2023 has granted us a year of defining trends and sweeping fashion phenomena. Microtrends have spanned from fruit-centred aesthetics (Tomato and Strawberry Girl), pop culture inspired Barbiecore and Mermaidcore, and then came the attainment of the quiet luxury aesthetic. Meanwhile, subdued trends have coasted alongside these and presented us with some of the most elevated styles of clothing.

Although the styles reinforced on the catwalk have been varied, the consensus for 2023 fashion is that extended hemlines are in and the notion of modest dressing is here to stay. What the micromini was to 2022, the maxi is to ’23. The styles introduced have included sweeping denim skirts, generous swathes of silk and free-flowing tailored trousers. Womenswear has become sleek and occasion-forward—from the fluidity and lustre of bias-cut dresses to longline waistcoats matched with full-circle skirts. Modest fashion has been celebrated by Islamic women for years and it’s now widely recognised for its stylistic references and refinement. Referring to less skin-bearing styles, it birthed a plethora of demure necklines—cowl, boat-neck, and rippled fabrics.

I’ve pulled six inspirational outfits from our Instagram favourites—from maxi skirts and blazer pairings to imaginative ways to elevate a poplin shirt. As we head towards autumn and the temperatures drop, these looks will undoubtedly come into their own and work on rotation in our wardrobes. I, for one, can't wait. Scroll on to discover the six modest autumn outfits I'm re-creating this season.

1. Wrap Cardigan + Linen Trousers

Style Notes: Tones will inevitably get darker as the seasons change but there's something statement about wearing natural fabrications in said tones. It's slightly moody whilst retaining the nonchalent character of linen and cotton. Stretch your wear out of these pieces until we have to bundle up.

Shop the Look:

2. White Shirt + Full Skirt + Slingback Heels

Style Notes: Floaty lengths, tick. Crisp tailoring, tick, and bold jewels, tick. Sylvie's look is one after my heart and an ensemble I'd likely wear in five years time.

Shop the Look:

3. Relaxed Blazer + Linen Skirt + Flats

Style Notes: Mira is the Queen of fashion forward modest outfits. Here, she juxtaposes textiles for a transitional look you can wear from now.

Shop the look:

4. Relaxed Polo T-shirt + White Maxi Skirt + Heeled Boots

Style Notes: Make like Marilyn and don a neutral toned extended hemline look as we usher towards autumn. The natural fabrications and pale colourways are less common in the cooler months but it makes this look all the more inspiring.

Shop the look:

5. Tailored Trousers + T-Shirt + Mules

Style Notes: Anne-Victoire demonstrates the appeal of pairing simple elements together. The individual components are pared-back but together it creates a sleek uniform.

Shop the look:

6. High Neck Maxi Dress 

Style Notes: This is my favourite dress style this year. I adore the impact of a high neckline maxi dress with a streamlined silhouette. Just add a bag and pumps and you're set for the evening.

Shop the look:

Next Up: I'm Anti-Trend But These New-Season Items Work With My Autumn Capsule Wardrobe

As someone who dresses modestly, fall happens to be my favorite season. With all the layering possibilities and cozy fashion picks, there's a lot to love about the season. Before you know it, winter will be heading straight for us, so I'm determined to get the most I can out of my wardrobe right now. I've been adding looks to my mood board and thought I'd share them so you can put them on your radar, too. I tend to gravitate toward different styles, so expect everything from tonal looks to bright-hued ensembles.

Keep scrolling for 10 outfit ideas you'll definitely be inspired by this season. Soon, your chic outfits might be covered with puffer jackets and thick wool coats, so make sure to take notes and act quickly.

You can't go wrong with a coordinating suit. Opt for an oversize fit and tonal accessories to polish it up.

I'm green with envy for this outfit. I've been thinking about suit vests so much that I lost track of oversize ones, but they're definitely back on my radar.

Printed sets may look like pajamas, but that doesn't mean they can't be stylish. Just throw a leather blazer on top and pull on your favorite comfy sneakers.

Shacket weather doesn't last very long, so you should appreciate it while its here.

Cardigan sets don't have to stop there—add dimension by layering a T-shirt underneath for extra warmth.

The key to making a neutral outfit not boring? Many, many layers.

Pleated skirts are a staple that seems to come back around every season. To make a skirt more fall-friendly, layer a leather top over it and keep the last few buttons open.

Slip skirts are a summer savior, but they work great for the fall, too. Whether the color is bright or subdued, a cropped cardigan will make it fit perfectly with the chilly weather.

