Saudi fashion designer Hania al-Braikan presents an abaya selling for about $1500 at a bridal exhibition in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Just a few years ago, Gulf Arab women usually only felt comfortable showing off their fashion sense at ladies-only parties or family gatherings. In public, at least in their home countries, the standard all-black abaya — a simple floor-length covering and accompanying head scarf — was the only culturally accepted option. But now a new generation of abaya designers are giving the traditional garment a twist with choices of fabric, designs and even some expensive bling to allow Gulf women a host of style options.
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