Veiling in Fashion: Space and the Hijab in Minority Communities

Veiling in Fashion explores the worlds of women who wear the hijab, examining its religious and fashion aspects through an ethnographic investigation in Helsinki. It demonstrates how diverse practices are interconnected, appealing to scholars and students in fashion, gender, religion, material cultures, and space.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Veiling in Fashion delves into the captivating world of women who embrace the hijab, serving as both a profound expression of their religious devotion and a vibrant symbol of community identity. This captivating book explores the intricate tapestry of global Islamic fashion history, seamlessly intertwining it with the personal narratives of Muslim women residing in the vibrant city of Helsinki. Through a rich ethnographic investigation, the author offers a unique lens through which to contemplate and enhance our understanding of Muslim dress in international Muslim minority contexts.

The book employs an innovative approach to studying veiling, unveiling the intricate connections between diverse realms of practice. It demonstrates how seemingly separate domains such as fashion, materiality, urban spaces, private lives, religious beliefs, and cosmopolitan social conditions are intricately intertwined, revealing a profound interconnectedness that only a sensitive multi-disciplinary approach can unveil. This captivating work will captivate scholars and students alike, spanning the fields of fashion, gender, religion, material cultures, and the construction of space.

The author's meticulous research unveils the diverse practices and experiences of Muslim women in Helsinki, shedding light on the multifaceted meanings and motivations behind veiling. Through their narratives, the book offers a profound exploration of the role of clothing in shaping identity, cultural expression, and social interactions. It challenges preconceived notions and stereotypes, providing a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the hijab as a symbol of empowerment and resilience.

Veiling in Fashion also delves into the historical and cultural contexts that shape Muslim dress practices. It explores the influence of colonialism, globalization, and the evolving feminist movements on the representation and interpretation of the hijab. The book offers valuable insights into the complexities of cultural appropriation, challenging the Western gaze and promoting a more inclusive and respectful understanding of Muslim fashion.

Moreover, the book highlights the role of the media and popular culture in shaping perceptions and attitudes towards veiling. It examines how the media portrayal of the hijab has influenced public discourse and contributed to the construction of Muslim identities. The author offers critical analysis of the representations of veiling in film, television, and advertising, challenging the dominant narratives and promoting a more nuanced and accurate portrayal of Muslim women.

In conclusion, Veiling in Fashion is a groundbreaking work that offers a profound and multi-dimensional exploration of the hijab as a fashion statement and a symbol of religious devotion. Through its rich ethnographic investigation, the book provides a valuable contribution to the study of Muslim dress in international contexts. It challenges preconceived notions, promotes inclusivity, and fosters a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between fashion, religion, and cultural identity. This captivating book will appeal to scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted world of veiling and its profound impact on society.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 217 x 162 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784539238