The Ruling on a Woman Wearing Short or Light Clothing in Front of Her Mahrams

Question:
From northern Yemen, a message has reached the program from our sister (M. A. S.). Our sister has a collection of questions. In her first question, she asks: Is it permissible for a woman to wear a short or light garment in front of her mahrams?

Answer:
She should not do that. She should stay away from the causes of fitnah (trial, discord or temptation). She should wear a covering, long garment so that she does not fall into fitnah or cause others to fall into fitnah. This is because some of the mahrams may be tempted by it. There may be an open sinner among them. Therefore, it is not permissible for her to be lax in this matter. She should be modest among her mahrams, whether they are brothers, uncles, maternal uncles, or nephews. She should be modest, wearing good, decent, covering clothing that is not short, in order to stay away from the causes of fitnah. There is no harm in them seeing part of her head, such as her face, hands, and feet. There is nothing wrong with that, provided she covers the rest of her body to avoid danger and fitnah. This is especially true in this age, where knowledge has decreased and faith has weakened, except for those whom Allah wills, and where the causes of fitnah have multiplied.
Therefore, the believing woman should be careful to maintain covering and modesty, even with her mahrams, so that she does not fall into fitnah or cause them to fall into fitnah. May Allah grant everyone success and safety. Yes.

The presenter: O Allah, amen. May Allah reward you with good.