Design

The Bisht abaya style has a similar to design to the full butterfly style but unlike the butterfly, it has no seam to define the body or sleeves.  This gives the abaya an open width which allows it to fit loosely on every body type.  The style is actually very similar to the traditional overhead (without sleeves) but instead of being worn on the head, it is worn on the shoulders.  Compared to other shoulder abayas, the bisht provides superior coverage which is almost equivalent to an overhead. 

Sleeve Design

The side edges of the bisht abaya can be shaped in two ways - they can be gradually tapered in towards the bottom of the garment or they can be square shaped.  The tapered sides  reduce the amount of excess fabric which makes the abaya more manageable when worn.  The tapering also prevents the sides from dragging below the actual length of the garment.  As for the square sides, this design does provide more coverage since it includes much more fabric.  However, the square sides can be impractical depending on where the abaya is being worn since the sides have a tendency to drag.

Tapered vs. Square Sides - See the difference?

Pros

The design of the bisht abaya makes it super modest and useful for wearing over fancy and glittery garments.  The style is also great for the summer since the loose fit allows air to flow through easily and is just as wearable in the winter when it can be worn over warm bulky clothing.

The cut of the abaya allows it to fit comfortably on expecting sisters, even in the later stages of pregnancy.  Better yet, it can still be worn after birth without looking like maternity wear.  All of our current bisht abayas at SunnahStyle.com also include a zipper opening at the neck to accomodate nursing mothers.

Sizing

Our favourite thing about the Bisht style is that it is naturally one-size-fits-all.  Since the style has no defined body or sleeves, it provides a loose and flowing fit for all body types, including plus and petite. 

When choosing your size for a bisht style abaya the only two measurements you need to look at are the length and the sleeve span since the width will fit regardless.  The sleeve span measurement is important since it affects the way the sleeves and shoulders fit.  To measure your sleeve span, take an abaya or top that you currently own and fits you well.  Lay the garment on the floor with the arms spread straight out in the shape of a ‘T’.  Then measure from the start of one sleeve, across the front of the garment to the start of the other sleeve.  Your sleeve span should be equal to or close to the actual sleeve span of the abaya for a similar fit.