Iran presents 'Islamic haircut catalogue'
Islamic Republic's culture ministry releases pictures of appropriate male: Short hair – in, ponytails – out
The catalogue was presented by ministry officials in a press conference ahead of the "Modesty and Veil Festival". It includes pictures of men sporting short and conservative haircuts, some styled with gel.
"These hairstyles are inspired by the Iranians' complexion, culture and religion, and Islamic law," said Jaleh Khodayar, who is in charge of the festival, which will be held later this month. "We are happy that the government has backed us in designing these hairstyles."
Presenting hairstyles
The move, which is being implemented together with the University of Tehran and the local association of barbers, is to distribute the permitted haircuts for men in the Islamic Republic, "in order to avoid inappropriate hairstyles and encourage an Islamic culture.
The catalogue was distributed in accordance with a clothing law approved by the Iranian parliament four years ago at the start of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's first term as president.
Iranian police occasionally raid barber's shops offering 'Western hairstyles". Their owners are warned or "guided" and must commit not to repeat their actions.
Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran has adopted the Sharia – the sacred law of Islam, which commands women to cover themselves with a veil called "hijab". Men, on the other hand, must have a proper haircut and are not allowed to wear a tie or walk around in shorts.
- Follow Ynetnews on Facebook
