Understanding The Hijab

The hijab has always been a source of controversy in many regions of the world. This is because there are some who think that it is a symbol of submission while others think that it is a symbol of cultural or even re4ligious identity. There are still those that think that the hijab serves as a symbol of female oppression. However, note that this Islamic fashion headwear has evolved to become a trendy style that is not only limited to Muslim females. As such, there is a need to understand the different styles of hijab. Here is a quick guide. Types of Islamic Headwear • Hijab- This is the most common type that is worn by Muslim women globally. It is simply a headscarf which adequately covers the neck and neck. However, the face is left clear. Many other cultures are slowly borrowing the use of the hijab as fashion as they come in different sizes and shapes. For instance, the hijab chic is a trending term that refers to the modern Islamic female who combines hijab and other trendy types of clothing. Besides, many women are slowly ditching head scarfs for colorful hijabs. • Niqab- This is an Islamic fashion that has a combination of a head covering and a scarf. These cover a woman’s head and only leaves the eyes. The Niqab also flows to the back of the head down the back. It may also flow down the chest. This is the most used type of headwear in the Arabian nations. Besides, most Muslim women in other parts of the world are also choosing it as their ideal headwear. • Burqa- Most people confuse burqa and Niqab and use them interchangeably to mean the same thing. However, a difference exists in that while a Niqab will only cover the head and leave the eyes, the burqa covers the whole body. It is considered to be one of the most discrete Islamic fashions of all time. Unlike the Niqab, the burqa will cover even the eyes with a mesh. • Chador- This is an outer garment which covers the whole body. Chadors will typically come in black. They are also stereotyped with females in the country of Iran. A unique thing about this type of clothing is that it does not come with buttons at the front. Women, therefore, have to hold them close to themselves. However, it can be combined with other types of clothes to create a good blend. • Abaya and al-Shamira- These are loosely fitted garments and cover the shape of women. Most combine them with hijabs or Niqabs. On the other hand, the al-Shamira is a two-piece veil that comes with a close-fitting cap. The cap is made from polyester or cotton and provides comfort to the women’s heads. It also has an accompanying tube-like scarf that sits perfectly on the shoulders. • Kerudung and Turban- This is a hijab style that is popular with women in the countries of Indonesia and the Philippines. This is similar to the chador as it covers from head to toe and only leaves the face. The turban, on the other hand, is common with Muslim ladies in the continent of Africa. It consists of a lifted hijab that is wrapped around the head. It does not cover the neck. It is preferred due to the high temperatures in regions such as Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia. From the above, it is clear that Islamic headwear can come in different styles. Do not shy off from trying any of the above. However, understand how to dress in your preferred style so that you do not end up embarrassing yourself.