What Is a Full Body Hijab Called? Simple Muslim Guide

If you're wondering what a full body hijab is called, the short answer is: it's usually referred to as a jilbab, abaya, or khimar, depending on the style and region. These garments go beyond just covering the hair—they're designed to cover the entire body, often from head to toe, while still being modest, loose-fitting, and comfortable. But here's the thing: there's no single name that fits all, and what one person calls a jilbab, another might call an abaya. Let's break it down in a way that's simple, honest, and easy to understand—no fluff, no confusion.

Okay, so we've all heard the word "hijab," right? Most of us think of it as just the headscarf, and yeah, that's part of it. But in Islamic dress, especially for women who choose to cover more fully, there's a whole range of clothing that falls under the category of "full body hijab." These garments are made to cover the body in a way that aligns with modesty guidelines in Islam—but that doesn't mean they're all the same. Different styles, different names, different vibes. And if you've ever felt lost scrolling through hijab fashion online, trust me, you're not alone.

Let's make this super clear from the beginning: hijab isn't just a scarf, and full-body coverage has layers—literally. Whether it's a jilbab that covers you from shoulders to ankles with a built-in head covering, or an abaya that flows loosely over your clothes, or even a khimar that drapes over your head and down your body, each piece serves a purpose. And depending on where you're from or who you ask, the names and designs might change, but the goal is the same—cover modestly and comfortably.

Is It Haram to Pray Without Hijab?

You might be thinking, "Why do the names matter?" Well, if you're shopping for one, or just trying to understand what your friend or someone online is referring to, it really helps to know the differences. Plus, understanding the terms can give you better context when you hear discussions around Islamic dress. Some women wear a niqab (which covers the face) along with their jilbab, while others may choose a looser abaya with a scarf. It's not one-size-fits-all, and that's kind of the beauty of it.

In this article, I'll walk you through what each of these full-body hijab styles are, where the names come from, and how they're worn in different parts of the world. Whether you're curious, learning, or just want to feel more confident in using the right terms, you're in the right place. Let's make sense of it all—together.

First, What's the Deal With Hijab?

Let's start with the basics before diving into full body coverage. You've probably heard the word hijab used in a lot of different ways—and honestly, that's because it is used in a lot of different ways. In everyday talk, people usually mean the scarf worn over the head. But technically, in Islam, hijab refers to the entire concept of modest dressing and behavior. So when we say "full body hijab," we're actually talking about the broader application of hijab—not just a headscarf, but clothing that covers the whole body in a modest, respectful way. Let's unpack that in a way that makes sense.

Do Muslims Wear Hijabs in Private?

Hijab Isn't Just One Thing

Hijab isn't one specific piece of clothing—it's a whole approach to dressing. It's about keeping things modest, loose-fitting, and not too attention-grabbing. That doesn't mean boring or ugly (thankfully!), it just means your body shape shouldn't be on display.

For women, this usually includes covering everything except the hands and face (and in some cases, the feet). But how that's done varies a lot depending on culture, preference, and lifestyle. So yeah, hijab is personal, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all rulebook.

The headscarf you usually see? That's often called a hijab too, but in many cultures, people use other terms like shayla, khimar, or dupatta. And when someone goes for full-body coverage, that's when you'll hear names like jilbab, abaya, khimar, and niqab come into the conversation.

It's About Modesty and Identity

Wearing hijab isn't just about covering up; it's also a visible expression of identity and belief. For many Muslim women, choosing to wear a full-body hijab is a personal and sometimes empowering decision. It can reflect faith, modesty, or even cultural pride. And honestly, that can look a little different for everyone.

Some women might go for a loose abaya and a simple scarf. Others might choose a one-piece jilbab with a built-in head cover. There's no single "correct" outfit, because modesty doesn't have a strict uniform. What matters most is that it's modest, clean, and respectful.

And if you're thinking full coverage means you can't have style—nope, not at all. From modern designs to flowy fabrics, there are so many ways to express yourself while still dressing modestly.

Different Styles Around the World

Now, let's talk fashion geography. The styles of full-body hijab vary depending on where you are. And honestly, it's fascinating how much cultural diversity shows up in modest clothing.

• In Saudi Arabia, the go-to is often a black abaya with a niqab (face covering).
• In Indonesia and Malaysia, you'll find colorful jilbabs and khimars with lots of layering and pastel vibes.
• In North Africa, djellabas and loose kaftans are more common.
• In Turkey, you'll see a mix of tailored coats with chic scarves—very modern, very polished.
• In Western countries, Muslim women often mix modesty with everyday practicality—think maxi dresses with cardigans or sporty hijab wear.

