In Islam, the color green is praised and admired. Some scholars have ranked the best colors for clothing in the following order: the best colors are white, followed by yellow, then green, then soft red, blue, and brown. In this section of Saad News, we will provide necessary explanations regarding the Islamic perspective on clothing colors.
The color of clothing is a personal and subjective matter, and Islam allows everyone the freedom to choose and select their clothing. However, certain colors are mentioned in the narrations of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the infallible Imams (AS), which need further explanation in Islamic jurisprudence.
Islam itself does not have any issue with the color of clothing, and if certain colors are considered disliked (makruh) or subject to other rulings, it is due to various considerations, such as:
The combination of colors in certain clothing styles might be associated with the enemies of Allah.
Some colors may have psychological effects and should not be used in particular situations.
Clothing colors should not make a person stand out excessively.
Maintaining appropriate outward appearance is emphasized.
The Messenger of Islam (PBUH) said: "Wear white clothing, for it is the best of your clothes, and shroud your dead in it."
The Messenger of Islam (PBUH) also said: "The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) disliked black clothing except in three things: shoes, headgear [turban], and cloak."
In the Qur'an, colors such as yellow, green, white, red, and black are explicitly mentioned, while others are discussed more generally.
Criteria for Choosing Clothing Colors
The criteria for selecting a proper clothing color should take into account that clothing serves as protection for the body from cold, heat, and dirt, as well as a source of dignity, beauty, and adornment for the person. The choice of color is a matter of taste and varies based on customs, age, environmental, and geographical conditions. People are free to choose according to their preferences. However, the infallible leaders (Ahl al-Bayt) have shown particular favor towards certain colors, such as:
Green: The color green was favored by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for clothing.
White: Most of the Prophet's garments were white, and he used to say, "Dress in white clothing, for it is the best of your clothes." Since the Prophet (PBUH) was the epitome of cleanliness and neatness, he also emphasized that clothes should be kept clean. White clothing naturally reveals dirt and stains, encouraging the wearer to wash and keep them clean. Additionally, wearing light-colored clothing like white has a calming and uplifting effect on the spirit.
Yellow: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had a cloth dyed with saffron and sometimes wore it while praying. Some colors, like "red," were not preferred by the Prophet for clothing. However, this does not mean that the color red is prohibited or disliked in all cases.
Women's Clothing Colors
Women's clothing does not require a specific color, meaning there is no obligation to wear a particular color. Today, among Muslim women who observe hijab, various colors are commonly worn, depending on the country and culture. However, it is important to note that the woman's clothing should not be such that its color causes attraction or arouses others. Some colors can be visually striking and attract the attention of non-mahrams (those to whom one is not related). In such cases, wearing these colors is not permissible.
Although religious authorities do not place strict emphasis on the color of clothing, they stress that clothing should not attract unnecessary attention. Throughout history, Muslim women have chosen black clothing for their hijab, which made them feel more secure and protected. It is noteworthy that black abayas and chadors are not considered disliked (makruh) and are exceptions to this rule.
Ruling on Colored Clothing for Women
There is no requirement for women to wear a specific color of clothing, but it is important that their attire does not provoke attention or temptation. Muslim women, adhering to the practice of hijab, have often gravitated toward black clothing for its association with respect and sanctity. It appears that black became particularly popular in women's attire about a century ago, whereas in earlier times, women wore a variety of colors in their clothing.
