we lived in Damascus Syria in the late 80’s.
I was covered up (long pants, long sleeves) to walk my dog, but the men there thought I was “available” because I held my head up and looked ‘em in the eye when I was out in public.
Looking back, I guess my mistake was daring to go out in public and drive alone. But sometimes, a lady just has to go to the doctor or the store and can’t take an entourage with her! Middle Eastern women travel in packs everywhere. It’s to protect their “honor,” doncha know. But I am independent and like to to things alone, so I guess I “asked for it.” (sarc)