A ribbed-knit skirt is the cozy yet stylish essential you'll be able to rely on heavily this season. Dress it down with a sweater or up with a wrap top and matching accessories.

If you're stuck on how to incorporate a bold hue into your outfit, try going monochrome. 

Next, 7 Fall Color Combos That'll Make You Look Truly Innovative

As a modest dresser, autumn just happens to be my favorite season. While I've figured out the formula to layering in the warmer months, I love the ease of throwing on a blazer or cardigan without having to worry about sweating. While I like to add a few trendy pieces to my closet each season, it's the staples that I've been prioritizing. I keep them on rotation more often, and they make my more out-there pieces much easier to style. If you're someone who is always down for a statement piece, it's important to invest in simple items that you can style your fun pieces around. It's all about balance.

Below, I've rounded up the items that I've been shopping (and wearing) as September approaches. I've included a variety of price points and styles, so you have plenty of options to choose from. Keep scrolling for your fashion download.

Loose Trousers

I can't stress enough how important loose trousers in your most-worn colours are. While I love a denim or printed moment, it's the staple trousers that I come to rely on again and again. Don't be afraid to play around with the texture or silhouette as I did with this plissé pair.

Shackets

Shockingly, I didn't own a shacket till this year. I always thought they'd make me look bulky, but I was wrong. They have the perfect boxy-but-structured look, and I love how you can wear them as a top or open them up over a T-shirt. It just looks so polished, don't you think?

Vests

Vests are no longer a trend in my book. They're a full-on wardrobe staple. Knit or suited, I love them. They're perfect for modest dressing because they can provide coverage if I'm wearing a fitted top or dress underneath and if I want an extra layer but don't want to put on a jacket.

Oversize Blazers

If you haven't found the perfect blazer, your search has come to an end. Many retailers have finally perfected the loose silhouette of your dreams, so if there's any time to get your hands on one, it's now. You can opt for neutral tones or leather with a pop of colour if you really want to dive in.

Knit Sets

I was recently told my style is described as "cozy and cool," and I'm proud to hold such a title. My secret? Finding comfortable pieces in sophisticated silhouettes, like a button-down knit set. 

As a modest dresser, fall just happens to be my favorite season. While I've figured out the formula to layering in the warmer months, I love the ease of throwing on a blazer or cardigan without having to worry about sweating. (If you're from New York, however, the subways will always remind you of the heat.) While I like to add a few trendy pieces to my closet each season, it's the staples that I've been prioritizing. I keep them on rotation more often, and they make my more out-there pieces much easier to style. If you're someone who is always down for a funky piece, it's important to invest in simple items that you can style your fun pieces around. It's all about balance.

Below, I've rounded up the items that I've been shopping (and wearing) as fall approaches. I've included a variety of price points and styles, so you have plenty of options to choose from. Keep scrolling for your fall fashion download.

Loose Trousers

I can't stress enough how important loose trousers in your most-worn colors are. While I love a denim or printed moment, it's the staple trousers that I come to rely on again and again. Don't be afraid to play around with the texture or silhouette as I did with this plissé pair.

Shackets

Shockingly, I didn't own a shacket till this year. I always thought they'd make me look bulky, but I was wrong. They have the perfect boxy-but-structured look, and I love how you can wear them as a top or open them up over a T-shirt. It just looks so polished, don't you think?

Vests

Vests are no longer a trend in my book. They're a full-on wardrobe staple. Knit or suited, I love them. They're perfect for modest dressing because they can provide coverage if I'm wearing a fitted top or dress underneath and if I want an extra layer but don't want to put on a jacket.

Oversize Blazers

If you haven't found the perfect blazer, your search has come to an end. Many retailers have finally perfected the loose silhouette of your dreams, so if there's any time to get your hands on one, it's now. You can opt for neutral tones or leather with a pop of color if you really want to dive in.

Knit Sets

I was recently told my style is described as "cozy and cool," and I'm proud to hold such a title. My secret? Finding comfortable pieces in sophisticated silhouettes, like a button-down knit set. 

Shop more modest picks:

When Uniqlo launched its first collection with British Japanese designer Hana Tajima in 2015, I remember taking a trip to the NYC flagship just to see the pieces up close. There wasn't the plethora of modest fashion you see today when I was a teenager, so as a modest dresser, I would look for the outfits of icons like Tajima and Yuna on Tumblr and save them for fashion inspiration. Fast-forward to 2021, Tajima's collaboration with Uniqlo is still going strong, and she's preparing for her latest drop. Her newest pieces are minimal and lightweight but are perfect for the warmer weather in palette and silhouette. 

