If you want to travel abroad, each country has particular regulations. When you want to travel to Iran, one rule that you might want to consider is Iran Dress Code.
Women Dress Code:
Under Islamic Republic law, Iran Dress Code states that women wear the hijab. However, the Iranian hijab is significantly different from other Islamic countries. First, it’s mandatory, and second, it’s diverse and colorful.
Any cover that is not so sheer and covers the arms, legs, and hair is an example of an Iranian hijab. There are no restrictions in terms of choosing the color and design of the dress. Only a layer of hijab is enough for tourism in Iran Dress Code. In other words, the hijab in Iran doesn’t mean you have to cover yourself from head to toe in black. And you will find this out by looking at the clothing of Iranian citizens.
It is unavoidable for women tourists in Iran to cover some of their hair. Women tourists could have a scarf or shawl in their carry-on to uphold the customs of their host society so that they do not have any difficulties providing one at the airport. If you do not have a scarf, nothing unusual will happen. You only need to spend more time and a little money to buy a scarf from somewhere.
According to Iranian regulations, for only some holy shrines, female tourists must use a cover called “Chador” to visit places like Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, Hazrat Masoumeh shrine in Qom, Shahcheragh shrine in Shiraz, etc. These sites, as does any main Church or Buddhist temple, provided Chador for visitors for free. The Iranian Chador is a large and patterned piece of cloth that you place on your head. To wear it with more comfort, they have designed new Chadors with sleeves and a hood.
Wearing the Chador (the Iran Dress Code) in these sites is rooted in cultural and religious beliefs and is considered a respectful sign for that holy Shrine.
Other than the hair, tourists must cover their arms, shoulders, and legs too.
Dress Code for Men
Under Islamic Republic law, the Iran Dress Code states that it is not common for men to wear sleeveless blouses and short trousers. Although not prohibited by law, it is not the daily costume of men in Iran. Men do not need to wear Chadors. However, they should put on the usual clothing of Iranian men (shirts and pants).
How do Locals dress in Iran?
Approximately a quarter of Iranian women wear Chador, and it’s traditionally black. Most women only wear a manteau that reaches down to mid-thigh. This manteau could either be open from the front with a long T-shirt underneath it or buttoned. Their hair is not covered.
Despite most Men wearing trousers and shirts, almost a quarter of men wear a suit too.
Note: The new Iran Dress Code law states that the hijab must be worn at all times, even if you are in a private car.
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