Smart Abaya Revolutionizes Safety and Comfort in Fashion

Lulwa Salem, a graduate of the Delmon Star program run by the Bahrain Fashion Incubator (BFI), has designed a groundbreaking smart Abaya that merges tradition with cutting-edge technology. This innovative garment is tailored to protect women from the harsh effects of high heat and alert them to potential health risks during physical activities such as exercising or hiking.

The smart Abaya utilizes a special fabric that reduces the external temperature by approximately ten degrees, offering greater comfort and reducing the risk of dehydration. Dehydration can disrupt the body’s vital functions, especially in high temperatures, making this feature particularly valuable.

In addition to temperature regulation, Lulwa has integrated a fitness tracker into the Abaya, allowing wearers to monitor their heart rate and track daily activities such as steps taken and calories burned. This wearable technology enhances the functionality of the Abaya, making it a versatile piece of clothing suitable for active women.

To improve safety during nighttime activities, Lulwa incorporated reflective fabric into the Abaya’s design, inspired by Bahrain’s rich textile heritage, particularly the “Sado” patterns reflected in the triangular motifs on the sides. The fabric is also designed to prevent sticking to the body when sweating, ensuring comfort in hot climates.

Looking ahead, Lulwa plans to further develop the Abaya by incorporating antibacterial fabric as an environmentally friendly alternative. This aligns with the global trend towards sustainability and Bahrain’s recent focus on eco-friendly practices. The use of antibacterial fabric not only enhances hygiene but also reduces the need for frequent washing, thereby conserving water.

Innovating Abayas for Heat

“As a Khaliji woman, I love wearing Abaya all the time, and I often feel the need to develop it to suit the region’s hot climate,” Lulwa explained. “The Abaya can feel uncomfortable for women who like to walk outdoors or work in environments exposed to the sun or heat. I envision extending this idea to serve different individuals in society, including men and children, using the same safety features in their garments. My approach in all my designs will always be centered around the use of modern technology in line with the global direction of the fashion industry.”

Lulwa’s journey in fashion design began 15 years ago when she started sketching designs for clothes that she couldn’t find in the market. After obtaining a Diploma in Fashion Design, she joined the Delmon Star program, where she gained comprehensive experience in fashion design and entrepreneurship. The idea for the smart Abaya was sparked during a Fabric Technology workshop in the early stages of the Dilmun Star program. With guidance from Mrs. Jalila Aarab, founder and CEO of the Bahrain Fashion Incubator, Lulwa refined her concept and decided to specialize in designing technologically advanced clothing that addresses health and safety challenges faced by all segments of society.

Jalila Aarab expressed her pride in Lulwa’s achievements, stating, “We are very proud of Lulwa for creating a unique piece that represents the beginning of a new era in the fashion field. BFI is one of the first organizations in the Middle East and North Africa to provide the right environment and support that encourages fashion startups to use technology. We are working on creating a thriving ecological system for the fashion industry, and we are keen on providing training and technical support to all promising fashion designers through the programs and services we offer in the incubator.”