Her collection launched today, and I got the chance to not only talk to the designer but also to try on a few of the pieces for myself. Her main goal was to make items that feel effortless, that you can throw on easily, and that have an elevated, no-fuss look. It can often be a tricky process to put together a modest outfit, so any piece that is designed to make that process easier is much needed. Consisting of muted tones and linen-blend fabrics, the pieces certainly will appeal to those who dress outside of modesty as well, even in the warmer weather. A wrap-around skirt, relaxed trousers, and delicate silk scarves all make for perfect additions to anyone's spring and summer wardrobe.

Below, you can find Tajima's thoughts on designing and a few of her expert tips for dressing modestly and creating her wardrobe. Keep scrolling to see the pieces I got to try out in the collection and to shop them. All I can tell you right now is that the pieces are as comfortable as they can get, and they certainly don't skip out on the design. 

You've been a long-time collaborator with Uniqlo. What inspires you to keep designing?

I started designing from a young age and haven't really stopped. There is something about the balance of art, function, and movement in each piece of clothing that keeps my mind fixated. For me, designing is much more about the process than the product. So in that way, it's about changing my approach, looking at different methods of construction to get a more adaptive fit, or exploring new and interesting fabrics.

I write about modest dressing quite a bit here on Who What Wear. Do you have any tips you'd like to share with readers who also dress modestly or want to explore the style?

I'm so glad women like you exist to help navigate a world that can sometimes seem daunting. When I became Muslim (16-ish years ago), I went from having a strong and distinct sense of my own style to being completely lost. I would try clothes that my Arab or Bangladeshi sisters would give me. Beautiful clothes, but it didn't feel like a style that belonged to me. Eventually, I started to scour vintage stores and make my own skirts and dresses. But it takes time and is always changing.

If in doubt, keep it simple. Find those staples you can rely on—a dress or shirt and pants—and build a wardrobe from there. Lastly, if you're working with loose silhouettes, you can still think about proportion. A lot of my pieces utilize unusual body seams to add subtle shapes. Texture and layers can also help when you're more covered. It helps to give depth and breaks up the line of the body a little.

Experiment and be patient and kind to yourself and your body. Allow yourself to dress in all sorts of styles, and eventually, you'll find yourself in there.

What’s your favorite piece from the current collection?

Perhaps the piece I've worn most are the linen-blend pants. I wanted to create a piece that was completely effortless. You can throw on a T-shirt and wear it all day without feeling over- or underdressed. Then, slip on the linen-blend jacket and a colorful heel and suddenly it's this elegant, unfussy head-to-toe look.

What do you keep in mind while designing clothing that's perfect for warmer weather but still modest?

Fabric is the best way to deal with the warmer weather. Your skin has to be able to breathe. Linen, cotton, and lyocell are all great for this, and other natural fibers, too. That and creating tailored silhouettes that sit away from the body just enough to let it feel airy. One detail that I've been developing is a kaftan-style sleeve that was based on a vintage detail I studied. It drops the armhole away from the underarm, giving more space and air. We used that construction on the Ramie blouse and linen-blend jacket.

The Try-On:

It's hard to find airy pants that still have a somewhat structural silhouette to them, but these ones meet those requirements exactly. I'll definitely be wearing these to the beach this summer.

The linen-blend wrap skirt is incredibly comfortable. I could see myself even putting it on to work from home. The skirt comes in three colors, but this cream version has to be my favorite. 

I love wearing blazers and end up dreading the end of spring and the start of summer because I have to let go of them. I won't have that feeling anymore because this blazer has the structural element that blazers bring while keeping you comfortable in the warm weather with its blend of linen. 

Shop More From Uniqlo:

Next, 12 Outfits to Try If the Only Pants You Wear Are Jeans (Yes, Even Skinny Jeans)

Back when I first started my path to modest dressing, the options weren't as vast as the market you see today. I was constantly taking things to the tailor, buying things a few sizes larger, and leaving shops in the summer frustrated and empty-handed. While there's still more space needed for modest-centered brands, shopping now is a much easier process (even in warmer climates). The latest trends consist of oversized silhouettes or creative layering, and I can take a look through a variety of designers' collections and find multiple looks I can imagine myself wearing.

I'm a market editor, so it's quite literally my job to keep up with what's new on the shopping scene and find the best of the best. If you're a modest dresser and want more brands to add to your radar, the list I've put together has got you covered. 

