Fashion is a prevailing custom or style of dress. (Webster's Dictionary) In America, fashion plays a major role in our society. Americans wear clothes because of religion, for protection, attention, and identification. We also look to people of the world for fashion guidance, and clothing trends. Countries in the Middle East, such as Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia cover their bodies because of religion, for protection, attention, and identification also. Though the styles of dress differ, the reasons and influences for the Middle East clothing their bodies are similar to the ones in America. .
What religion we affiliate with can have a difference in the choice and style of clothing we choose. At a level of 1.2 billion, Muslims represent about 22% of the world's population. It has become the second largest religion in the world. (Muslim Population Statistics) The Islamic religion greatly affects fashion in the Middle East. The Qur'an (Koran), or Muslim bible, teaches men and women that modesty is most important. Islam has no fixed standard as to the style of dress or type of clothing that Muslims must wear, but there are requirements that must be met. The clothing should be modest, not excessively fancy, such as gold jewelry or silk; also not excessively ragged to gain others admiration or sympathy. It is said for both men and women, clothing requirements are not to be a restriction, but rather a way in which society will function in a proper, Islamic manner.
In these Muslim countries, the Koran teaches women hijab, the act of covering their bodies from head to toe when in presence of a man. The word hijab comes from the Arabic word hajaba meaning to hide from view, or conceal.
"O Prophet, tell your wives and daughters and the believing women to draw their outer garments around them (when they go out or are among men). that is most convenient in order that they may be recognized (as Muslims) and not be molested.
