A thought on Women's dress from an ex-pat

I recently read an article in Time Magazine by Robin Wright, that really got me thinking. The article, "Islam's Soft Revolution" is in the March 30, 2009 edition pp. 34-38.

Before I really begin, I need to say that women cover-up here to maintain 'modesty' either for social or religious reasons or both. And what is 'modest' among different world cultures, is obviously open to many interpretations. In a Muslim country, 'modest' is going to mean more covered up than say in the UK or the U.S.A.

First, to me, the veil and hijab are two different pieces of clothing. 'Hijab', as I understand it, is to cover the head, hair and neck for modesty. The 'veil' covers the face and may or may not cover the eyes. Women in some regions of this part of the world wear a special covering over their face that is black or of a golden colored metal. I've done posts on Omani dress previously, and this form of veil is pictured in those posts. But, this different type of 'veil' seems to allow for greater freedom of the face while still maintaining modesty.

Second, on pp. 36-37 there are pictures by Olivia Arthur-Magnum (I think) that show and explain how to wear a hijab. The process and garments shown in this series of photos are very elaborate compared to what I see on a day to day basis or even compared to what I myself have at times worn (I'll come back to my clothing choices in a moment). From my experience over the last almost two years now, there are a myriad of ways that women cover themselves to maintain modesty. No doubt, the pictures on pp.36-37 are wonderfully educational especially to people in countries outside the 'middle east.' But, please don't think that this is the 'only' way that women cover to maintain modesty. No, I'm not getting into a discussion here on a 'right way' or 'wrong' ways to cover.

Third, there are times when I cover up a bit. When I travel by car, I wear a loose long sleeve shirt and loose long pants. If I am driving my vehicle of choice outside the area/city/town where I reside, I wear a very loose head covering - a long loose cotton scarf draped over my head and partially covering my neck in the front. Obviously, I am a 'westerner', but I feel it is better to maintain modesty appropriate to being in a Muslim country. This may be my current home, but it is not 'my' country. Therefore, I must respect the customs of the culture in which I reside. Not to mention, I have found that in the heat, a loose headscarf is much more comfortable for keeping the sun off than a hat! I don't sweat as much.

Fourth, when I am 'home' here in my current country in the area/city/town in which I reside, I still dress a bit more modestly than I would in my home country, to a degree. I wear short sleeved shirts, capri pants, skirts down to the knee, but I NEVER wear shorts. I even wear workout pants that extend past my knees if I'm going to the gym and a 'tunic length' shirt. Do other women here do this? No. Many ex-pat women come here and just wear whatever wherever (malls, buying groceries etc). At times, I even see women wearing such skimpy clothing that I'd be a touch offended by it even in my home country!

Fifth, some of the beaches here are different from what you'd probably expect. I have never been to a 'public' beach here. I only frequent 'private' or 'hotel' beaches. On these beaches, you see more women in bikinis than in one piece suits. There does not seem to be this focus on the perfect 'bathing suit' body for women. So here, in the middle of a Muslim country, I own and wear no less than 4 different bikinis. Would I ever wear a bikini back in my home country? I tried it a bit the last time I was home, and I got some strange looks from folks. I guess it was just strange to see a woman my age maybe or my body shape maybe wearing a bikini. Now when I go snorkeling in more public places say in Oman, then I'm more comfortable in a one piece or even my 'skins' or 'farmer Jane' style wetsuit. But for hanging out at the pool with the kids or on the beach with the family, I LOVE my bikinis - very comfortable.

At any rate, thanks for 'hearing' my thoughts.....

Peace.