Reflection
Understanding tabarruj beyond clothing and why intention, context, and attention matter.
A gentle clarification: Tabarruj is not only about what we wear. It is about how and why attention is drawn.
The topic of tabarruj is often reduced to one simple idea: showing skin. While covering the body is an important part of modesty, it is not the full picture.
In Islamic understanding, tabarruj refers to intentional adornment that draws unnecessary attention in public spaces. This means a person can technically be covered and still fall into tabarruj if the goal or effect is to be noticed.
This distinction matters, especially in a time where modest fashion is widely visible and often blended with trends, aesthetics, and self-expression.
Tabarruj is about attention, not exposure alone
Tabarruj is not defined only by how much skin is shown. It is defined by whether something is designed to attract the gaze.
Adornment that exists purely to stand out, impress, or be noticed publicly can fall under tabarruj, even if the body is technically covered.
This is why modesty in Islam has always included behaviour, movement, intention, and context, not only clothing.
Adornment that often gets overlooked
Some forms of adornment are widely discussed, while others are rarely questioned.
Examples that can fall under tabarruj in public spaces include:
- Highly embellished fabrics such as sequins or feathers
- Heavy or striking makeup designed to draw attention
- Excessive jewellery worn for display rather than function
- Bold nail polish or detailed nail art
- High heels that alter posture, sound, or movement in a way that attracts notice
The issue is not beauty itself. The issue is when beauty is intentionally amplified for public attention.
Fragrance and movement also matter
Modesty is not only visual.
Wearing fragrance in public spaces is another aspect often overlooked. Even when clothing is modest, fragrance can still draw attention in ways that contradict the purpose of hijab.
Similarly, how one walks, moves, and carries themselves plays a role. Modesty includes presence, not just appearance.
A helpful question: Is this meant to be noticed first, or does it simply exist?
Context changes what is appropriate
Islam recognises context.
Decorative abayas, jewellery, makeup, and adornment may be appropriate among family, close friends, or private gatherings. They are not automatically wrong.
The concern arises when those same forms of adornment are taken into public spaces where modesty serves a different purpose.
This is why wearing an Eid outfit while travelling to and from the venue can blur lines. The intention may be celebration, but the context is still public.
Modesty is protection, not erasure
Tabarruj is often misunderstood as a rejection of beauty. In reality, modesty is about protecting beauty, not erasing it.
Islam does not call women to be invisible. It calls them to be intentional.
Modesty preserves dignity, reduces objectification, and shifts the focus from appearance to presence, character, and purpose.
A final reflection
Understanding tabarruj is not about policing one another. It is about self-awareness.
Every modesty journey is gradual. Awareness often comes before change.
May Allah grant us clarity, sincerity in our intentions, and gentleness with ourselves as we continue to grow.
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