As modest wear goes mainstream, the world is waking up to the possibilities of elegantly covered-up silhouettes that never compromise on style. For those wondering how to dress modest and classy, inspiration can be found everywhere from the runways of Modest Fashion Week Dubai to a modern crop of modest fashion influencers on Instagram.
Vogue Arabia, May 2023. Photo: Youssef Oubahou
In recent times, the world of modest fashion has received further impetus by influential voices, such as Halima Aden who concluded a three-year hiatus by returning to the cover of Vogue Arabia. “It’s easy for people to have misconceptions of Muslim females when they only see on the news very extreme examples of women in a hijab. We are not oppressed. We have dreams and ambitions, and we make mistakes. We’re human, we’re not perfect, we’re flawed. We are so misunderstood…,” she shared in a heartfelt moment of honesty. The ripples of this tidal wave can be felt across the spectrum, as modest dressers have more role models to look up to than ever before, from politician Ilhan Omar to Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad.
Instagram.com
Need further proof? Look no further than the season’s most-coveted runways that have been leaning towards layered ensembles that align neatly with the ethos of modest fashion. Off-White’s pre-fall 2024 lineup offered its signature playful take on street style with creative headgear, while Naeem Khan’s high necklines place the focus on colors and craftsmanship.
Off-White pre-fall 2024
Naeem Khan pre-fall 2024
What is modest fashion?
Simply put, modest wear for ladies translates into outfits and silhouettes that offer minimal display of skin. The reasons for the same can range from religious and cultural values to a certain penchant for ease and comfort. The world’s awakening to modest fashion comes at a time when movements like quiet luxury and Scandi minimalism are also corresponding with creative layering and modest…
