Fatwa by: Former Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him)
Question:
What is the ruling on a woman praying in a thin veil through which her clothing is visible? Additionally, what is the ruling on wiping over thin silk socks?
Answer:
It is not permissible for a woman to pray in a thin veil, thin clothing, or thin socks. Prayer in such clothing is invalid. A woman should pray in a modest attire that completely covers her body, and through which the color of her body or the clothing underneath is not visible, as the entire body of a woman is considered ‘awrah (that which must be covered). Therefore, it is obligatory for her to cover her entire body during prayer, except for her face and hands. If she can also cover her hands, that is preferable. As for the feet, they must be covered during prayer with thick socks or a long garment.
Question:
What is the ruling on a woman praying in a thin veil through which her clothing is visible? Additionally, what is the ruling on wiping over thin silk socks?
Answer:
It is not permissible for a woman to pray in a thin veil, thin clothing, or thin socks. Prayer in such clothing is invalid. A woman should pray in a modest attire that completely covers her body, and through which the color of her body or the clothing underneath is not visible, as the entire body of a woman is considered ‘awrah (that which must be covered). Therefore, it is obligatory for her to cover her entire body during prayer, except for her face and hands. If she can also cover her hands, that is preferable. As for the feet, they must be covered during prayer with thick socks or a long garment.