10 popular traditional clothing in Arabian women’s fashion

Arabian women’s clothing mainly consists of non-transparent, loose garments covering all of their bodies except the hands and face including head coverings and veils.

The Pardah system, which is prevalent in this area, stipulates that women cover their body and face when outside as a symbol of modesty and the Islamic faith.

Arabian Women follow the purdah system out of their religious obligations as well as their personal choice. Many cherish their freedom to wear their choice of Arabian clothing. The Arabian fashion celebrates beauty, modesty, holiness, humility, and holiness at the same time.

Islamic clothing for women differs slightly between countries in the region but the basic concept is the same. Covering the body of women from males who are not relatives. A common question I have heard is ‘what is the difference between a hijab and a niqab? They sound so similar. Most of the Arabian names for the garments have subtle but distinct differences. 

1.Hijab

This is a headscarf worn over the head by Muslim women. Usually, they are worn around the head covering the neck and the chest as well. The face is usually not covered with the hijab. A square scarf is usually used as a Hijab wrapped around the head and neck. 

2. Abaya

Abaya is a tunic with a full-body covering, usually made in black fabric. This is usually worn over other clothing and is made of a lightweight fabric. Nowadays, fashion-conscious Muslim women choose embellished abayas in various colors.  

Abaya is known by different names in different countries of the region. In Qatar Al darraa, a version of Abaya is worn;  Balto is the  Yemenese version of abaya

3. Jilbab

This is a very long and loose over-garment that covers your full body except for the feet, hands, head, and face.

4. Burqa

The burqa is the most comprehensive headcover for Muslim women, with just a mesh screen over the eyes through which Muslim women can look out. The entire face and head are almost covered except for the partially opaque veil over the eyes. This clothing is more prevalent among the more conservative Muslim countries like Afghanistan.

5. Niqab

This is a covering for the face, including the mouth and nose, leaving only the eyes uncovered. Along with this Head is also covered with a headscarf when wearing the niqab. The niqab is mostly worn in black, grey, beige, and white colors.

6. Al amira

This is a head covering with two pieces. One is a close-fitting cap covering the head and then a tube scarf covering wrapped around the head and the neck.

7. Shayla

This is a long shawl ( rectangular) that is wrapped around the head and neck and shoulder. It is usually pinned to the shoulders or tucked around the face.

8. Khimar

Khimar is a long loose cape-like veil that covers the head, neck, and shoulders without covering the face. This is usually used as a prayer garment.

9. Chador

The chador is a full-body covering in one piece, a  long, loose robe that covers the head and body down to the feet. A scarf is at times worn under the chador. It is mostly seen in black and is commonly worn by women in Iran. 

10. Tunics

Salwar Kameez -This is a tunic and pants worn by Muslim women in some countries along with shayla for a modest covering of the body. 

Kaftans – This loose garment is also very popular among Arabian women. This tunic made in flowy drapey clothes is most suitable for the tropical climate of the area.