Colorful clothing for women

Since 2014-01-07
Question:

Can you tell me the ruling on women wearing a red or yellow `abâyah? Does she have to wear black?
 

Answer:

Answer from Sheikh Riyâd al-Musaymîrî, professor at al-Imâm University in Riyadh


There are no restrictions in Islamic Law regarding the colors and patterns of women’s clothing. A woman should only avoid colors that are unusual or bizarre and that consequently make her look out of place among the people. What is unusual is determined by the customs in the country where the woman lives. Something might draw attention in one country and be completely ordinary in another. People should adhere to the customs of their countries in this matter and avoid drawing attention to themselves.

For example, we can consider Saudi Arabia. It is the custom in Saudi Arabia for women to wear the black `abâyah. In deference to this custom, a woman living in Saudi Arabia should wear black and not any other color as long as she is residing in that country. Otherwise, she would look out of place. This is the reason why women in Saudi Arabia should not wear other colors. Islam does not place restrictions on the colors of women’s clothing. It is simply a question of the local norms and customs in Saudi Arabia. Local custom should be respected and observed in these matters.

And Allah knows best.

Source: Islam Today