Types of Hijab – Fabric & Style Guide for Muslim Women in USA | Wazi Empire

There are many types of hijab used in different countries of the world. There are more than a dozen of them in number. However, in reality, most types of hijabs basically fall into two major categories.

The first is Wrap Styles. This type of hijab is made of a flat cloth. You fold the cloth as you like, wrap it around your head and use pins if necessary. Shayla Hijab and Square Hijab are the most well-known examples of this type.

The second is Ready-to-Wear Styles. This type of Hijab is already sewn. So there is no need to fold or style it separately. It is set beautifully when you just put it on. Instant Hijab and Khimar are two of the most popular styles in this category.

Which Hijab Style is best for you depends mainly on three things. First, how much time you want to spend wearing Hijab every day. Second, how much coverage you prefer. Third, what type of fabric feels most comfortable with the weather in your area and daily activities.

In this guide, we will discuss all the popular Types of Hijabs step by step. Along with this, you will also easily know about the different types of Hijab fabrics. Apart from this, you will get clear answers to the question What is Hijab. You will also understand the difference between Niqab vs Hijab in simple language. Finally, you will also know the easy way to choose the right Hijab Style according to your lifestyle, needs and personal preferences.

First: What Is a Hijab?

The word Hijab comes from the Arabic language. It means "to cover" or "to hide". In general, Hijab refers to a headscarf that covers the hair, ears and neck, but leaves the entire face open. Many Muslim women wear Hijab as part of their religious beliefs and for many and it is also an important part of their daily clothing. Therefore, today, different types of Hijab styles, designs and fabrics are easily available.

Hijab vs. Niqab vs. Burqa: What's the Difference?

Many people think that Hijab, Niqab and Burqa are the same thing.

But in fact, there is a clear difference between these three.

The rest of this guide only discusses Hijab. That is, a headscarf, where the entire face is exposed.

Hijab Styles: The Main Types

1. Shayla

Shayla is a long rectangular scarf. It usually measures about 70 × 26 inches. It is wrapped around the head and left on the shoulders or pinned with pins. This style is very popular in the Gulf region. Even those who are new to wearing Hijab find it quite easy. Because the rectangular fabric fits easily and beautifully. Shayla is a great choice for those who want to style the same scarf in different ways.

2. Square Hijab

Square Hijab is usually a square scarf measuring 45 × 45 inches. Before using it, it is folded into a triangle shape. This style is very popular in Turkey. Due to the folding, a beautiful frame is created around the face. At the same time, a light volume is also seen on the head. This style requires a little practice. Most of the time, it stays in place better if you use an underscarf and a pin.

3. Pashmina Hijab

Pashmina Hijab is a long and wide scarf. It is made of a relatively soft and slightly heavier fabric. So it hangs beautifully and holds its shape easily. Pashmina Hijab is very comfortable during winter or mild cold. There is less trouble in fixing the pins again. So many people use it regularly in winter. During summer, they choose a light fabric Hijab.

4. Khimar

Khimar is a long, loose and pre-stitched head cover. It comes down from the head to the chest. Many designs also reach the waist or knees. It does not require any twisting or styling to use it. Just put it over your head. If you want more coverage, Khimar is a great option. Many women feel comfortable wearing it while going to prayer or mosque.

5. Al-Amira

Al-Amira is a two-piece Hijab set. First, a fitting Undercap is worn. Then a Tube Scarf is worn over it. In Arabic, the word Al-Amira means "princess" and it does not take much time to wear it. Once worn, it stays in place all day long. However, now many women prefer Instant Hijab. Because it provides the same comfort and convenience in one piece of cloth and There is no need to wear a separate Undercap or Tube Scarf.

6. Instant Hijab (One-Piece / Slip-On)

It is a one-piece sewn Hijab, where the face part is already beautifully made. It is done by simply putting it on over the head. No pins are needed. No wrapping is required. There is no need to use a separate Underscarf either. A neat look can be created in just five seconds. Most Instant Hijabs cover up to the chest. 

The big reason why Instant Hijab is so popular today is that it makes everyday busy mornings a lot easier. Newbies to wearing Hijab can use it very easily. It is equally popular with office-going women, busy mothers, or travel lovers. It is easy to fold, so it is convenient to keep in the bag. Ironing is also very less hassle. Now, in addition to solid designs, Instant Hijab is also available in various printed designs. So it is easy to choose the style according to your preference.

