Your sheila is the finishing touch that completes any abaya look — and there are so many ways to wear it. Mastering sheila styling lets you refresh the same abaya for different moods and occasions. In this guide, we share 7 elegant ways to wear your abaya scarf, plus tips on fabric and finishing touches.

At Infinite Vibes, every abaya comes with a free matching sheila in the same colour, so you can experiment with all of these styles straight away.

What Is a Sheila?

A sheila is the long, rectangular scarf worn with an abaya to cover the hair and shoulders. It is lightweight, versatile, and can be draped, wrapped, or pinned in countless elegant ways.

7 Ways to Style Your Sheila

1. The Classic Drape

Drape the sheila evenly over your head with both ends falling down your back or shoulders. Effortless, elegant, and perfect for any occasion.

2. The Wrapped Look

Wrap one end around your neck and over the opposite shoulder for a secure, polished style that stays put on busy days.

3. The Front Twist

Cross both ends under your chin and let them fall in front for a soft, framing effect that flatters the face.

4. The One-Shoulder

Sweep both ends over one shoulder for a chic, asymmetric look that feels modern and elegant.

5. The Turban Style

Wrap the sheila fully around the head, turban-style, for a striking, fashion-forward statement — ideal for events.

6. The Loose Shawl

Wear the sheila loosely around the shoulders over a closed abaya for a relaxed, graceful daytime look.

7. The Pinned Hijab Style

Secure the sheila neatly with pins for full coverage and an elegant, structured finish that lasts all day.

Make styling easier

Lightweight, soft fabrics drape more easily and hold shape better, making every style simpler to achieve.

Choosing the Right Sheila Fabric

Soft, breathable fabrics like modal and chiffon drape beautifully and stay comfortable in the UAE heat. Heavier fabrics hold structured styles like the turban better. Learn more in our Ultimate Abaya Fabric Guide.

Sheila Styling Tips

Coordinate your sheila with your outfit using your free matching sheila, or play with a coloured abaya for contrast — see our 2026 abaya colour guide for inspiration.

Style tip

Keep a few no-slip pins and an under-cap on hand for effortless, all-day sheila styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sheila?

A sheila is the long rectangular scarf worn with an abaya to cover the hair and shoulders. It can be draped, wrapped, or pinned in many elegant ways.

How do you style a sheila?

Popular styles include the classic drape, the wrapped look, the front twist, the one-shoulder, the turban style, the loose shawl, and the pinned hijab style.

What is the best fabric for a sheila?

Soft, breathable fabrics like modal and chiffon drape beautifully and stay comfortable, while heavier fabrics hold structured styles better.

Do Infinite Vibes abayas include a sheila?

Yes — every abaya comes with a free matching sheila in the same colour, so you can try every styling option right away.

Ready to restyle your look? Explore our abaya with sheila collection, with free UAE delivery and pay-later options at checkout.