What Is a Turban Hijab?

A turban hijab, sometimes called a head wrap, is a type of head covering worn by Muslim women. Unlike some other head coverings worn in observance of Muslim modesty standards, a turban hijab does not drape over the head, neck, and shoulders. Instead, it is wrapped around the head, collecting the wearer’s hair at the nape of her neck. It may be worn in preference to a headscarf for a variety of reasons, including safety reasons, comfort, or to be less noticeable in cultures where women typically do not wear the hijab.

In Islam, hijab refers to the practice of dressing modestly, something that both men and women are required to do. In many countries and Muslim communities, women cover their head and hair with some type of head covering as part of their commitment to upholding their religion’s standard of modesty and may refer to the head covering itself as a hijab. There are several different types of head coverings worn by Muslim women, each providing various levels of coverage. Some of these coverings cover the head only, while others cover the head, chest, and shoulders. In some very conservative Muslim communities and societies, women may cover their faces as well.

For some women, wearing a long headscarf can be problematic because of their professional responsibilities. If a woman works in a field where wearing a large piece of material on her head could present a threat to her safety or the safety of others, she must either abandon wearing a head covering or find a suitable replacement. A turban hijab allows a woman to cover her head and hair while not having to worry about folds of cloth getting in her way or blocking her vision.

Some Muslim women may appreciate being less conspicuous in their dress while in countries where most women do not conform to Muslim modesty standards. In many Western countries, such as the United States, women who are not Muslim may wear turban head coverings for a variety of reasons, including covering hair loss or because they belong to other religious faiths that prescribe covering their hair.

Different styles of turban hijab are available, allowing a woman a wide range of choice when selecting this type of head covering. Turban hijabs come in a variety of colors, and some are decorated with sequins or other embellishments, creating a dressy look. For women who wish to wear a turban hijab but who prefer to dress more conservatively, some types of turban hijabs are attached to a neck scarf that can be draped for a more traditional, covered appearance.