Nida vs crepe vs jersey: which abaya fabric to choose
Most abayas in Pakistan are made from a handful of fabrics. They can look alike in photos but feel very different to wear. Here's what each one is like, so you can choose for the season and the occasion.
Updated 4 November 2026
Nida
Nida is the most popular abaya fabric in Pakistan and the Gulf. It's light, soft and matte, and it flows when you walk. It's comfortable in summer and doesn't crease much, which makes it a good everyday choice. Lighter colours in thin nida can be slightly see-through in strong light, so check before wearing it without a layer underneath.
Korean nida is a heavier, smoother version. It drapes more and feels more premium, and it's less see-through, but it's a little warmer.
Crepe
Crepe has a fine, grainy texture and a heavier drape. It holds its shape better than nida, so it suits structured and formal designs, open front styles and embroidered abayas for Eid and weddings. It's fully opaque and resists creasing, but it's warmer, so it's better for winter and evening wear.
Jersey
Jersey is a soft knit with some stretch. It's very comfortable and warm, which makes it good for winter and travel, and for hijabs that stay in place without pins. It can cling more than woven fabrics, so jersey abayas are usually cut extra loose.
Quick comparison
- Lightest and coolest: nida.
- Best drape for occasions: crepe or Korean nida.
- Warmest and stretchiest: jersey.
- Least creasing for travel: crepe, then nida.
- Most opaque: crepe and Korean nida.
Washing and care
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, or by hand, inside out.
- Wash dark colours separately the first few times.
- Don't wring: hang to dry in the shade so colours don't fade.
- Iron on low heat, inside out, especially over embroidery.
Questions
Which abaya fabric is best for summer in Pakistan?
Nida is the coolest and lightest. Choose a darker colour or wear a slip underneath if you're worried about it being see-through.
Is crepe or nida better for Eid?
Crepe and Korean nida have a richer drape and hold embroidery well, so they're the usual choice for Eid and weddings.
Does nida fabric shrink?
Nida generally doesn't shrink much if washed cold and dried in the shade. Avoid hot water and tumble drying.
Which fabric is each Aan Abayas design made in?
Ask us on WhatsApp and we'll tell you the fabric of any design before you order.