in accordance with the Sunnah to assign white clothing to protected non-Muslims and dyed clothing—such as honey-yellow, dark gray, and the like—to Muslims. Rather, the reverse is the case. The same applies to hair and other matters.
How much more, then, does this apply to men’s and women’s clothing! Its purpose is not merely differentiation; due regard must also be given to screening and concealment. Likewise, the purpose is not merely to screen and cover women without distinguishing them from men. Differentiation is itself intended, such that, even if both sexes wore clothing that covered and screened them, they would be forbidden to do so if their clothing became indistinguishable.
Allah Most High has also made this purpose clear in His words:
“O Prophet, tell your wives, your daughters, and the women of the believers to draw their outer garments over themselves. That is more likely that they will be recognized and not harassed.”
He thus made their being recognized by distinctive clothing an intended objective. This is why the prohibition is expressed in terms of imitation, in the words of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace:
“Allah has cursed women who imitate men and men who imitate women.”
He also said: “Allah has cursed effeminate men and those who adopt masculine ways among