Objective 1.3

Paper 2

To what extent do rules on dress reflect or inform communal identity?

The rules on dress is a key indicator of that community’s identity. In regards to Muslim woman, there is a large variety on the strictness of their modesty. Some communities are very strict and a full body covering is the social normality of that community. In less traditional communities only a Hijab is worn; and lastly in more modern communities no coverings are worn at all. From the words of a progressive American Muslim women, “She says that Islam teaches modesty — but wearing the Hijab is taking it a step too far.” These many different views really mix up the views of that community. For that reason, based on the style of dress, it can easily be seen the ideals of that community.

            Rules on dress are not limited to just Muslims. All communities reflect their views based on their style of dress. Quite simply, you can assume a general age range of someone and what community they associate with based on their style of dress. For example, a nine year old will dress much differently from a twenty-one year old. Also, clothing is a clear indicator because it is very identifiable, and it has clear borders. What I mean by this is that once you leave that community, the style of dress changes. Because there is so much variety in style of clothing it is a great indicator of that community’s identity.