How to Choose a Thobe: Fit, Style and Care Guide
When choosing a thobe, three things matter most: the occasion, the style, and the fit. Short-sleeve thobes work for everyday wear and warm weather; Moroccan thobes with their embroidered trim are the go-to for Jumu'ah and Eid; long-sleeve styles and djellabas cover you through SA's colder months. Once you know your occasion and sleeve preference, sizing becomes straightforward - aim for the shoulder seam to land on the shoulder point and the hem to fall just above the ankle.
Which thobe style suits you?
Short-sleeve thobes
The most versatile option. Clean and cool for everyday wear, Jumu'ah, and warmer months. Easy to layer with a jacket when it gets cold. Available in classic white, black, navy and grey. Browse the Short Sleeve Thobes collection to see the full range.
Moroccan thobes
The most popular style in South Africa. Moroccan thobes feature a distinctive embroidered trim on the chest and cuffs, a slightly wider cut, and are available in both short and long-sleeve versions. They work equally well for Jumu'ah, Eid, and family occasions. Explore Moroccan Thobes including the Sabil and Qasr ranges.
Collared thobes
A Saudi-style thobe with a neat collar - clean, modern, and more formal in appearance. A good choice if you want a smart look for Eid or Jumu'ah without embroidery. See the Collared Thobes collection.
Long-sleeve and winter thobes
For SA winters, a long-sleeve Moroccan thobe is the practical choice. The Moroccan Long Sleeve Thobe Set - Andalus comes with a matching kufiya and is available in several colour combinations. If you want extra warmth, the Moroccan Djellabas collection offers a heavier winter layer that sits over your thobe.
Getting the fit right
- Shoulder: the shoulder seam should sit exactly on your shoulder point - not hanging off or pulling inward.
- Chest: room to move comfortably without being baggy. If it feels tight across the chest, size up.
- Length: the hem should fall just above the ankle - typically 1-3 cm off the ground.
- Arms (long-sleeve): cuffs should reach the wrist bone when your arm is at your side.
Not sure of your size? Use your chest measurement as the starting point and check the size guide on each product page before ordering.
Thobe care basics
- Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle in cold water.
- Wash whites separately to keep them bright.
- Hang to dry - avoid the tumble dryer where possible to protect the fabric and embroidery.
- Iron on a medium setting on the reverse side while slightly damp for a smooth finish.
- Store folded or hanging - avoid cramming into a tight space to prevent creasing.
Frequently asked questions
What size thobe should I get?
Measure your chest and match it against the size guide on the product page. If you fall between sizes, go up - it is easier to wear a slightly longer thobe than one that pulls across the chest. Sizing can vary slightly between styles, so always check the specific product chart.
What is the difference between a Moroccan thobe and a Saudi thobe?
A Moroccan thobe has embroidered trim on the chest and cuffs and a slightly wider, flowing cut - very popular across SA. A Saudi-style (collared) thobe has a button collar, a cleaner silhouette, and no embroidery. Both suit Jumu'ah and Eid; the choice comes down to personal style preference.
Can I wear a thobe in both summer and winter?
Yes. Short-sleeve thobes are ideal for warm weather. For winter, switch to a long-sleeve Moroccan thobe or layer a djellaba over your thobe. A djellaba adds warmth while keeping the modest look intact - no need for a separate cold-weather wardrobe.
How do I keep a white thobe bright after washing?
Wash whites separately in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach unless the care label permits it. Dry in shade rather than direct sunlight, which can yellow white fabric over time. A small amount of white vinegar in the rinse cycle helps maintain brightness without damaging the fabric.
Where can I buy affordable thobes in South Africa?
Imaarah stocks a range of men's thobes online - short-sleeve, Moroccan, collared, and long-sleeve - with delivery across South Africa. Prices start from R599. Browse the full Men's Thobes collection on imaarah.com.
Ready to find your fit?
Explore the full range of styles, colours and sizes in the Men's Thobes collection - sorted for Jumu'ah and Eid, at an affordable price.
