Hijab in Iran

After the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the Hijab became the mandatory dress code for all Iranian women by the order of Ayatollah Khomeini, the supreme leader of the new Islamic Republic.^[1] Hijab was seen as a symbol of piety, dignity, and identity for Muslim women.^[2]

The Safavid dynasty centralized Iran and declared Shia Islam as the official religion, which led to the widespread adoption of hijab by women in the country. Shia Islam served as a tool for the Safavids to consolidate the diverse ethnic groups under their authority and to differentiate themselves from their Sunni Muslim adversaries.^[3] Women continued to wear hijab as a prevalent fashion trend during the Qajar era, with increased inspiration from European fashions and materials. The Pahlavi era (1925-1979) was marked by significant changes in the hijab and women's dress in Iran, reflecting the influence of Westernization, modernization, and political movements. The first Pahlavi era, under Reza Shah (1925-1941), was characterized by the forced unveiling of women, known as Kashf-e hijab, as part of the regime's attempt to secularize and modernize the country. Women who resisted the ban on hijab faced harassment, violence, and imprisonment.^[4] The second Pahlavi era, under Mohammad Reza Shah (1941-1979), was more tolerant of women’s choice of clothing, but also encouraged Western styles and fabrics, especially among the urban elite. Women wore a variety of dresses, skirts, pants, suits, and coats, often made of silk, velvet, or brocade. They also wore hijab in different forms, such as scarves, hats, or veils, depending on their personal, religious, or political preferences.^[5]

Following the 1979 revolution, hijab became a compulsory dress code for women by the new regime. Iranian women have since been legally required to wear the hijab, with any infringements being punished by monetary fines and imprisonment. These restrictions have sparked several movements by activists and ordinary citizens who challenge the mandatory hijab, seeking more freedom and rights for women. In response, the government has often cracked down on protests with violence, notably during the Mahsa Amini protests.