Burqa and hijab

Types of burqa and hijab

Burqa and hijab are both garments worn by some Muslim women, but they are distinct in their form and the extent of coverage they provide. Here are the main types of each:

• Types of Burqa

  The burqa is an all-encompassing garment that includes a veil with mesh over the eyes so that the wearer is completely concealed. It is mostly worn in Afghanistan and certain regions of Pakistan. Here are the main types:

  • Afghan Burqa

    This is the most widely recognized form of burqa. The Afghan burqa is developed with a full-body covering and includes a mesh screen for the eyes. It is predominantly worn in Afghanistan, where it has cultural and historical roots. This form of the burqa offers comprehensive protection, ensuring that no part of the body is visible to outsiders. The design consists of two components: a long, loose-fitting garment that commences from the head and concludes at the feet, with an attached veil that covers the face.

  • Pakistani Burqa

    The Pakistani burqa is comparable to the Afghan variant but slightly varies in style and fabric. It is commonly lighter and may not always incorporate the rigid structure found in the Afghan version. The emphasis is still on modesty and comprehensive coverage. Some styles may also feature decorative elements such as embroidery or patterns.

  • Indian Burqa

    In India, the burqa is also worn, particularly among Muslim women. The Indian burqa may come in diverse styles and fabrics, focusing on modesty. It can vary from region to region, with different styles being more prevalent in various areas of the country. Some may have additional garments, like a chador or dupatta, which are headscarves.

• Types of Hijab

  The hijab is a more generalized term that denotes the headscarf that many Muslim women wear. It principally covers the hair, neck, and sometimes the shoulders but does not obscure the face. The hijab can be worn in numerous styles based on personal preference and cultural customs. Here are a few common types:

  • Shayla

    The shayla is a long, rectangular scarf that is usually draped over the shoulders and wrapped around the head. It is popular in the Gulf region and is usually secured with pins or tucked in to stay in place.

  • Chador

    The chador is a full-body cloak usually worn in Iran. It covers the entire body apart from the face. Women wear it while walking outside, and it is frequently paired with other garments like dresses or trousers.

  • Duputta

    A dupatta is a long scarf worn over the head and shoulders, commonly in South Asia (India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh). It is a customary part of traditional attire and can be worn in various styles.

  • Hijab with Niqab

    This style combines the hijab with a niqab, a face veil that covers the face but leaves the eyes exposed. The hijab covers the head, hair, and neck, while the niqab covers the face.

  Design of burqa and hijab

  The burqa and hijab serve the same purpose, which is to cover a woman’s face and head, but they are very different in design and the extent of coverage. Here are the key differences in design between a burqa and hijab:

  • Overall Design

    The burqa is a loose-fitting outer garment that covers the entire body from head to toe. It has a mesh screen or netting over the eyes, which allows the wearer to see without revealing any facial features. The burqa is usually worn over other clothing and comes in different colors, with blue being the most common. The hijab, on the other hand, refers to the scarf or head covering worn by Muslim women to cover their hair, neck, and sometimes shoulders. The hijab can be worn in various styles and is usually accompanied by loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs but does not conceal the face.

  • Facial Coverage

    The burqa offers complete facial coverage with a mesh screen over the eyes. This design ensures that the face is completely hidden from view, adhering to certain interpretations of modesty in Islam. The hijab, however, leaves the face, including hair, completely uncovered. Wearers can express themselves through makeup, accessories, and hairstyles while still adhering to the principles of modesty.

  • Carrying Style

    The burqa is typically worn by placing it over the head and adjusting it to ensure a loose fit around the body. It does not require any additional securing as it is designed to stay in place. The hijab, conversely, is worn by draping the scarf over the head and securing it with pins, clips, or by tucking it into clothing to keep it in place. Various styles exist, such as the “wrap and tuck” or the “hijab with a bun,” each offering a unique look and fit.

  • Body Coverage

    In addition to covering the head and neck, the hijab may also include a long-sleeved top, long dress, or an abaya to ensure that the arms and legs are covered. The burqa, being a full-body garment, does not require additional clothing for complete coverage. It is often worn over traditional or Western clothing. Unlike the burqa, which provides total coverage, the hijab allows for more visibility of personal style through the clothing worn underneath.

  • Regional Variations

    The burqa is predominantly associated with specific regions, particularly Afghanistan, where it is a cultural and religious symbol. Its design reflects the local customs and practices regarding modesty. The hijab, however, has a more diverse range of styles and designs depending on cultural and regional influences. For example, the “shayla” is popular in the Gulf States, while the “khimar” is common in parts of Africa. Each style of hijab may have unique features, draping methods, and accompanying garments, reflecting the cultural diversity of Muslim communities worldwide.