So while the principles of modesty are similar, the fashion side? Totally flexible.

Table: Common Full Body Hijab Terms

Here's a quick breakdown to help you sort through the names and styles:

Name	Covers	Usually Includes	Common Regions
Abaya	Full body except hands, face, feet	Loose outer cloak, scarf	Middle East, North Africa
Jilbab	Head to toe (some with attached scarf)	One-piece or two-piece outfit	Southeast Asia, Middle East
Khimar	Head and chest, often long	Scarf that drapes over shoulders and chest	Global
Niqab	Face (except eyes), worn with abaya/jilbab	Face veil, scarf, full body covering	Gulf countries, parts of South Asia
Chador	Full body except face	Open front cloak, held with hands	Iran

So What's the Name for Full Body Hijab?

Alright, let's get to the big question—what do you call that modest outfit that covers everything from head to toe? You've probably heard different names tossed around—jilbab, abaya, niqab, chador—and maybe even thought they were all the same thing. Spoiler: they're not. Each one has its own vibe, its own level of coverage, and often its own cultural origin. In this section, I'll walk you through what each term actually means, how they're worn, and how they're different from one another. This will help you not only understand what's what, but also know what to look for if you're buying or just trying to use the right term in a conversation.

It's Called a Jilbab (Most Commonly)

Let's start with the word that gets used the most when people talk about full-body hijab: jilbab. A jilbab is typically a long, loose garment that covers the body from the shoulders all the way down to the ankles or feet. Most modern jilbabs also come with an attached or matching headscarf, making it a super practical option for women who want to cover in one go.

Jilbabs are especially popular in Southeast Asia, parts of the Middle East, and even among Muslims in Western countries. They come in different styles—zip-up, pull-over, buttoned—and can be found in lightweight fabrics for warmer weather or thicker material for colder seasons. You'll often see women pairing a jilbab with a niqab (face veil) if they want additional face coverage, but by itself, a jilbab already checks the modesty box.

The main thing to remember? A jilbab covers the full body and is designed to be worn outside, over regular clothes. Think of it as your modest outer layer—it's like a long, modest coat but way more flowy and breathable.

Other Names: Abaya, Chador, Niqab (With Face Veil)

Okay, now let's talk about the other terms that often pop up in the full-body hijab conversation:

• Abaya: This is a super popular garment in the Gulf region, like Saudi Arabia and UAE. It's a loose, robe-like dress that covers the body and is usually worn with a separate scarf (and sometimes a niqab). Unlike a jilbab, the abaya often has no built-in head covering, so you usually match it with a hijab or shayla.
• Chador: This one is mostly worn in Iran. It's a large piece of cloth that wraps around the entire body and is open at the front, often held closed with the hands or tucked under the arms. The chador doesn't usually have sleeves or buttons—just full coverage that you sort of "drape" over yourself.
• Niqab: Technically, niqab isn't a full-body garment by itself—it's the face veil that covers everything except the eyes. But it's often mentioned alongside jilbab or abaya because many women wear it as part of their complete modest look.

Each of these styles fits under the umbrella of full-body hijab, but they each offer slightly different levels of coverage, ease of movement, and cultural flair.

They're Not All the Same – Here's How They Differ

It's super common to mix up these terms, especially if you're new to the modest fashion space or just getting into understanding Islamic dress. But knowing the differences can really help if you're shopping online, having a conversation with someone from a different region, or even just building your own wardrobe.

Let's clear it up with a breakdown:

• A jilbab is usually more functional, designed for outdoor use, and often comes as a full set with an attached headscarf.
• An abaya is more about elegance and simplicity—think flowing fabric, solid colors, and worn with a hijab or niqab.
• A chador is more traditional, doesn't have sleeves or buttons, and gives maximum coverage in one big wrap.
• A niqab, on its own, just covers the face—but it's usually paired with one of the other garments to complete the look.

Also worth noting: these garments are not exclusive to specific beliefs or "levels" of religious practice. Some women choose what they feel most comfortable in, while others follow cultural or family traditions. There's a lot of variety, and that's okay.

