Fashion vs Modesty:

By Dr  Gazala Ishaq

(Research Scientist & Freelance Writer,Nottingham,UK)

The catwalks of fashion shows and exhibitions usually unveil the upcoming mainstream fashion trends to hit the stores. In keeping up with the new modern look, everyone flocks to purchase these latest seasonal styles, whether it be from the big designer retailers or from the high street fashion stores.

Undoubtedly, the fashion industry is big business, after all everyone needs clothes to wear. But how often have you stopped to think how this fashion industry exploits you, particularly your body, to make money out of you.

Naturally, clothes are designed around to fit around the body- how else you would cover it! – Right! Nothing wrong with that – I hear you say.  So how are we being exploited?

The style of the season is usually determined by the tailoring process. The key element that determines the tailoring process is dependant upon the part of the body that is going to be the next fashion accessory to be displayed. After all it is the varying cuts and the tailored fitting of the garment that is used to expose, enhance, shape or accentuate your body in one form or another.

In short, mainstream fashion designers play around with the body to decide which part of the anatomy is going to be used next to trigger the desire of the opposite gender.

The dress code of Islam doesn’t have to be fashionless, but it is designed in a manner to maintain decency and modesty of the individual.

Garments of Modesty

The concept of the Hijaab uses clothing to maintain modesty.  To conceal, rather than to expose, so that that we can respect each other as brothers and sisters of Islam and not as objects of desires.

Specification of Hijaab

-The muslimah’s dress code, in front of non-mahrams, should cover her entire body, from head to toe.

- It should not be transparent

- It should be loose

- It should not be perfumed and

- It should not resemble the dress code of the opposite gender and

- It should not resemble the dress code of a non-muslim, where according to a hadith that states that, if you imitate the kuffar then you will be regarded as one of them.

Benefits of Hijaab

- The hijaab is a display of modesty and not as an object of desire. It signifies your value just like that of precious diamond where not anyone can look at you touch you.

- It is an identity of a Muslimah that sends a signal to others to lower their gaze.

- It is a blessing (barakah) to everyone, for both husband and wife and the community at large.

Reference:

stunninghijab.com