Imagine the pleasant evening twilight of an April night, the sun sinking behind a silhouette of minarets. Ramadan here, and visitors are approaching like a flurry of stars. The doors open for a celebration far more than a dinner. An Iftar is like an orchestra of tastes, laughing, and occasionally a chorus of tea spoons clinking against cups. Among all of them is the subdued draperies of amanis abayas—timeless clothing combining grace with refuge.

Selecting an abaya for such a celebration is like deciding which ideal spice level a curry calls for. You want enough flair to stand out, but with comfort like home. Imagine an abaya as the ideal cup of tea—maybe with a trace of cinnamon. Some people like a simple design, in which case elegance whispers itself. Others like vivid colors and elaborate embroidery, much as a magpie drawn to the glitter.

“A penny for your thoughts!” Wearing chiffon that resembles flowing clean rivers, a buddy asks. You say, “I think a dash of satin trim would play Shakespeare with that embroidery.” She whirls, her cloth floating like a light zephyr. It’s all about striking balance between the present inspiration and history.

You could have decisions similar to choosing a chocolate from a premium box—dozens of them! But not to worry; the joy is in the frequent flyer-like indulgence. One day, a modern black number that would cause Coco Chanel to fall asleep. The next day, a flash of red to challenge a sunset. Still, even the best silk should provide the cozy cuddle of a beloved quilt.

As you peruse choices, think about your audience—moms, uncles, best friends, maybe a long-lost cousin from Dubai. Match elegant organza with brush strokes of turquoise or mustard-yellow. The appropriate abaya asks you to dance, not only sits on the hanger and winks.

Still, don’t get it twisted—comfort does not mean dulling. An abaya can be a canvas used by an artist, either geometric symphonies or designs inspired by nature. A mermaid’s pleasure, some come painstakingly adorned with the beautiful shimmer of shellfish pearls.

Another friend texts “Is mustard ‘in’ this season?” adding a laughing emoji. “Spice up your life,” you email back, picturing elegant yellow abayas adorning the iftar scene—unique as saffron, rare as a four-leaf clover. Following trends is optional; that’s style—that which shines among companies.

So let that opulent linen be your shield and its style your banner as you wrap it around your shoulders and proceed to dinner. A little confidence, some humor, and you’ll be at the center of a wonderful symphony of family, food, and friendships. After all, without a little showstopper moment, what is an Iftar?