out, events, photo days.

Fabric notes

Light chiffon and crinkle weaves suit warmer days because they move air; jersey or a viscose blend grips better and stays put with less pinning. If you are new to draping, start with a knit, then move to chiffon once the motions are muscle memory. For five repeatable hijab drapes on a smaller scale, the 5 easy hijab styles guide is a good companion read.

Three habits that make it easier

1. An undercap helps. A close-fitting cap in a matching tone keeps short layers tidy and stops the scalp showing through thinner weaves, even though the khimar already covers the neck.
2. Pin once, not twice. Most drapes need a single light pin at the shoulder. Over-pinning makes the fabric stiff and defeats the soft fall that makes a khimar look good.
3. Wash cold, dry flat. Flat drying keeps the edge from curling and the print sharp, so the drape falls clean next time.

Frequently asked questions

Do I still need a separate hijab under a khimar?

Usually no, the khimar covers the hair and neck in one piece. An undercap is enough to keep everything tidy; add a separate hijab only if you want extra volume or a colour contrast at the face.

Which length should I choose?

Each product page lists its own dimensions, so match the drape to the length rather than assuming one size fits every style. A longer cut gives the cascading looks more room to fall.

Is a khimar comfortable in heat?

A light chiffon or crinkle khimar breathes well and the open drape moves air around the neck. For hot outdoor days, choose the lightest weave you have and the simplest centre drape.

Can I wear it with an abaya?

Yes, and it is one of the most composed combinations: the khimar as the head and shoulder layer, the abaya as the body layer. See drape 4 above for the open-layer method.

Start with one drape

You do not need all five today. Learn the centre drape, wear it until it is automatic, then add the side sweep. The rest follow once the first one is second nature.

Explore the full Hijabs & Khimars range or see what is new in New Arrivals.