Bismillah
To bring it more clearly, at the time of the Messenger prayer and peace be upon him, women dress code was adopted on a universal level. It was not an option. However, now except with Saudi Arabia and I think Afghanistan and Iran (not sure if they are still applying this), it became an option a choice the Muslim woman makes. Thus, the society usually looks in a very special manner to one who chooses to abide by it, placing her in a high rank, expecting much from her. Whereas, she just abided by what Allah Commanded her in terms of appearence.