Table: Full Body Hijab Terms & Their Differences

Garment Name	Covers	Includes Head Cover?	Special Features	Common Regions
Jilbab	Body (shoulders to feet)	Yes (often built-in)	One-piece outfit, practical	Southeast Asia, Middle East
Abaya	Body (neck to feet)	No (worn with hijab or niqab)	Elegant, robe-like	Gulf Countries
Chador	Entire body (except face)	No (face uncovered)	Open front, draped, no sleeves	Iran
Niqab	Face (except eyes)	Covers face, worn with others	Tied around head, various lengths	Gulf, South Asia

Is a Full Body Hijab Required in Islam?

This is the question a lot of people are curious (and sometimes confused) about. Is a full-body hijab really required in Islam, or is it more of a personal or cultural choice? Honestly, it's not a black-and-white answer. While modesty in dress is clearly emphasized in Islamic teachings, how that modesty is practiced varies depending on interpretation, context, and individual belief. So if you've ever felt overwhelmed by mixed messages or just want a clear breakdown of what's actually said (and not just repeated online), you're in the right place.

Depends on Interpretation

Here's the thing—Islam isn't practiced the exact same way in every country, community, or even household. That's why when it comes to the idea of "full-body hijab," there's a lot of room for interpretation.

Some scholars and schools of thought view full-body coverage (except for the face and hands) as a clear obligation for Muslim women, especially in public or in front of non-mahram men (men who aren't immediate family). Others see it more as a strong recommendation—something virtuous but not necessarily required in every situation.

And then there are communities that prioritize modesty but don't emphasize full-body garments like the jilbab or abaya. Instead, women might wear long, loose clothing paired with a headscarf—and that's considered perfectly valid by their standards. So yeah, it depends a lot on where you are, who you ask, and how you interpret the overall message of modesty in Islam.

Quranic References – Surah Al-Ahzab

When it comes to the Quran, the most cited verse on full-body hijab is Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59. Here's the part that matters most:

"O Prophet, tell your wives, your daughters, and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be recognized and not be abused…" (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:59)

This verse is often interpreted to mean that Muslim women should wear a garment (often understood as a jilbab) over their regular clothes to maintain modesty and avoid unwanted attention. The word used in Arabic is "jalabeebihinna", which is the plural of jilbab—yep, the same word we talked about earlier.

But again, interpretations vary. Some believe this verse makes full-body hijab obligatory, while others argue it sets a guideline for modesty without locking in a specific dress code. The key idea is that modest dress should protect, distinguish, and honor the woman—not restrict her.

What Scholars Say About It

Okay, let's talk about what actual scholars have said over the years—because their opinions have shaped how millions of Muslims understand and practice hijab today.

• The majority opinion among classical scholars is that full coverage of the body (except the hands and face) is required for women in public settings. This includes the use of garments like the jilbab or abaya.
• Some scholars, particularly in more flexible schools like the Hanafi madhhab, argue that covering everything except the face, hands, and sometimes feet is sufficient, as long as the clothing is loose and non-revealing.
• Contemporary scholars may take a more context-based view, recognizing the challenges of modern life, work environments, and individual freedom of choice. They still emphasize modesty but don't always enforce specific garments like the jilbab.

It's also worth mentioning that intention matters a lot in Islamic practice. Many scholars agree that if a woman intends to dress modestly and is sincerely trying her best, she's fulfilling the purpose of hijab—even if her outfit doesn't tick every traditional box.

Table: Scholar Views on Full-Body Hijab

Scholar Group	View on Full Body Hijab	What's Considered Acceptable	Notes
Classical Majority	Required (Fard)	Jilbab or abaya over full body	Based on Surah Al-Ahzab & Hadith
Hanafi Scholars	Recommended but flexible	Loose clothing, scarf, not necessarily jilbab	Emphasis on non-revealing, clean dress
Contemporary Scholars	Contextual and personal	Any modest clothing that aligns with intent	Focus on sincerity and adaptability

FAQs

Let's be real—modest fashion and Islamic dress can feel like a lot to unpack, especially with so many different terms floating around. Whether you're Muslim, new to hijab, just curious, or doing research for a friend, you've probably had some of these questions. So in this section, I'm breaking down the most common ones I hear (and have Googled myself at some point!). Think of it as your go-to cheat sheet for everything full-body hijab related—clear, honest, and easy to understand. No gatekeeping here.

What's the full-body hijab called in Islam?

The term most often used for full-body hijab is jilbab. In Islamic context, a jilbab is typically a loose-fitting garment that covers a woman's body from the shoulders or neck down to the feet. It's usually worn over everyday clothes when going outside or being around non-mahram men (those who aren't close family).

