Chara Scroope
June 12, 2025
Contents
Clothing is one of the many ways people express their identity, especially their religious identity. In this article, we go through some of the general reasons people wear religious clothing. We also discuss a few common clothing and accessories worn, how often people wear religious dress, and why religious dress matters for your workplace.
The reasons for wearing religious clothing differ from person to person. Some of the reasons why people wear religious attire include:
There is no one single universal reason why people wear religious clothing. People also tend to have multiple factors informing their decisions. Just like every religion is diverse in terms of practices and beliefs, people may have differing perceptions and choices.
There are many different articles of clothing or accessories that can have religious meanings, from garments and jewellery to hair and tattoos. For example, headwear is a common article of religious clothing that can take various styles and forms. Some religions suggest or encourage the covering of the head or hair for either female adherents, male adherents or both (such as in Orthodox Judaism, Islam and Sikhism).
The type of head covering can differ depending on a number of factors. For example, for Muslim women, the type of head covering worn often depends on the region or culture someone is from, as well as personal choice or familial expectations. Common types of headscarves include a hijab (a veil that covers the head, hair and neck while showing the face and sometimes the hairline) and an amira (a two-piece veil consisting of a close-fitting cap and a tube-like scarf).
Jewellery is another accessory that may have religious or spiritual significance. For example, many religions have important symbols that feature on the pendant of a necklace, such as a cross or crucifix (Christianity), the Star of David (Judaism), the om symbol (Hinduism) or an image of the Buddha (Buddhism). Some people may wear accessories that have spiritual significance, such as crystals or amulets.
Tattoos can also have religious meanings. For example, some Buddhists may have a tattoo containing sacred Buddhist geometrical, animal and deity designs along with Buddhist phrases. Another example is the cultural and spiritual significance of tattoos in many Polynesian cultures.
Religion can sometimes also influence choices about appearance and presentation, such as hair. For some men, facial hair may be encouraged or expected. One example is in Islam; some consider growing a beard to follow in the example of the Prophet Muhammad. Others regard growing a beard as a mandatory requirement of their faith. Meanwhile, in Sikhism, it is common practice for men to maintain uncut hair (known as kesh) and refrain from shaving their beards. To preserve a tidy appearance of their uncut hair, many Sikh men may wear a turban.
Choices about cosmetics, such as makeup, hair dye and nail polish may also be influenced by religious factors. People may avoid wearing some or any cosmetics as a way to maintain a natural or modest appearance. Some may also abstain from using cosmetics during certain days or religious obligations. For example, some Orthodox Jewish women choose not to wear makeup during Shabbat.
Some people may wear religious clothing and accessories all the time. Others may wear particular religious attire only during certain times of day, week and year or depending on their location. For example, some people only wear a head covering when visiting their place of worship (such as a synagogue or mosque) or when performing certain rituals. Some may wear religious clothing when in public spaces, or when in the presence of people from the opposite gender. This means that people may need to wear religious attire while at work.
It is important to note that discriminating against an employee because of their religious attire, accessories or tattoos can amount to unlawful discrimination. This can include forcing someone to take off or conceal the clothing item (including tattoos) in situations where such clothing does not present a workplace health and safety concern.
Dress codes, guidelines and policies that are sensitive and considerate of religious and ethnic diversity play a vital role in creating an inclusive workplace. Fair and flexible dress codes and uniform policies allow employees to meet their religious or cultural obligations, while also complying with workplace policies and health and safety requirements.
There are a number of ways your workplace can be more inclusive towards religious clothing or attire in the workplace. For instance, employees should be given the opportunity to offer feedback and suggestions on company dress guidelines. Another example is accommodating options for modest dress, such as head coverings, into company uniforms (if they are required).
Ultimately, the employer and employees should work together to make accommodations that are both reasonable for the company, but also respectful of the needs and beliefs of individuals. Allowing employees the opportunity to voice their needs and concerns can help ensure uniform policies and dress guidelines are informed by the people who they affect.