Can Men Sell Women’s Silk Clothing or Silk Upholstery

Answered by Shaykh Faraz A. Khan

Question: From my understanding, wearing silk is impermissible for men and also selling silk based men’s wear items (such as ties etc.) are impermissible.
However can men buy & then sell women’s clothing made from silk (example: silk scarves etc.)? Also how about men buying and/or selling bed linen, curtains, etc. (upholstery) made of silk?

Answer: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah,

I pray this finds you in the best of health states.

Yes, men may sell women’s silk clothing (since it can be worn by women). Men may also sell silk upholstery, since men (and a fortiori women) may use silk upholstery/rugs/etc according to Abu Hanifa. Men just can’t wear silk (with certain exceptions, such as embroidery or horizontal weaving). [Nahlawi, Durar Mubaha]

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Wearing silk and gold has been forbidden for the men of my community but is lawful for its women.” [Tirmidhi]

And Allah knows best.
wassalam
Faraz

Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani