Women's Dress in Iran Before the Revolution: Traditional Versus Western Influences

The question of how women dressed in Iran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution is multifaceted and complex. It is essential to understand that while some women embraced Western-style clothing, many others adhered to traditional attire, often influenced by religious beliefs and cultural norms.

Introduction to Women's Fashion in Iran Pre-Revolution

Before 1979, Iran was a country undergoing significant social and cultural changes, which impacted its citizens, including women. The country had a diverse blend of modern and traditional elements, with a small but growing Western influence that challenged the long-standing traditional values. This period saw a coexistence of traditional clothing like the chador and more Western-style dress among various segments of the population.

Western Influences on Women's Clothing

Some women in urban areas and cities like Tehran, Esfahan, and Mashhad were among the first to adopt Western clothing. This was facilitated by the cosmopolitan nature of these cities, which had stronger exposure to Western culture through education, media, and social interactions. Fashion trends included simple Western dresses, pants, and blouses. Shops like Midan and Ghasr in Tehran began selling ready-made Western clothing, meeting the demand for new styles.

Traditional Attire and Religious Influence

Other women, particularly those from more conservative backgrounds or religious families, retained traditional clothing. The chador, a full body veil, was a prominent feature in Iran before the revolution. It was often worn over a more modest abaya or loose, flowing robes. Other traditional garments included the aba (a long coat), juyban (a loose-fitting blouse), and wagdi (a headscarf).

Personal Experiences: My Grandmother

A personal anecdote can provide a vivid illustration of the diverse practices among Iranian women. My grandmother, a devout religious woman, always wore the chador when leaving the house. Born before the revolution, she exemplifies the traditionalist mindset that heavily prioritized religious adherence and cultural norms. Her choice of attire was symbolic of her belief in maintaining Turkey's historical and cultural heritage, as she was partial to Ottoman influences, which often included the chador as part of their dress code.

Social and Cultural Context

The social and cultural context of this period was crucial in shaping women's fashion choices. The reformist government of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, known as the Shah, had a significant role in modernizing Iran. Initiatives like the White Revolution aimed at modernizing various aspects of society, including a push towards more Western fashion styles. These reforms sometimes resulted in a clash between traditionalists and modernizers, particularly among women.

Interaction and Shifts in Fashion Trends

The interactions between traditional and Western clothing were not simply a clash, but also a period of gradual change. Influences like music, movies, and education gradually introduced new ideas and fashion styles. This shift was most apparent in urban areas, where the younger generation was more exposed to these influences and adopted Western clothing styles. The film industry, especially productions like Children of the Arez and City of Joy, also played a role in shaping public perceptions of Western wear.

Conclusion: Coexistence of Traditions and Influences

Before the 1979 Revolution, women in Iran experienced a dynamic interplay between Western influence and traditional attire. While some women embraced new styles, many retained their traditional clothing out of cultural and religious adherence. The period was marked by a significant social transformation, and while the revolution marked a definitive shift in the role of women and fashion, it laid the groundwork for the coexistence of these distinct cultural elements.

Further Reading and Resources

For those interested in learning more about women's fashion in Iran before the revolution, the books Women in Iranian Cinema: Restoring the Alleyway by Sara Fitz and Beyond the Veil: Women in Iran by Minoo Moallem offer comprehensive insights. Additionally, documentaries like The Iranian Women Foundation and The Year of the Walkout provide visual representations of the social and cultural landscape of this transformative era.