Storefronts in Iran may not display curvy mannequins, or those that sport neckties. Police in Iran have redoubled efforts to ensure the mannequins don’t appear “Western.”

hijab dummies




In a state-run newspaper, Iranian authorities under Mahmoud Ahmadinejad issued a reminder to store owners that they must not display mannequins that wear underwear, or that show womanly curves. The dummies are also supposed to have proper headscarves in keeping with Islamic Hijab.

It said, in part: “Using unusual mannequins exposing the body curves and with the heads without hijabs are prohibited to be used in the shops.”

The message also stated that they shouldn’t wear neckties because it is considered a Western style. It even went so far as to say that men can’t even sell women’s underwear in stores.

As Ahmadinejad attempts to beat off Western influence with a stick, he still faces criticisms of a rigged election. Angry citizens protested in the streets following his “re-election” earlier this year, a victory many felt belonged to the reformists. Ever since, these sort of initiatives have been popping up, which some say is a sign that his government may be trying to further suppress any dissent.

From an American perspective it seems utterly absurd for the government to strong-arm shop owners by telling them what they can and can’t display. I don’t think it’s too ethnocentric of me to suggest that the actions of the regime are a bit oppressive, is it?

The message also seems to be turning the citizens on each other. The Associated Press reports that it also suggested that those who violate the ban should be confronted to ensure that Iran is “safeguarding religious values and the Islamic revolution.”

What do you think about Iran’s ban on curvy mannequin’s and neckties? Give us your thoughts in the comments section below.

I also included a video interview with the president of Iran below.