Louella

Founded by U.S. Olympic fencing medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad, Louella is a modest wear brand that creates easy-to-wear pieces that are not only stylish but provide comfort with loose and forgiving silhouettes.

ASOS Design

ASOS Design is a hotspot for clothing that covers at an affordable price point. It even provides a modest-wear category on the site and works with influencers like Shahd Batal to provide a capsule edit that properly suits the taste of modest dressers.

Nanushka

When I imagine my dream wardrobe, Nanushka items are in the mix. (Yes, I'm definitely manifesting this.) Everything the brand releases is always forward and luxe all while combining fun elements like bright colors and unique silhouettes. 

Madewell

If you're looking to upgrade your casualwear, Madewell is the place to be. Madewell meets the line of trends and basics with pieces you can wear every day but will never get bored of.

Lyra Swim

While it's easy to find a bikini almost anywhere, that's not exactly the case for modest swimwear. In comes Lyra Swim, a brand that has got you covered (literally) when it comes to swimsuits or apparel needed for the beach. 

Uniqlo x Hana Tajima

Hana Tajima is a UK-born modest designer and has been working with Uniqlo to release a collection every season. Her pieces are always filled with comfortable and breezy items that come in elevated neutrals like cream, rust, and sage green. The collection also often works with Airism, Uniqlo's innovative fabrics that have the technology to wick moisture and release heat, which is perfect for those who have to cover up in the warmer months. 

Rixo

Rixo designs special dresses that will never fail to bring you joy. (Just looking at them brings a smile to my face.) The brand has a variety of cuts that are perfect for modest dressing, all while mixing in pops of prints and colors that you won't stop cherishing anytime soon. 

Vela Scarves

L.A.-based designer Marwa Atik saw a gap in the fashion industry for hijabs that were comfortable and elevated, so she decided to fill it on her own terms. Vela Scarves not only creates the best scarves I've ever worn but also constantly pushes the boundaries with products that help modest dressers, like a hoop to style their scarves and matte magnets to hold your scarf in place. 

Ganni

Ganni is one of the brands that has constantly inspired me to be more creative with my layering, which, as a modest dresser, is something I rely on heavily. From its widely loved prints to its trend-forward details, Ganni reminds me that I don't have to sacrifice my maximalist style if I want to dress modestly.

The Frankie Shop

Consisting of a neutral color palette and minimal design, Frankie Shop makes investment-worthy wardrobe staples that you'll no doubt keep in your closet for years. 

As a modest dresser, I live for the colder weather, as it calls for a whole lot of layering. I can comfortably wear a sweater, blazer, jacket, and boots in bliss without looking like Joey Tribbiani from that one Friends episode (you know the one). When spring starts to approach, layering is still possible, but the weather for the most part brings warmer temperatures, so there are a few essentials I rely on to keep me both covered and comfortable. 

While I won't be layering heavy knits, most of my essentials consist of lightweight materials that can easily be worn together or separately. If you're also a modest dresser or are just looking for some ways to incorporate modest style into your spring wardrobe this year, then keep scrolling for my six go-to pieces. I've even included some outfit inspiration to show how I've styled them in seasons past so you can start planning your outfits right now.

1. Blazers

I'm going to miss my coats, but a lightweight blazer is the perfect additional layer to go over T-shirts. Instead of heavier wool, I tend to lean towards lighter options in the spring since the weather is still cool enough for a little layering.

2. Lightweight Coat

A trench coat is always deemed the perfect spring coat, and I didn't get the hype until I got my own. It feels so light but perfect on those days when there's a little breeze. Plus, it goes with almost anything, trust me on that one.

3. Airy Blouses

Airy blouses are always my savior in the warmer months, as they pair easily with jeans or wide-leg pants when I'm not in the mood to do too much thinking for my outfit. I tend to prefer ones with interesting sleeves and detailing, but there are basic options on the market too.

4. Cardigans

Autumn and spring are my favorite months simply because I can throw on a cardigan and walk out the door. There are a variety of more lightweight ones now, which I love as much as chunkier knits.

5. Button-Ups

I steal button-downs from my dad's closet like it's my job. Can you blame me? They're so versatile. You can wear them as a breathable top over jeans or you can copy my personal favorite styling trick, which is to tie them over dresses for the perfect breezy layer.

6. Dresses

Dresses seem like an obvious option, but I still had to add it in here. If you're looking for comfortable dresses, try to look for fabrics like cotton or poplin instead of chiffon or viscose, which many tend to come in.

