According to Islamic teaching, both men and women observe a dress-code that is modest and dignified. For women, it includes the covering of the body, save for the hands and face. The clothing must also be loose as not to show off a woman's shape and the colours that are customary for the woman's culture. The clothing should also not imitate those of men. A woman who observes these guidelines is often described as observing Hijab.
The shirtdress fits Islamic requirements with respects to Hijab as it can be worn as a long top. It covers a woman's body down to her thighs Depending on the cut, the shirtdress can be loosened around the waist to de-emphasise any curves, neatly hiding them away. With long-sleeves and a shirt-collar neck, arms and the rest of the upper torso are also kept out of sight.
A shirtdress can be worn with a long skirt or trousers depending on the prints on the shirtdress.
A colourful shirtdress can be worn with jeans, trousers or a skirt. A plain headscarve of a hamonious colour can be added to the outfit. A plain shirtdress can be worn with a patterned skirt and a complementary headscarve that does not clash with the skirt. A plain shirtdress with a pair of trousers or plain-coloured shirt can be accompanied by a colourful headscarve.
Since shirtdresses have become so popular of late, they come in so many variations of colour, fabric, prints and designs that they are able to suit different Muslim women around the world. For conservative Muslimahs who prefer to wear black, the shirtdress can be as demure as the traditional abaya or jilbab. For those who like colours that change with the season, a range of shirtdresses can be seen in leading fashion retailers around the world with changing trends that accompany the season.
The shirtdress can be worn by the working woman who is always on the go. It has a professionally corporate look, but does not compromise a Muslim woman's dress code. It can also be worn after hours, for a trip to a restaurant with girlfriends or the family. The busy mother who is chauffering her children between school and extra activities, running errands and attending classes at the masjid will also find the casual shirtdress an important addition to her closet. Depending on the colours and print, a shirtdress can also be worn by younger Muslim girls who are studying or out bowling with friends.