As I've mentioned previously, if one is female and in Saudi Arabia, she will wear an abaya (the long black robe like garment).  There are numerous shops in every mall and souk which sell abayas.  Abayas come in a variety of designs and styles.  And when one thinks about it, it is understandable for a women to have a number of abayas in different styles and designs for it is her "uniform" or "business suit" or what one will see when she makes that first impression on a person.  For example, if one is a professional businesswoman and just happens to work in a "mixed" environment (with both men and women), she would likely always wear the abaya.  Although she may have on an Armani suit underneath, few would ever realize it.  Therefore it is important that the abaya make the same statement of elegance and professionalism as one would with their "power suit."

I've been taking careful note of the differing styles and cuts of abayas.  As anyone who personally knows me has always realized, I like to make my own imprint and style.  As a result, I anticipate having a few abayas made from my own personal designs.  I can guarantee that at least one of them will sport a hood as well as a "happy kitty face" discreetly on the sleeve of an arm.