Iran Approves "Islamic" Hair Styles for Men, and Cleric Blames Women for Earthquakes

Iran's Islamic regime has issued new grooming standards for men this week, as reported by CNN.com.

There are several styles, which are now restricted by the current regime, that were previously allowed-the pompadour, made famous by the artist, Prince; the short in front, long in back mullet; and the ponytail.

The styles now approved by the government are primarily the 1950s short style; however, a slicked-back gel-look made popular in the 1980s is also acceptable.

CNN.com also reported that these "Islamic" haircuts were designed based upon facial structure and local cultures and, according to Jaleh Khodayar, the secretary of the Hijab and Chastity Festival, the hair styles are "a mixture of our traditions and Iranian culture, as well as the latest fashions and by doing so confront the cultural assault by the West" on Iran.

Britain's Telegraph reported that barbershops in Iran have been shut down and fined in the past for offering haircuts that are not in compliance with Islamic law.

Iranian police are tasked with carrying out "morality checks," arresting men who spike their hair or wear tight jeans. The wearing of ties is also considered "a symbol of Western decadence" and firmer action has been taken against those who dress immodestly, according to the government's ruling.

Women are not unaccustomed to these regular checks, being arrested for immodesty by wearing coats that are too short or scarves that are too flimsy, as determined by the fashion police.

By wearing clothing deemed immodest or behaving in a manner considered promiscuous by set standards, women are blamed for the behavior of young men, societal immorality, and natural disasters.

FOX News.com reported earlier this year that senior Iranian cleric, Hojatoleslam Kazem Sedighi, was quoted by Iranian media as saying, "Many women who do not dress modestly...lead young men astray, corrupt their chastity and spread adultery in society, which (consequently) increases earthquakes."

Women are required by Islamic law to be covered completely, but some ignore the stricter codes and show more of their hair or wear tighter coats.

Sources:
CNN.com
Telegraph.co.uk
FOX News.com