Clothing Requirements?

[elixa]

I saw a Muslim lady in the shops today & she had her hijab on (is that right? her head scarf?) but also had her full arms & legs covered. I was thinking that this lady must've been so hot as it's pretty close to 30deg here today. Which made me wonder, is it part of a Muslim woman's clothing requirements to have their full body covered when they are out & about?

hi just wanna add my 10 cents worth

As a convert to Islam, i find that i feel cooler in the Aussie hot weather covering up as opposed to before my singlet days. I found the answer all in the type of fabric one wears, and i wear this loose, light cotton fabric (non see thru), which is very breathable and keeps me cooler when out and about. I think that it stops sun rays from penetrating my skin. My doctor also mentioned i am at a low risk of skin cancer which is a bonus as being fair skinned was worried about it. I also get my vitamin D daily supply when doing regualur stuff around the house like gardening, putting out clothes or just walking in the garden...no probs but as the other posters mentioned already the spiritual and religous reasons of covering, i wont go into it.