The cultural story behind Muslim men’s headwear and its global fashion influence
In Muslim communities worldwide, men’s headwear such as the kufi, taqiyah, and ghutra reflects this blend of tradition and style.
Fashion isn’t just about trends — it’s about stories. What we wear often carries layers of history, culture, and meaning.
In Muslim communities worldwide, men’s headwear such as the kufi, taqiyah, and ghutra reflects this blend of tradition and style.
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While these pieces have long been worn for faith and function, they have also shaped global fashion in subtle yet powerful ways. Today, they stand as proof that tradition itself can make a bold fashion statement.
1. The kufi: A symbol of respect and style
The kufi is a close-fitting, brimless cap that sits snugly on the head. Often knitted or crocheted, it is worn for religious purposes across Africa and within African diaspora communities.
Its design varies depending on culture — some kufis feature bold geometric patterns while others are more modest. Predominantly worn by Muslim men in North, East, and West Africa, as well as South Asia, the kufi is traditionally linked to respect, wisdom, and piety. It is commonly worn during prayer or on significant occasions.
2. The taqiyah: A symbol of simplicity
The taqiyah, closely related to the kufi, is a small skullcap worn by Muslim men worldwide, particularly during prayer. Usually plain or white, it represents modesty and devotion. Similar to the kufi but simpler and less decorated, this short skullcap is often worn on its own or as a base layer beneath a turban or ghutra.
One practical reason it is worn under other head coverings is that it helps keep cloth in place, prevents slipping, and provides comfort. In hot climates, it also absorbs sweat. In this way, the taqiyah is both functional and symbolic.
What makes the taqiyah enduring is its simplicity.
In style terms, it carries a quiet strength, much like the minimalist looks popular in today’s fashion. With its clean and practical design, the taqiyah has even influenced versions beyond religious use, fitting naturally into both casual and modern wardrobes.
3. The ghutra: Elegance in a drape
Perhaps the most instantly recognisable piece of Muslim men’s headwear is the ghutra, also known as the keffiyeh or shemagh in different regions.
This square scarf, usually white or patterned, is folded and draped over the head. In the Gulf, it is often secured by a black cord called the agal.
The ghutra has a long history of practical use — protecting men from the desert sun and wind. But it is also deeply cultural, worn with traditional clothing such as the thobe and symbolising elegance and dignity. Beyond its cultural roots, the ghutra has inspired global fashion.
Scarves draped over the shoulders, patterned square scarves in streetwear, and even high-fashion runway looks can all be traced back to this timeless style. It serves as a reminder that functionality and elegance can coexist.
Ghutra is perhaps the most instantly recognisable piece of Muslim men’s headwear. (Photo: Pinterest)
4. The fez (tarboosh)
A flat-topped red felt hat, often with a black tassel, the fez was historically worn in the Ottoman Empire, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.
It has long been a symbol of tradition, sophistication, and, at times, political identity. In fashion, its bold shape and striking colour have inspired vintage and retro styles.
The fez, or tarboosh, is flat-topped red felt hat, which has long been a symbol of tradition, sophistication, and, at times, political identity. (Photo: Pinterest)
5. The turban (imama, pagri, or dastar)
The turban is a long piece of cloth wrapped around the head in various styles.
It is worn widely across South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa for both religious and cultural reasons. In Islam, the turban carries spiritual significance, being linked to the Prophet Muhammad.
Turbans have also crossed into global fashion, inspiring dramatic headwraps and high-fashion headpieces.
Tradition meets modern fashion
What’s striking about these headpieces is how easily they move between tradition and trend. None were originally created with fashion in mind — they emerged from faith, identity, and practicality. Yet their shapes, fabrics, and styling have influenced designers and everyday wearers worldwide.
From the kufi’s resemblance to the modern beanie, to the taqiyah’s minimalist appeal, to the ghutra’s graceful drape echoed in scarves and wraps, these pieces show how culture quietly shapes global style.
They remind us that the fashion industry doesn’t invent trends from thin air — it often draws inspiration from heritage and tradition.
A living fashion statement
To call these headpieces “fashion statements” is not to take away their deeper meaning. Instead, it is to recognise that they are living traditions — garments that carry faith, culture, and pride, while also being undeniably stylish.
They prove that fashion doesn’t always start on the runway. Sometimes, it begins in communities, passed down through generations, and eventually finds its way into both everyday wardrobes and high fashion.
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