Muslim women who observe dress codes are known for their modesty principles. However, since Muslims live in various countries with different cultures, the outfits are more than just wrapping a headscarf around. There are many types of Muslim women’s clothing, with different styles and ranges of coverage.

Knowing what Muslim ladies wear is essential if you are interested in fashion businesses, like importing or stock lot garments. Some outfits are more popular in certain countries than others, so make sure you understand the differences before selling outfits.

Here are 10 types of clothing many Muslim women around the world wear.

1. Hijab

Hijab is perhaps the most recognizable word to describe Muslim women’s head covering. Generally, it is used to describe a piece of rectangular fabric wrapped in specific ways around the head. 

Are there different types of hijabs? Yes, their simple basic designs make hijabs easy to modify. You will find myriads of styles, from simple to fancy, patterned to embroidered, and even the ones modified to be converted as praying outfits.

Hijabs are often confused with niqab and burqa, but they are different. Hijab refers to the piece of fabric around the head, while the niqab and burqa cover almost or all of the head and body.

Why are fashion trends important? It’s because hijabs, like other outfit types, have trends that come and go (or stay). If you are interested in hijab shopping or business, you must know what most women like nowadays when it comes to hijab.

2. Abaya

Abaya is a cloak-type dress used to cover outfits when going out. You can see it in Arab Gulf countries. Abaya is usually black, but there are models with embroideries and splashes of colors around the hems. Abaya can be worn right under the neck or reaching the top of the head. This types of muslim women’s clothing usually combined with a veil or headscarf.

3. Khimar

The term “khimar” is used in two ways. One refers to a general head covering Muslim women’s wear. The other is often used to describe a long, draping headscarf that covers the chest and even arms.

4. Chador

Chador is a traditional cloak-type dress worn by many women in Iran. Unlike the abaya, it is often not fastened in the front, so women combine them with shirts, tunics, or dresses. Chador is usually worn with a long headscarf but without a face veil.

5. Salwar Kameez

Salwar kameez is a type of Muslim women’s clothing that can also be viewed as a traditional outfit. It consists of two pieces: a long, flowy tunic and a pair of loose trousers. The Salwar kameez is usually worn by Punjabi women in India and Pakistan.

Salwar Kameez comes in various types, colors, and models. Some are simple, everyday wear, while others are more luxurious and elaborate, perfect for events. Many women nowadays love wearing them to showcase the elegance of their culture. While some women may wear them without hijabs, salwar kameez still allows women to look modest.

6. Burqa

A burqa is commonly seen in Afghanistan, although some women outside the region wear it too. It is a long, shapeless head veil and robe that cover a person from head to toe. A mesh panel is sewn in the front part of the face, allowing the woman to see.

7. Kaftans

Kaftans are favorites among many women in Middle Eastern, North African, and Asian countries. A kaftan is a loose piece of dress with flapping sleeves, which falls easily on the body while keeping the appearance modest.

Kaftan has long been viewed as a symbol of luxury, elegance, and sophistication. Many of them are colorful with intricate ornaments or embroideries. Muslim women wear them with or without hijabs, and they are perfect for many events or just a day out.

8. Niqab

A niqab is another common piece of Muslim women’s outfits that gives extra coverage. It covers the wearer from head to toe, complete with a face veil but with an opening for the eyes. While most niqabs are black, many are embroidered or sporting other types of decorative elements, yet without leaving the modest principle.

9. Tunic

Tunics for women are usually knee-length and worn with trousers. They are comfortable and popular in many countries, including Indonesia and Malaysia. Some women even pair them with denim pants for a more modern look.

Tunic comes in various colors, patterns, and models. You can choose a simple, relaxing tunic for daily activities, a slightly formal one for the office, and a glamorous one for a party or other events.

10. Jilbab

Finally, a jilbab is an outer garment that looks similar to a long coat. Muslim women love this piece because it comes in various styles and colors. However, in some countries like Indonesia, the word “jilbab” is often used by general shoppers and the public as headscarves women wear on and around their heads.

Modesty is an important aspect of the philosophy of Islam, especially for women who observe Islamic outfits. The needs for perfect outdoor outfits increase women’s demands for stylish, comfortable, elegant, and affordable outfits that are still modest. 

Also Read: Best Muslim Fashion Designer Believers Must Know

Interested in selling outfits or stock lot garments for Muslim shoppers? Make sure you understand various types of Muslim women’s clothing before planning business strategies.