Balaclavas have been trending on TikTok all winter long, and young Islamic women are shedding light on the history behind wearing headpieces. As young people gear up for winter, a new-ish fashion trend has emerged on TikTok as users share how to fashionably style a scarf like a balaclava, which is a head / face covering that protects hair and skin from extreme weather conditions. #Balaclava counts over 150M views on TikTok, and some of the most-viewed clips are from young (mostly white) fashion / style enthusiasts sharing how to achieve the balaclava look with a scarf or similar material. And while the trend is meant to show people how to be fashionable even in the brutal winter months, Islamic fashion enthusiasts are calling out how the balaclava is being praised for the same reasons hijabs are often criticized. TikToker @malihaness shared a video explaining how Black men and Muslim women have historically been the target of hate crimes for wearing hoodies, hijabs, or other head coverings. Meanwhile, @subwaytattoo (who wears a hijab) explains that people from all backgrounds are welcome to wear balaclavas because they’re meant to be comfy, warm, and stylish, but it’s important to keep in mind the religious background and history of wearing a headpiece. The fashion trend has certainly encouraged Muslim fashionistas like @subwaytattoo to celebrate their personal style, but as the trend continues evolving this winter it’s important to understand the context unfolding on TikTok. (Teen Vogue, CNN)