Okaz

 

I do not know why there is so much debate about the types of abayas women wear.

 

Frankly speaking, I cannot tell the difference between a good abaya and an inappropriate one. In our society, traditions and norms require women and girls to wear an abaya. The way it is worn should not stir so much debate in society.

 

I know some people will say the Shariah imposes certain requirements for abayas. Throughout my entire life — I am almost turning 50 by the way — I have not seen any see-through abayas as they all cover what is underneath them.

 

We should give women the freedom to wear the type of abaya they like as long as they stick to decency and observe social norms. No one has the right to select an abaya for any woman. I have never heard people talking about the clothes men wear on street even though some men wear weird clothes that contradict social norms and traditions.

 

It all boils down to this: Some people are obsessed with what women wear and do, as if we do not have any other major national issues that deserve more attention. It seems the only thing that interests them is the focus and debate on what type and color of abayas women wear and whether such abayas are tight or loose.