hijabs

Hijab is a term used in Islam that refers to modest dress worn by some Muslim women. The word hijab comes from Arabic and broadly means barrier or screen. In practice, hijab commonly denotes a headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and sometimes shoulders while leaving the face visible; in other contexts it can refer to modest clothing as a whole. Variants of head coverings associated with hijab include styles such as the khimar, which covers the hair and shoulders, the al-amira, a two-piece cap and wrap, and the shayla, a long scarf wrapped around the head and neck. Distinctions are sometimes drawn between hijab, niqab (face veil), and burqa (full-body garment), though usage varies by community.

Across cultures, hijab practices vary widely based on personal conviction, cultural norms, and local laws. Some Muslim women wear the hijab as a religious obligation; others view it as a cultural tradition or personal choice. In some places, laws or public policies regulate whether hijab can be worn in schools, government settings, or public spaces, while elsewhere there are protections for freedom of dress and religious expression. Debates about hijab often intersect with broader discussions of gender, secularism, and minority rights.

Today, hijab is also a visible element of fashion and identity for many women, with diverse styles that mix traditional coverings with contemporary clothing. The phenomenon reflects a range of beliefs and experiences, underscoring that hijab practice is not monolithic and varies among individuals and communities.