Dress Code in Iran

Iranian law requires that all women wear Islamic hijab upon reaching puberty, but it doesn’t specify the form. Women visitors have to observe the hijab law and Iran female dress code, which at the time of writing applies not only to Iranian nationals but to all women. However, If you find others around you being more relaxed about hijab, you can do the same.

Technically, all hair should be covered, but you will soon notice that this isn’t the case in practice. There is no problem with some parts of your hair being out of scarf but there should be a scarf on some part of the head.

About clothes coloring there are some wrong beliefs that they must be dark, but there are absolutely no rules about the color of your clothing so wear as bright as you can and enjoy your time.

Any shades of blue and green, from pastels to deeper hues, and browns and creams are generally acceptable. Turquoise is a favorite of mine, and matches the lovely multi-color tiles in the Isfahan mosques.

Generally, women have to wear clothing that conceals their body parts. In Iran you can see most women wearing “manteau” that might be in different colors and even tight or short.

Your other choice can be “tunics” and pants. If you would prefer to wear a skirt, it should be at least mid-calf or longer, with nontransparent, darkish hosiery underneath.

Ankle length skirts are unusual but acceptable. There is no problem with wearing skinny jeans and high boots but avoid Carpi pants, They are too short and not acceptable. Open toed sandals with nail polish are fine.

During late autumn, winter, and early spring (October to March), these requirements are easier to follow, as women visitors can wear a raincoat over pants.

In the warm and hot months (April until late September), my advice would be to choose a linen jacket or even an oversize but ton-down blouse to get to Iran and then have your first shopping experience hunting for a cool overcoat once you get here.

Despite the common misunderstanding, “chador” is not compulsory except when visiting some mosques and holy shrines, where you can borrow one at the gate or even, if fancy takes you, buy a ready-made one from a nearby bazaar.

The rules about what you wear are just for outside the houses and for private indoor places there are no rule. Feel free to choose your dress code when invited to an Iranian house.

Iranian women dress as they desire in the houses but some religious women follow the Islamic rules about their clothing even in private places.

Anything middle-of-the-road is acceptable, with only two no-nos: avoid shorts at all times, as well as loud, bright shirts and tops (e.g., Hawaiian shirts).

All other leisure wear is acceptable, although be aware that tracksuit bottoms are only used indoors or in gyms, so wearing those pants in the street is likely to attract puzzled glances and smiles.

Short sleeves are acceptable when sightseeing and shopping but not for formal or business occasions.