Buying Islamic clothing in Belgium has become much simpler in recent years. But more choice also brings more confusion: which fabric, which cut, and where to buy without nasty surprises? This guide sets it all out.
The main garments
The abaya
A long, loose overgarment with long sleeves. The most versatile piece in the wardrobe: worn over a simple base outfit, your look is instantly complete. The cut ranges from straight and understated to flared and festive.
The hijab
The scarf itself. Fabric and length determine how it falls and how much coverage you get. Jersey is the easiest for beginners; chiffon and Medina silk are more elegant but require more technique.
The jilbab and the khimar
The jilbab is a loose overgarment that covers the head and body in a single ensemble. The khimar is a long cape that falls over the hips or knees. Both are practical: slip on one piece and you are ready.
Complete sets
Increasingly popular, and rightly so. The proportions are already matched, so you no longer have to puzzle it out. Our sets are built for this.
Fabrics: what to really watch for
- Nidha — firm, opaque, barely creases. The classic choice for abayas.
- Cupro — plant-based, breathable, falls like silk. Ideal for warm days and long wear.
- Linen and linen blends — cool and natural, with a beautiful matte look.
- Jersey — soft and supple, stays in place well. The best start for scarves.
- Chiffon and organza — light and festive, but usually need an underlayer.
Avoid heavy shiny polyester for everyday: it breathes badly and quickly looks cheap in daylight.
Where to buy in Belgium?
Physical shops in Brussels and Antwerp let you try on and feel the fabric — a real advantage for a first purchase. The offer depends entirely on the stock of the moment, though.
Large marketplaces are cheap and fast, but the product information is often vague. You buy a photo, not a fabric.
Webshops outside the EU seem advantageous until the bill comes: VAT, customs fees and the carrier's handling fees are added. Count on three to six weeks' delivery and costly returns.
European brands selling direct ship from the EU, with no customs, with clear compositions and the European right of withdrawal.
Your rights as a buyer in Belgium
For an online purchase from a seller within the European Union, you have 14 days to change your mind, with no reason required. In addition, the two-year legal guarantee of conformity applies. Outside the EU, this protection and its practical enforcement are far less straightforward.
Choosing the right size
Never look only at S/M/L. For an abaya, always check:
- The total length — measured from the shoulder. Too short, it instantly loses its elegance.
- The shoulder width — decisive for the fall of the sleeves.
- The sleeve width — important for comfort and at the table.
Hesitating between two sizes? For loose cuts, choose the smaller; for straight cuts, the larger.
Care: so it lasts for years
Wash at 30 °C on a delicate programme and use a net bag for delicate fabrics. No tumble dryer: hang the garment up while damp, most creases disappear on their own. Iron inside out at low temperature or use steam.
Store scarves rolled rather than folded — that prevents permanent fold lines.
Building a wardrobe with few pieces
You need less than you think. A workable base:
- Two neutral abayas (one everyday, one dressier)
- One complete set for busy days
- Four to six scarves in colours that combine with each other
- One festive piece for special occasions
Choose three neutral tones that go together — taupe, cocoa, ink blue — and everything becomes combinable.
In conclusion
Buy where the fabric is named, the measurements stated and returns possible. These three signals set a serious seller apart from a shop window.
Discover our abayas, hijabs and latest collection — refined fabrics, understated lines, shipped from Belgium.