How to Define Your Waist in an Abaya Without a Belt

I've lost count of the belts I've bought to wear over an abaya. Some slip, some dig in by lunchtime, and most make a loose shape look cinched as an afterthought. So when I noticed how many of this season's new pieces build the waist into the cut, I paid attention. Want to define your waist in an abaya without adding a belt? Here are the five ways I'm seeing it done well, and the piece I'd pick for each.

Why a built-in waist beats a belt

A belt only works at one point. It pulls the fabric in wherever you fasten it, and everything above and below bunches around it. When the waist is part of the construction, through seams, tabs or buttons, the shape is planned from shoulder to hem. The fabric falls where it should, you can sit through a long meeting, and nothing shifts when you get in and out of the car.

Buttoned tabs: the neatest way to define your waist

The Rummana Sheer Ruffle Trim Abaya with Buttoned Waist Tabs has a tailored upper body and small buttoned tabs that bring the waist in before the skirt opens into an A-line. The asymmetric front is framed with a fine sheer pleated trim, repeated at the neckline and cuffs. Structured shoulders balance the fuller skirt. In off white, it's what I'd wear to a daytime gathering.

Featured Product: The Rummana Sheer Ruffle Trim Abaya with Buttoned Waist Tabs

Covered side buttons for a wrap effect

The Wajida Shawl Collar Abaya with Buttoned Waist fastens with covered buttons at the side, so the front stays clean. The shawl collar draws a long line down to the waist, and panel seams shape the bodice before a softly flared skirt. You get the look of a wrap without retying anything every time you stand up. The green is the shade I'd go for.

Featured Product: The Wajida Shawl Collar Abaya with Buttoned Waist

A side tie you can adjust through the day

The Ruban Tie-Waist Abaya with Sheer Flared Cuffs is the one for days when you want options. An asymmetric overlay draws into a side tie finished with beaded tassel ends, so you decide how defined the waist looks. I'd tie it closer for dinner and looser for a long drive. Sheer flared cuffs keep the sleeves light, and the round neckline stays simple.

Featured Product: The Ruban Tie-Waist Abaya with Sheer Flared Cuffs

Covered buttons right at the waist

If you want the most defined shape of the five, it's The Asima Asymmetric Button Abaya with Sheer Cuffs. A wrap-style V-neckline leads into an asymmetric front, and fabric-covered buttons mark the waist exactly where the fitted bodice meets the A-line skirt. Sheer layered cuffs finish it. In black it's crisp enough for work and easy to dress up after.

Featured Product: The Asima Asymmetric Button Abaya with Sheer Cuffs

Seams that do the shaping for you

The Dima Tailored Abaya with Sheer Split Cuffs is the quietest version. There are no tabs or ties at the waist, just sculpted seams that shape the bodice before a flared skirt. Covered buttons run down the front and sit at the cuffs, where sheer split panels open up. This is the one I'd suggest if you're not sure a defined waist is for you.

Featured Product: The Dima Tailored Abaya with Sheer Split Cuffs

How I'd choose between them

For a clear, fitted waist, go for the Asima or the Rummana. For flexibility, the Ruban's tie lets you change your mind during the day. For a wrap look with no fuss, the Wajida. And for shape you barely notice, the Dima. All five come in the same six colors, so pick the cut first and the shade second.

Related reading

• How to Choose the Perfect Abaya for Your Body Type
• Flowy vs. Structured: Which Summer Abaya Works for You?
• Burgundy Abayas And The Dark Colors That Work Like Black

A belt will always have its place, but it shouldn't be the only way to get shape into an abaya. These pieces do the work in the cut, so you can get dressed and stop adjusting. For more everyday shapes to wear right now, browse the Classic Abayas Collection.