to the folks offended at the abaya bit; there's no need to be. the bashers will bash regardless but her question doesn't provoke it..I personally and most men prefer curvy filled out women..skinny makes women look just like us men lol..and curvy isn't the same as overweight..big difference..as for abayas, I do feel it can help (if only a bit) women who have body image/self esteem issues..in our judgmental society where there's more pressure than ever on women to look good; I feel the abaya can be a protective veil for those who won't have any of the judging and critiquing. Just my humble opinion though:-)