  Wearing/Matching suggestions of burqa and hijab

  Combining a burqa or hijab with other clothing items requires attention to cultural significance, modesty, and personal style. Here are some general tips for wearing and matching a burqa and hijab with other clothes:

  • Color Coordination

    When pairing a hijab with an outfit, consider coordinating the colors for a harmonious look. Choose a hijab that complements or contrasts tastefully with the colors of your clothing. Neutral colors like black, white, beige, and gray are versatile and can be paired with various outfits. However, you can also opt for vibrant colors like red, blue, or green to add a pop of color to your ensemble. When wearing a burqa, the focus is usually on the entire garment as a whole, since it is a full-body covering. Thus, one should ensure that the colors of the burqa and the clothes underneath it are coordinated. But in most cases, burqas come in neutral colors such as black or navy, which can easily blend with most clothes.

  • Fabric and Texture

    Consider the fabric and texture of both the hijab and the rest of the outfit. Lightweight cotton or chiffon hijabs are suitable for warmer weather, while silk or jersey fabrics provide more warmth in cooler temperatures. Ensure that the fabrics used for the burqa and the clothes underneath are comfortable and breathable to enhance mobility. Ideally, during the summer, the burqa should be made of lightweight fabric like cotton or chiffon. In winter, heavier fabrics such as jersey or silk are preferred since they offer warmth and are easy to layer.

  • Layering

    Layering is key when wearing a hijab, especially in changing weather conditions. Start with a fitted underscarf or headband to keep the hijab in place. Then, drape the hijab over your head and secure it with pins or a belt to keep it in place. You can add a stylish cardigan, jacket, or coat over your outfit for additional coverage and warmth. Burqas are designed as complete outer garments. However, in some cases, additional layers may be worn underneath for added warmth and modesty. Depending on the weather and occasion, one may wear long-sleeved tops, loose-fitting dresses, or maxi skirts under the burqa. Ensure that the layers are comfortable and allow freedom of movement.

  • Patterns and Prints

    If you're wearing a patterned or printed outfit, consider opting for a solid-colored hijab to balance the look. Conversely, if your outfit is solid-colored, you can choose a hijab with interesting patterns or prints to add visual interest. For burqas, those with patterns or embellishments should be worn with caution, as the focus is on modesty. But in most cases, burqas are plain, featuring no pattern or ornamentation.

  • Occasion and Formality

    Consider the occasion and level of formality when selecting and matching a burqa or hijab with your outfit. For formal events, opt for high-quality fabrics like silk or satin for your hijab, and choose a burqa with elegant details or embroidery. Casual outfits allow for more flexibility in fabric choices and styles. Whether attending a wedding, a religious service, or a casual outing, ensure that your hijab and burqa reflect the occasion's requirements while maintaining your style and comfort.

  Q&A

  Q1: What is the difference between a hijab and a burqa?

  A1: While both the hijab and burqa are worn by Muslim women for modesty, they differ in coverage and style. The hijab covers the hair, neck, and sometimes the shoulders, but leaves the face exposed. The burqa, on the other hand, provides full body coverage, including a face veil (niqab) or mesh screen, obscuring the face entirely. Thus, the burqa offers more extensive coverage than the hijab.

  Q2: Are burqas and hijabs worn in all Muslim countries?

  A2: No, the burqa and hijab are not worn in all Muslim countries. The type of headscarf or attire varies depending on cultural practices, local customs, and personal beliefs within the Muslim community. While the hijab is common in many countries, the burqa is primarily worn in Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan. Other countries may have different styles of hijab, such as the Shayla, Khimar, or Al-Amira, each with unique features.

  Q3: Can women choose to wear a burqa or hijab voluntarily?

  A3: In many cases, women choose to wear a burqa or hijab as an expression of their faith and commitment to Islamic principles of modesty. However, the degree of choice may vary depending on cultural, societal, or familial expectations. In some regions, women may face pressure or legal requirements to wear these garments, while in others, they can freely decide to adopt them as part of their religious practice.

  Q4: Can one see through a burqa?

  A4: A burqa incorporates a mesh screen or veil in front of the wearer's face, allowing limited visibility. However, this mesh is designed to obscure the view of others, ensuring privacy while limiting the wearer's ability to see clearly. This arrangement aims to maintain modesty and concealment in public spaces.