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What is the Definition of ‘Looseness’ With Regards to Modest Dress?

Answered as per Hanafi Fiqh by Seekersguidance.org
Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch
Question Summary

What is the definition of ‘looseness’ with regards to modest dress?

Question Answer


In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate

A practical definition for looseness is that the clothing fits in a way that the shape/form of the body cannot be seen. This is a main component of the way the Prophet (may Allah bless him and give him peace) dressed.

The Exception to the Rule: “Except What Normally Appears”

If a person wears loose clothing, according to the above definition, and still the shape of some parts are their body are visible due to their build – this is excused. The same applies if one is walking and the wind makes the clothing stick to the body and shows the shape.

Allah Most High says, “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, and not to reveal their adornments except what normally appears…” [Qur’an; 24:31]

Included in the exception ‘except what normally appears’ is that which would require undue difficulty to cover. [Alusi, Ruh al-Ma’ani]

Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch

Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

This answer was collected from Seekersguidance.org. It’s an online learning platform overseen by Sheikh Faraz Rabbani. All courses are free. They also have in-person classes in Canada.

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