What Are Khimars? Exploring Their Origins, Styles, and Significance

The khimar is a beautiful and practical garment that holds a special place in the world of modest fashion. Originating from Islamic traditions, the khimar is a long, flowing veil that covers the head, neck, and shoulders, often extending down to the waist or even further. It is mentioned in the Quran in Surah An-Nur (24:31) as a form of modest dress for Muslim women, making it an integral part of Islamic attire and identity.

In its essence, the khimar reflects the principles of modesty and dignity while offering elegance and ease in various settings. Over time, the khimar has evolved to include various styles and adaptations, making it a beloved garment for women across the world.

How and Where Khimars Are Worn

Khimars are incredibly versatile and can be styled for different occasions and purposes. They are widely worn in Muslim-majority countries as a daily garment, particularly for prayer or going out in public. In the West, khimars are also embraced by Muslim women seeking a modest yet stylish option for their wardrobes.

Khimars come in different styles to suit varying preferences:

Everyday Wear: A simple khimar, often made of lightweight materials like chiffon or crepe, is perfect for daily activities, combining practicality with elegance.

Special Occasions: Embellished or layered khimars add a sophisticated touch for weddings, Eid celebrations, or formal events.

For Prayer: Khimars are commonly used during prayer, as they offer sufficient coverage and comfort, making them a practical and spiritual choice.

The adaptability of the khimar makes it a timeless piece for women seeking modesty without compromising on grace or style.

Khimars, Jilbabs, and Niqabs: Key Differences

While all three garments—khimars, jilbabs, and niqabs—are part of Islamic modest fashion, they serve different purposes and provide varying levels of coverage:

Khimar: A long, loose veil that covers the head, neck, and shoulders, often draping down to the waist or hips. It does not cover the face, making it distinct from the niqab. Khimars can be worn over an abaya or other clothing, providing an additional layer of modesty.

Jilbab: A full-body outer garment that covers the entire body except for the face and hands. It is typically worn over regular clothing and provides a more structured fit compared to a khimar.

Niqab: A face covering that conceals everything except the eyes. The niqab is optional in Islam and is often worn with a khimar or jilbab for added privacy and modesty.

Interestingly, khimars can also be paired with a niqab for women who prefer additional coverage. This combination is popular among women who appreciate the balance between modesty and flexibility.

Types of Khimars

The modern khimar has diversified into various styles, catering to different preferences and needs. Here are some common types:

One-Piece Khimars: These are all-in-one garments that serve as a complete outfit, covering the head, neck, and body. They are perfect for prayer or when you want an easy, no-fuss modest look.

Two-Piece Khimars: At LIPES, we offer the Layla Khimar Set, a two-piece outfit that includes a khimar and a matching skirt. This style provides both practicality and elegance, making it an excellent choice for women who want a cohesive, modest ensemble.

Layered Khimars for Abayas: Some khimars are designed to be worn over abayas or other outfits, adding an extra layer of coverage and style. These khimars are often used for formal events or as part of a layered modest look.

Each style brings something unique to the table, allowing women to choose what suits their personal preferences and daily needs.

Supporting Modest Brands

In a world where big brands are beginning to explore modest fashion for profit, it's important to support small businesses that truly value and uphold the principles of modesty. At LIPES, we are committed to offering khimars and other modest fashion pieces that reflect the true spirit of modesty and faith.

Our collection of khimars celebrates both tradition and modernity, featuring timeless designs like the Layla Khimar Set, which combines practicality with beauty. By choosing modest brands that understand the purpose and meaning behind these garments, you contribute to a movement that prioritizes values over market trends.

Final Thoughts

The khimar is more than just a piece of fabric—it’s a symbol of faith, modesty, and empowerment. Its origins in Islamic traditions and its evolution into a versatile and elegant garment make it a cherished choice for women worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a practical everyday piece or something special for an event, the khimar offers endless possibilities to embrace modesty with grace and purpose.

At LIPES, we are honored to be part of your modest fashion journey, offering khimars that reflect your values and enhance your style. Explore our collection today and discover the beauty and versatility of the khimar for yourself.