Dress, hijaab

A Black synthetic hijaab with a stand collar and centre front opening with concealed popper fastenings. A patterned trim on either side of the opening is made of machine embroidery over synthetic fabric strips. This is part of an outfit given to the Museum of London in 2000 by the Asian Womens' Advisory Service. They explained that 'by wearing a Hijaab, a Muslim woman can concentrate on her tasks whilst feeling secure and protected'.

The outfit forms part of the traditional religious dress worn by Arabic Muslim women. The word 'Hijaab' comes from the Arabic word 'Hajabah' that means to hide or to conceal. The law of Hijaab requires that the whole female body be concealed. The outer garment should be of simple quality and the eyes should be covered with a net or cloth. Hijaab is intended to underline the importance of purity and morality for a Muslim woman, whilst upholding her status and dignity.