Niqab fashion has moved a long way from one plain black veil. Today women choose between short nose pieces, long naqabs, two-tone reversible styles and veils with a touch of calligraphy or a small charm, all while keeping the modesty that matters to them.
This guide explains the main niqab styles, how to pair them with hijabs and abayas, which lengths and fabrics suit Indian weather, and what each style costs.
In this guide
What is a niqab?
A niqab, called a naqab in India, is a face veil worn with a hijab that leaves the eyes visible. Women wear it by personal choice, for faith, family tradition or comfort. The Wikipedia article on the niqab explains how styles differ around the world. For the meaning behind the veil, see our niqab hijab guide.
- Nose piece: a short veil that sits on the bridge of the nose.
- Long naqab: falls over the neckline of the abaya.
- Layered niqab: two or more layers for extra coverage.
- Tie-back or elastic: two common ways to fasten it.
Niqab fashion styles compared
| Style | Length | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-sheet nose piece | 9 × 11–13 in | Light, breathable | Daily wear, summer |
| Short nose piece with charm | Short | Neat, a little detail | Outings, college |
| Reversible two-tone | Short | Two looks in one | Matching outfits |
| Long abaya naqab | 10–12 in | Fuller, traditional | Functions, burqa look |
| Calligraphy naqab | 11–13 in | Meaningful detail | Eid, gifting |
| Premium nose piece | 8 in | Soft, many colours | Matching coloured hijabs |
All of these styles are in our naqab collection, priced from ₹99 to ₹199.
Arabian niqab style and modern niqab fashion
The Arabian niqab style is usually black, long and plain, worn with a long black head scarf and abaya. It is the look behind the Saudi burqa.
Modern niqab fashion adds small personal touches: a colour matched to the hijab, a reversible two-tone veil, a tiny gold-tone charm or a word in calligraphy. Our guide to the Saudi burqa shows the traditional outfit in full.
How to wear a niqab with a hijab
- Put on an inner cap and tuck in your hair.
- Wrap your hijab as usual and pin it under the chin.
- Place the niqab across the bridge of the nose.
- Tie or fasten it at the back of the head, under or over the hijab.
- Adjust the edges so they sit evenly on both sides.
New to wearing a hijab? Our step-by-step guide on how to wear hijab covers the basics before you add a face veil.
Stylish niqab ideas for different occasions
- Everyday: a single-sheet nose piece in black with a cotton hijab.
- College and work: a short nose piece with a small charm and a matte hijab.
- Functions: a long naqab over an embroidered abaya.
- Eid: a calligraphy naqab with a black and gold outfit.
- Colour matching: a coloured nose piece that matches your hijab.
Whatever the occasion, keep the rest of the outfit simple when the veil has a detail. One focal point, such as calligraphy or a charm, looks more elegant than several competing ones.

Choosing fabric and length for Indian weather
Comfort matters most for a veil you may wear for hours. Our hijab face cover guide compares options for glasses, commuting and summer.
- Summer: a single-layer nose piece is the coolest choice.
- Functions: a longer naqab looks fuller and more formal.
- Fastening: tie-backs let you control the fit; check that ties are long enough.
- Care: hand wash in cold water and dry in the shade to keep black fabrics deep.
Ladies niqab prices in India usually start around ₹100 for simple nose pieces, with more detailed styles costing a little more.
Gifting a niqab
A naqab is a thoughtful, affordable gift for Eid, Ramadan or a friend who has recently started wearing one. Small details make it personal.
- Calligraphy: a meaningful word in gold Arabic script.
- Colour: a shade that matches her favourite hijab.
- Practicality: a light single-sheet style for everyday comfort.
Pair the naqab with a soft hijab or an inner cap for a complete niqab fashion gift set.
Niqab fashion at Modesty EStore
Every naqab below is in stock, measured and photographed by us. Delivery is a flat ₹45 anywhere in India and free on orders of ₹999 or more, and you can pay online with PhonePe or choose cash on delivery.
Naqabs in stock
- Nose Piece – Single Sheet – 9 × 11–13 in, ₹99
- Short Nose Piece Naqab – gold-tone charm, ₹149
- Reversible Short Nose Piece Niqab – blue and black, ₹149
- Abaya Naqab – long, 10–12 in, ₹149
- MashAllah Calligraphy Naqab – 11–13 in, ₹149
- Premium Nose Piece Naqab – 19 colours, ₹199
Niqab fashion FAQ
What is the difference between a niqab and a naqab?
They are the same garment. Naqab is the word most used in India for the niqab, a face veil worn with a hijab that leaves the eyes visible.
Which niqab style is best for daily wear?
A single-sheet nose piece is the lightest and most breathable everyday choice.
What is the Arabian niqab style?
A long, plain black niqab worn with a long head scarf and abaya, as in the traditional Saudi look.
How do I keep a niqab in place?
Wear an inner cap, pin your hijab first, then tie the niqab firmly at the back of the head.
Can a niqab be colourful?
Yes. Many women match a coloured nose piece to their hijab; our premium nose piece comes in 19 colours.
How much does a ladies niqab cost?
Our naqabs cost from ₹99 to ₹199. Delivery is ₹45, or free on orders of ₹999 or more.
Finding your niqab style
Niqab fashion today is about choice: short or long, plain or with one meaningful detail, black or matched to your hijab. Pick the length that suits your day, fasten it securely over an inner cap, and let small details reflect your style.
Explore the naqabs above to find the one that feels right for you.
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