This table of types of hijab describes terminologically distinguished styles of Islamic clothing commonly associated with the word hijab. The Arabic word hijāb can be translated as "cover, wrap, curtain, veil, screen, partition", among other meanings.[1] In the Quran it refers to notions of separation, protection and covering in both literal and metaphorical senses.[2] Subsequently, the word has evolved in meaning and now usually denotes a Muslim woman's veil or the notion of separation between the sexes.[2] In English, the term refers predominantly to the Islamic head covering for women and its underlying religious precepts.[3][4]
A type of outer garment from the Najd region of the Middle East which covers from the head to the feet. It is also becoming increasingly common amongst the conservative women of Pakistan. Traditional abayas are black, and may be either a large square of fabric draped from the shoulders or head, or a long black caftan.
Al-amira
A two-piece veil. It consists of a close fitting cap, usually made from cotton or polyester, and an accompanying tube-like scarf.
A veil that is tied on at the forehead and falls to cover the entire face but has no cut-out for the eyes; instead, the fabric is sheer enough to be seen through.
Women wear it in United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar and Arabs of Southern Iran. This tradition has almost died out in the newer generations. Older women usually not younger than 50, and those living in rural areas can still be seen wearing them.
Traditional Central Asian style outer garment that covers the entire body and has a grille over the face that the woman looks through. Very similar in style and function to other Central Asian styles such as the paranja.
An Iranian traditional outer garment (also exist in Turkey) that covers the head and body and is a full-length semicircle of fabric but comes down to the ground. Does not have slits for the hands and is held shut with the hands, teeth or simply wrapped under the arms.
Common Pakistani, Punjabi and Indian garment, a large colored cloth made of a lightweight fabric that covers the head and shoulders. Usually sold in a three-piece set with colors or patterns matching the pants and shirts of a Salwar kameez. Worn by Hindus as well.
The term used in the Qur'an (Suratu l-Ahzāb, āya 59) to refer to the outer garment. In Indonesia, the term jilbab refers exclusively to the head-covering.
Most commonly, a circular head covering with a hole cut out for the face, which usually comes down to the waist. Note the variations buknuk and chador above, which are the same style but different lengths.
A Central Asian traditional outer garment that covers the head and body, heavy in weight and made from horsehair. Especially prevalent in Uzbek and Tajik societies and very similar in style and function to other Central Asian regional styles such as the Afghan chadari.
Selendang
In Indonesia, a multi-purpose shoulder sash that can be tied around the shoulders to carry infants and groceries, or draped over the head.
Shayla
Long, rectangular scarf, wrapped around the head and tucked or pinned in place at the shoulders. Popular in the Gulf region.[5]