Depending on the region, people might also refer to abaya, khimar, or even chador when talking about full-body coverage. Each name represents a slightly different style or way of covering, but they all serve the same purpose—modest coverage in public spaces.

Is jilbab different from abaya?

Yes, they're kind of the same but not quite. Both jilbab and abaya are outer garments that cover the body, but they differ in structure and style.

• A jilbab usually refers to a full-coverage outfit that may come in one piece and often includes a built-in headscarf or hood.
• An abaya is more of a long, robe-like dress that covers from shoulders to feet but doesn't include a head covering. You usually pair it with a scarf (hijab) or niqab if desired.

In many countries, the terms are used interchangeably, but if you're shopping or talking fashion, it's helpful to know the difference.

Is niqab a type of full-body hijab?

Not exactly. The niqab specifically refers to the face covering that leaves only the eyes visible. It's often worn with a jilbab or abaya, which provide the full-body coverage part.

So no, niqab by itself isn't a full-body hijab—but it's part of the whole modest outfit some Muslim women choose to wear. It's important to know that niqab is not obligatory according to most scholars, though some schools of thought encourage or recommend it.

Does the Quran mention the word "jilbab"?

Yes, it does! The word "jilbab" appears in Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59 of the Qur'an:

"O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their jilbab over themselves. That is better so they may be recognized and not harmed." (33:59)

This verse is the primary source that scholars refer to when discussing the requirement of modest dress and outer garments for Muslim women. While the exact interpretation may vary (some say it's symbolic, others say it's literal), the use of the word "jilbab" itself is directly from the Qur'an.

Can hijab just be a scarf and modest clothes?

For many Muslim women, yes. The basic idea behind hijab is modesty, not necessarily a specific outfit. So if a woman wears modest clothing (like a long-sleeve top and loose pants or a long dress) along with a headscarf, that can be considered fulfilling the hijab requirement.

However, some scholars argue that a full-body garment like a jilbab or abaya is closer to what the Qur'an and early Islamic tradition describe. Again, there's room for interpretation here—and what matters most is intention, modesty, and sincerity.

Do all Muslim women wear full-body hijab?

Nope—and that's okay. Not all Muslim women wear full-body hijab, and not all of them wear hijab at all. Everyone's journey with modesty is personal, and there are so many factors that influence how someone dresses: upbringing, culture, personal beliefs, even workplace or school environments.

Some women wear hijab part-time. Some choose modest fashion without full-body coverage. Others follow strict guidelines. Islam allows for flexibility, and modesty can be expressed in many different ways—as long as it's genuine and respectful.

Quick FAQ Answers for Easy Reference

Question	Quick Answer	Extra Details
What's the full-body hijab called?	Jilbab (most commonly)	Also known as abaya, khimar, or chador
Is jilbab different from abaya?	Yes	Jilbab may include head cover; abaya doesn't
Is niqab a full-body hijab?	No	Niqab only covers the face, not the body
Does the Quran mention jilbab?	Yes	Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59
Can hijab be just a scarf & modest clothes?	Yes, for many women	Modesty is key; outfit styles vary
Do all Muslim women wear full-body hijab?	No	Practice varies based on belief, culture, and choice

Conclusion: Full Body Hijab — More Than Just a Name

So, what's a full body hijab called? Well, now you know it's not just one thing. It could be a jilbab, an abaya, a chador, or even a combo that includes a niqab. The key takeaway? These garments serve the same core purpose: to help Muslim women dress modestly in a way that aligns with their beliefs, comfort, and culture. The names might change depending on where you are or who you're talking to, but the intention behind them stays pretty consistent.

One of the coolest things about modest wear in Islam is how diverse it really is. There's no "one perfect look" or single standard. From flowy jilbabs in Indonesia to elegant abayas in the Gulf, and from practical layered styles in the West to classic wraps like the chador in Iran—modesty shows up in all kinds of beautiful, functional ways.

Whether you're starting your hijab journey, researching for someone else, or just trying to understand what all these terms mean, I hope this article helped clear up the confusion. You don't need to know everything overnight, and trust me—every Muslim woman has Googled these terms at some point.

At the end of the day, modesty is deeply personal, and how you choose to practice it is entirely up to you. What matters most isn't the name of the garment—it's how you feel wearing it, how it reflects your values, and how confident you are in your choices. If that means a jilbab, great. If it's a scarf and long dress, that's valid too.

So next time someone asks you what a full-body hijab is called, you can give them more than just a name—you can give them context, clarity, and maybe even a bit of confidence too.