What may a widow not do during mourning (ihdad)?

Throughout the ʿiddah of death, a widow must observe ihdad, that is, forgo adornment. Things to avoid: wearing perfume, make-up and kohl for adornment, henna, brightly coloured clothes worn for adornment, and jewellery. The widow should also stay at the home where she was when her husband died, and not spend the night elsewhere without need. She also may not receive an explicit proposal or marry during this period. Things that are permitted: bathing, combing her hair, wearing ordinary clean clothes, speaking to non-mahram men when needed, and answering the phone. Ihdad is only for a husband; mourning for the death of anyone else does not exceed three days.