**What is an abaya?** An abaya (Arabic for "toga" or "cloak") is an over-garment, often loose and light, worn from the shoulders to the feet. It is similar to the djellaba worn in North Africa or the qamis worn in West Africa. Although it is a women's garment, it can also be worn by men, albeit with a different cut. Though largely neutral in color, the abaya has also developed into fashion apparel with brighter hues.