Niqāb
A niqab is a veil which covers the face, worn by some Muslim women as a part of sartorial hijab.
Depending on the Madhab or Islamic school of jurisprudence followed the Niqab is considered either Fard (obligatory) or Sunna (good thing to do) or even something that is disliked and shouldn't be worn if the wearer might possibly face danger due to it.
There are innumerable styles of Niqab or face veil worn by Muslim women around the world. The most prevelent being:
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- The "half" Niqab is a simple length of fabric with elastic or ties and is worn around the head.
- The Full or gulf style Niqab is a total face cover. It has a upper band that is tied around the forhead and then had a long wide piece attached which covers the face and a opening for the eyes. Many also have a second or more sheer covers that are attached to the upper band and worn flipped down to cover the eyes.
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These are the most common forms of Niqab are are very prevelent all over the world.
Other less common and more cultural or national forms of niqab are as follows:
- The "afghani" style Burqah. The long pleated gown that goes from the head to the feet with a small croched grill over the face.
contrary to popular belief, and probably against what some people would hope, the Burqahs usage is limited solely to afghanistan and certain area of pakistan, althought there are modified forms in kashmir and amongst afghani refugees but the vast majority of Niqabis (Muslim women who fully cover) do not wear this item.
- The "Pak Chadar" This is a unique innovation from Pakistan is it similar to a triangle scarf with 2 additional pieces. a thin band on 1 edge that is tied behind the head so as to keep the chadar on, then another larger rectangular piece is attached to 1 end of the triangle and this is worn over the face.
- The simple hijab (head scarf) wrapped, pinned or tied in a certain way so as to also cover the wearers face.
Other common styles of clothing popularly worn with Niqab in western countries is.
- The Khimaar. A semi-circular flair of fabric, with a opening for the face, usually bust level or longer worn with the Niqab. Its a easy kind of head scarf to wear as there are no pins or anything it is simply pulled over the head.
- Gloves. Many Niqabis feel that gloves are a necessity when wearing the Niqab so nothing is shown.
Also most Niqabis wear an overgarment (Jilbab, Abayah, etc) over their clothing.