Most abayas today are polyester. They look fine online but feel hot, slippery, or suffocating in real life. We built Zailarah on natural fabrics that breathe, soften, and feel good all day. This guide explains what we use and how to care for it.
What it is: A natural fiber from flax with a visible weave and airy feel.
Why we use it: Linen keeps you cool when polyester would trap heat. It breathes, holds a clean structure, and gets softer every time you wash it.
Best for: Hot days, long travel, and easy layering without heaviness.
Care: Wash gently in cold water, reshape, and hang to dry. Expect it to soften beautifully over time.
What it is: A soft and versatile natural fiber grown from the cotton plant.
Why we use it: Cotton is honest comfort. It is breathable, dependable, and easy to wear from morning to night without irritation.
Best for: Everyday outfits, year round. Works for both casual and more refined looks.
Care: Wash cold, tumble on low or air dry. A warm iron will bring it back to shape if needed.
What it is: A natural filament spun from silkworm cocoons with a smooth, fluid drape.
Why we use it: Silk feels like quiet luxury. It carries a natural sheen that polyester can only copy and gives modest pieces a refined flow.
Best for: Occasions and layers where you want elegance with comfort.
Care: Dry clean for best results. If hand washing, use cold water and silk-safe soap. Hang to dry.
What it is: A semi-natural fiber made from wood pulp. It is man-made but plant based, which gives it a lighter, cooler feel than synthetics.
Why we use it: Rayon adds softness and flow where pure linen or cotton can feel stiff. It helps certain blends drape with ease and stay cooler on the skin, without the heaviness of polyester.
Best for: Fluid designs, breathable hijabs, and abayas that need movement and comfort in heat.
Care: Wash cold on delicate and hang to dry. Handle gently as rayon can weaken when wet.
What they are: Mixes of linen, cotton, or silk. At times we add a small performance fiber when it clearly improves comfort or care.
Why we use them: To give you softness, easier care, or longer durability while keeping the natural feel against the skin.
Best for: Low-maintenance pieces that still carry the clean and premium feel of natural fabric.
Care: Always follow the garment label. When unsure, treat it like the most delicate fiber in the mix.
Whatever fabric you choose, Zailarah is built on one promise: no polyester, no shortcuts, just natural comfort designed for real life.