Folkwear pattern 104 Egyptian Shirt is a shortened version of the traditional Egyptian galabia, or robe. This loose-fitting style has side panels and slit pockets and is wonderfully comfortable. The yoke can be turned to the inside, or to the outside for interesting contrast.  Traditinally, the galabia was often made in darker colors for a more formal garment.  It was then worn over a white band-collared undergarment for contrast. Instructions are included in our pattern for knotted buttons, decorative cording, soutache appliqué, and lengthening the shirt to make the galabia.

Suggested fabrics: Crisp or soft fabrics such as cottons, muslin, lightweight denim, broadcloth. For applique pieces, use 100% cotton. 

PLEASE NOTE: These suggested fabrics are based on fabrics that are in stock at the time the blog post is written, and may go out of stock from store at some point.  If link is invalid for specific product, look for a similar fabric you can substitute.

Broadcloth can be used as the primary fabric for this garment and/or for applique, and would be perfect for either.  Michael Levine carries two collections of 100% cotton broadcloth at the moment. I love this color!

Organic Cotton Plus has a wonderful organic cotton muslin.  This navy blue caught my eye - perfect for a more formal shirt. 

For a less traditional version, you could choose to use a fabric with a print.  This Nani Iro double gauze from Stonemountain and Daughter fabrics would make a nice looking top - perfect and breezy for summer.  Make the yoke facing from a contrasting fabric and you have a unique and beautiful shirt!  

Stonemountain also has a variety of solid gauze in stock as well. This one has a nice crinkled texture, and would make an elegant shirt entirely from this fabric.  I'm a fan of textured fabrics (seeing as how I don't love ironing)!