Is It Permissible to Wear Traditional Clothing From Other Cultures in Islam?
Question
Assalamualaikum. Is wearing kimono or any other traditional cloths if a different country which is not recognised as a Muslim country , imitiating kuffar , if yes , does it also apply to the one born in that country . And is applying kohl like how ancient Egyptians wore it , permissible , just for fashion .
Islamic Ruling & Answer
Walekumussalam,
(1) If a type of clothing is not a symbol of a specific non-Muslim religious ritual or belief, but is simply a cultural or traditional dress (such as a kimono), then wearing it is not considered impermissible imitation of disbelievers in itself. Likewise, a person who is born in that country may wear the common clothing of their region, provided that the clothing does not go against Islamic guidelines.
(2) Applying kohl to the eyes is generally permissible and is even a Sunnah. If someone applies it merely for adornment or fashion, and not with the intention of following any false religious practice or belief, then there is room for it. However, men and women should still observe the proper Islamic etiquettes and limits.
Answered by
Mufti Tosif Qasmi
March 07, 2026 ยท Updated June 21, 2026
Researched & verified under our editorial & answer-review policy.
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