What advice would you give to a committed 17-year-old friend who wishes to wear a shoulder abaya, but her mother refuses, citing her young age, knowing that she studies at university, and how can she convince her mother without angering her?

The hijab is an obligation upon women to preserve their chastity and dignity, and it has legal conditions. If the mother's attire is not in accordance with Islamic law, then it is not permissible to obey her. However, if it is in accordance with Islamic law, there is no harm in the daughter increasing her modesty, but it is preferable to obey the mother. The daughter must be dutiful to her mother and keen on modesty and shyness, and the mother must help her daughter in that, because her adherence to hijab and covering is among the causes of her happiness. The daughter should explain this to her mother gently, and seek help from Allah and from righteous women. Mixed universities should be avoided except out of necessity, while adhering to Islamic regulations.