You’re about to buy an abaya online and you’re not sure about sizing. Let me walk you through it so you pick the right size the first time and avoid a costly return.
How abaya sizing works in the UK
Abaya sizes in the UK are based on your height instead of your dress size, so you match your shoulder‑to‑ankle measurement to numbers like 52, 54 or 56 that work across UK dress sizes because abayas are designed to fit loosely.
Most brands like ZAISHA UK stick to length numbers rather than S, M or L. A size 54 usually fits someone around 5′4″, while size 56 fits someone around 5′6″. That loose cut means it can fit a range of body shapes without being tight.
Some brands add bust and hip measurements to their charts. That’s helpful if you want a tailored fit or a slimmer abaya style, but length still matters most.
How to measure yourself correctly
Measure from your shoulder to your ankle with a soft tape, then check your shoulder width and bust if the brand shows those in its chart.
Stand straight against a wall while someone helps you. Start at the top of your shoulder and measure down to just above your ankle so the abaya doesn’t drag on the ground. Write that number down.
Measure your shoulders from edge to edge. Wrap the tape around your bust if the abaya style is slimmer or has darts. These simple steps give you all the info you need to order confidently.
Using a size chart to pick your size
Match your height measurement to the brand’s size chart and go up a size if you often wear heels to make sure the hem falls where you want it.
Look at the size chart on the page where you’re buying. Find your height in the left column and see which size number it pairs with. If you’re between two heights, choose the larger size for more coverage.
Add two inches to your measurement if you wear heels or platforms. A longer size keeps the hem near your ankle even when you’re taller in shoes. If you’re unsure, most brands let you ask them directly with your measurements.
Common mistakes to avoid
Don’t rely on your UK dress size, skip heel adjustments, or use a chart from another brand because these mistakes lead to the wrong size.
A UK 10 or 12 dress doesn’t mean you need a medium abaya. Sizing by dress size can leave the hem too high or too long. Shoes make a difference too. Flat shoes might need a 52, but heels might need a 54 or 56.
Some buyers trust a generic chart they saw before, but each brand has its own cuts. A quick check on the brand chart avoids all that guesswork.
Quick examples to guide you
What if I’m 5′4″ and wear flats?
The right size for 5′4″ in flats is usually a size 54, which keeps the hem near the ankle and keeps the modest fit that abayas are known for.
If you like a slightly longer look, step up to a 56, but be ready for it to brush the ground. For a standard length, 54 is your safe bet.
What if I’m 5′2″ but wear heels daily?
The best size for 5′2″ with heels is often a size 54, which gives enough length to cover the shoes while staying easy to walk in.
You might think 52 works because of your height, but heels change everything. That extra length avoids awkward gaps and keeps the fabric flowing as you walk.
FAQ
Is size 54 a medium?
Size 54 isn’t a medium or large, it’s a length measurement that usually suits someone around 5′4″ regardless of dress size.
It doesn’t say anything about the bust or waist fit. It simply shows how far the abaya drops from your shoulders to your ankles.
Do all brands size the same?
No, brands use different charts, so you always need to check the exact chart from the store you’re buying from.
A size 54 from one shop might feel slightly shorter or longer than another because of their patterns and cuts.
Should I size up if I like loose fits?
Yes, you can size up if you prefer a longer and looser abaya, but make sure the shoulders still sit neatly to keep the look clean.
Going up one size adds more drape and room for layering, but if the shoulders slide off, you’ve gone too far.
Final thoughts
Getting your abaya size right is simple when you know what to do. Measure your height, check your shoulder width, and follow the chart on the product page. Adjust for heels if you need to. That’s all it takes to get an abaya that fits perfectly.
Keep those measurements saved on your phone or notepad. The next time you shop, you’ll know your exact size and you’ll pick with confidence every time.