Types of Veils and Headscarves for Muslim Women

The act of veiling among Muslim women carries deep cultural and religious significance, presenting both a personal expression of faith and a rich reflection of local traditions. Broadly speaking, veils or headscarves are encouraged by interpretations of modesty in the Quran. But it’s important to note, however, that the Quran does not give detailed directives for veiling, beyond the principle of modest dressing. Nor is veiling one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

That’s probably why styles of veil vary so much – they are influenced by regional cultures across the Islamic world, and the interpretations of “modesty” that are prevalent in the areas. In some societies, whether Muslim-majority or not, the decision to wear a veil is driven by individual choice and cultural practices. In others, it forms part of legal mandates or strictly enforced moral customs. Even in those cultures, there might still be room for personal tastes, such as colours, patterns or styles. It all makes the veil as much a matter of personal styling as it is of custom and law.

Let’s explore some types of headscarves and veils, revealing their unique styles and regional roots.

Shayla

The shayla is a long, rectangular scarf typically draped around the head and then secured at the shoulders or under the chin with pins. Shaylas are especially popular in the Gulf countries. They offer flexibility in styling and can range from simple, everyday wear to more luxurious versions adorned with embroidery for special occasions.

Hijab

Perhaps the most widely recognised type of veil, “hijab” refers generally to any form of covering used by Muslim women. More specifically, it often means a square scarf that covers the head and neck but leaves the face clear. This type is favoured worldwide, and is the style most frequently adopted in non-Muslim-majority countries. It comes in various fabrics and designs, often influenced by local tastes as much as traditional ones.

Hijab Amira

The hijab amira is a two-piece veil, where one piece is worn like a close-fitting cap and the other piece, usually a tube-like scarf, fits over the top to cover the neck and the shoulders. This style is particularly appreciated for its convenience and ease of wear, proving popular in many parts of North Africa and the Middle East.

Khimar

The khimar is a longer, cape-like veil that drapes over the shoulders down to somewhere between the waist and knees. It completely covers the hair, neck, and shoulders, but leaves the face clear. Its use is more common amongst more conservative communities in the Middle East.

Chador

Originating from Iran, the chador is a full-body cloak typically worn outdoors over daily garments. Made usually from a large rectangular piece of fabric, it covers the whole body but leaves the face exposed. It is often held closed by hand or pinned at the front.

Turban

Various forms of turban have traditionally been worn by some Muslim women, particularly those in West Africa. These garments are wrapped quite firmly around the head, covering the hair, and are often brightly coloured, with floral or geometric designs. Turbans have proved to be popular in Western nations or more liberal Muslim countries, and are the most revealing of all the headwear listed here, as the neck is open. That said, they are often worn in combination with scarves for an elegant, modest look.

Niqab

This veil is specifically for covering the face partially or fully while leaving the eyes uncovered. The niqab is usually worn with a separate headscarf or an abaya. Predominantly seen in Gulf countries and parts of North Africa, its popularity varies within local customs.

Burqa

Completely covering the wearer from head to toe with a mesh screen over the eyes for vision, the burqa is the most concealing of all veils. Whilst synonymous with Afghanistan and Pakistan, variations are also found in other regions. 

Veils: a matter of culture and tradition

These varieties demonstrate how veiling accommodates both personal preference and cultural tradition. While different cultures interpret the concept of modesty differently, all geographic Islamic cultures from all geographic regions have adopted veiling of some sort. As a signifier of cultural identity as well as religious devotion, the veil can say so much about the woman wearing it.