7. Sports Hijab

Sports Hijab is specially made for sports and exercise. It uses light, breathable and sweat-drying fabrics. Its Slip-On design fits well. So it does not move easily even while running, gymming, or swimming. If you exercise regularly, a Sports Hijab is much more comfortable than a regular tight-fitting Hijab. It provides comfort during movement and helps you stay active with confidence all the time.

Hijab Fabrics: Fabric Type is as Important as Style

Even though two hijabs of the same design may look the same and the feel of wearing them can be completely different due to the fabric. So, when choosing a hijab, you should not only look at the style, but also the fabric type. Learn about the first of some of the most popular fabrics below.

Chiffon — It is light, slightly transparent and hangs very beautifully. Hijabs made of this fabric look great in pictures and look quite neat when worn. That is why many choose Chiffon for weddings, Eid or any other special occasion. However, since this fabric is a little slippery, it is usually better to use an underscarf and a few pins to keep it properly on the head. If you want a formal look that is neat and tidy, then chiffon hijabs can be a very good choice.

Jersey — This fabric is very soft and has a slight stretch and it sits nicely on the head, so there is no need to use pins most of the time. That is why many people prefer jersey hijabs for comfortable daily use. It is also quite popular with beginners because it can be easily tied. However, a little thick Jersey can feel a little warm on hot days. You can visit the jersey hijabs collection to see designs that are suitable for everyday use.

Modal — This fabric allows air to circulate and gives a softer feel than cotton. Its drape is also very beautiful, so it looks natural and neat when worn. Modals can be used comfortably almost all the time of the year. In addition, the color of this fabric also stays beautiful for a long time. If you want a little elegant look for daily use, modal hijabs can be a good choice.

Cotton — When it comes to a comfortable fabric during the summer, Cotton comes first. It allows air to circulate, is easy to manage and gives a natural and clean look due to its matte finish. Many people choose this fabric for office, college or going out every day. You can visit the cotton hijab collection to see all the necessary options.

Polyester-spandex blends — One of the most important fabrics behind modern instant hijabs is Polyester-spandex blends. Polyester keeps the color of digital prints bright for a long time. The print does not fade easily even after repeated washing. On the other hand, spandex stretches evenly all around. So the hijab can be easily put on the head and later returns to its original shape. This is why printed instant hijabs can retain their beautiful design for a long time.

Choose a Hijab that suits your lifestyle

There is no rule that you have to buy all types of Hijab. Most women use a few essential styles according to their daily routine. To understand which one will be best for you, check out the following points.

• If you are new to wearing Hijab: Initially, choose Instant Hijab. You don't need to learn how to wear it separately. You can get a neat look very easily. Later, if you want, you can gradually try the Wrap Hijab style.
  
• If you have very little time in the morning: Instant Hijab is the most convenient for everyday busy days. And on holidays or if you have a little more time on your hands, you can style it differently with Shayla or Pashmina.
  
• If you want more coverage: In that case, Khimar or Instant Hijab that covers up to the chest may be a good choice. It covers the head, neck and chest better, and also looks beautiful.
  
• If you love to style Hijab in different ways: Then Shayla and Square Hijab are great options for you. You can create many different looks with the same scarf and if you like to try new styles, these two types of Hijab will give you the most freedom.
  
• If there is an event or special occasion: Chiffon Hijab is very beautiful on such days. And if you want to dress a little easier, Instant Hijab with light shimmer or print also looks great. 

For example, the Floral Dream Instant Hijab collection is available in Powder Blue, Navy Blue and Midnight Black. This collection is easily adaptable from everyday use to special occasions.

• If you exercise or play sports: Always use a Sports Hijab. It stays in place well during movement, feels light and provides long-lasting comfort.

Why wait to find the perfect Hijab for you? Explore the complete Hijab Collection at Wazi Empire. Here you will find Instant, Chiffon, Modal, Jersey, Cotton and Sports Hijab—all the popular styles in one place. You can easily choose the right one according to your needs, preferences and daily use. Every order is shipped from the USA within 5–7 business days. And you can rest assured even after your purchase, as there is a 30-day returns facility.