5 Types of Muslim Headwear for Women

The Quran calls for both Muslim men and women to “cover and be modest”. It doesn’t mean that Islam restricts people to dress, but they believe that a person should not expose his/her body parts openly. Besides looking modest, according to Islamic culture, both Muslim men and women should behave modestly too.

Therefore, Islam has introduced headscarf as part of decency and modesty in the interaction between opposite sex. There are so many types of headscarves available in the market, but not all headscarves are burkas. Here are five different types of headscarves for Muslim women. Take a look:

Hijab

This general term comes from the Arabic for veil which most commonly refers to a headscarf that covers the hair, neck and chest, but not the face. These scarves come in various different styles and colors. However the most common is a square headwear used by a majority of Muslim women across the globe.

Niqab

Niqab refers to a veil covering the head and face that leaves the area around the eyes clear. This can also be worn with a separate eye veil and is usually worn with a loose black garment that covers the entire body from head to toe.

Burka

This is oldest types of headscarf used by Muslim women that covers the entire body and face, with a mesh window or grille across the eyes of a woman to look out of. This headscarf is the most concealing of all Islamic veils.

Chador

It is a long, full-length cloak worn by many Iranian women. It covers the hair, neck and shoulders completely, but leaves the face clear. This cape-like veil is typically held closed at the front with the wearer’s hands. Also, it is often accompanied by a smaller headscarf underneath.

Dupatta or Shayla

It is a long scarf which is usually worn loosely across the head, shoulder and chest. It can be easily tucked around the neck and shoulders. Also, you can stylishly pair it with matching garments.

All these are different type of Muslim headwear. Hijab is the most common among them. You can find an array of stylish hijab online which are available in different, sizes, patterns and colors. For your information, hijab is not a sign of oppression and nor does it restrict women from acquiring knowledge or interacting with outsiders. It is just a sign of respect that a Muslim woman must adorn. Nowadays, women from all cultures like to embrace a hijab to look respectful and modest, but stylish at the same time.