Next: our guide to the key trends for spring summer 2021. 

As a modest dresser, I live for the colder weather, as it calls for a whole lot of layering. I can comfortably wear a sweater, blazer, jacket, and boots in bliss without looking like Joey Tribbiani from that one Friends episode (you know the one). When spring starts to approach, layering is still possible, but the weather for the most part brings warmer temperatures, so there are a few essentials I rely on to keep me both covered and comfortable. 

While I won't be layering heavy knits, most of my essentials consist of lightweight materials that can easily be worn together or separate. If you're also a modest dresser or are just looking for some ways to incorporate modest style into your spring wardrobe this year, then keep scrolling for my six go-to pieces. I've even included some outfit inspiration to show how I've styled them in seasons past so you can start planning your outfits right now.

Blazers

I'm going to miss my coats, but a lightweight blazer is the perfect additional layer to go over T-shirts. Instead of heavier wool, I tend to lean towards lighter options in the spring since the weather is still cool enough for a little layering.

Lightweight Coat

A trench coat is always deemed the perfect spring coat, and I didn't get the hype till I got my own. it feels so light but perfect on those days when there's a little breeze. Plus, it goes with almost anything, trust me on that one.

Airy Blouses

Airy blouses are always my savior in the warmer months, as they pair easily with jeans or wide-leg pants when I'm not in the mood to do too much thinking for my outfit. I tend to prefer ones with interesting sleeves and detailing, but there are basic options on the market too.

Cardigans

Fall and spring are my favorite months simply because I can throw on a cardigan and walk out the door. There are a variety of more lightweight ones now, which tend to be my favorite as opposed to chunkier knits.

Button-Ups

I steal button-downs from my dad's closet like it's my job. Can you blame me? They're so versatile. You can wear them as a breathable top over jeans or you can copy my personal favorite styling trick, which is to tie them over dresses for the perfect breezy layer.

Dresses seem like an obvious option, but I still had to add it in here. If you're looking for comfortable dresses, try to look for fabrics like cotton or poplin instead of chiffon or viscose, which many tend to come in.

Next: 5 Casual Spring Dress Trends, and the Prettiest Styles to Try

More Modest Pieces I'm Loving

As a modest dresser, there were a number of hoops I had to jump through to be able to dress how I wanted to while growing up. Stores didn't offer the more relaxed silhouettes you see on their sites today, and without the high presence of social media like there is now, there was less awareness of smaller brands that were actually selling those kinds of clothing. Luckily today it's quite a different story. While there still is plenty more to be done, there's now a variety of trends that are coming down the runway that fit perfectly into my lifestyle, and you see more and more modest fashion folk being included in campaigns, shows, and the style scene in general. 

Although I love trends as much as the next person, I'm still a firm believer that despite the desire to hold onto anything fashion puts out, I will always prioritize choosing things to wear that keep me comfortable and will decide for myself what I want to wear, rather than trying to fit myself into every trend on the market. So instead of trying to follow every one, I picked through and found 8 that were my favorites and aligned most with how I feel comfortable dressing. If you're a modest dresser, or simply want to incorporate the style into more of your outfits, then you've come to the right place. From voluminous dresses to knit sets, I found myself saving tons of runway images to take outfit inspiration from this season.

Basic Maxis

Out of all the trends, this just might be my favorite and the most versatile. I own two and as of now, I've already worn both more than twice. You can wear them as is or pair them with a vest or jacket. 

Shop the trend:

Pant Layering

I have to admit, I was a bit hesitant to like this at first but I've slowly become a fan. In traditional Pakistani attire, it's common to layer long shirts/dresses with pants, so I don't see why I can't trickle the style into my everyday wardrobe as well. 

Volume

While sheer and cutout dresses took reign of the runways, what caught my eye this season was the extra volume added in dresses and skirts. It takes a simple piece to the next level and is great for those who want to stray from form-fitting pieces. 

Shop the trend:

Baggy Jeans

While I've always opted for more of a wide-leg fit on jeans, it wasn't till recently where I took the plunge into oversized baggy styles. I'm not sure why it took me so long because they're incredibly comfortable and I'm not sure If I'll go back to anything tighter. 

Hoodies

Hooded sweatshirts will always be in style, no doubt—but there's been a recent surge in taking the comfy item and elevating it with the styling whether it's over dresses or with sophisticated trousers and blazers. 

Wrap Skirts

Summer of last year may have been a top moment for wrap dresses, but I'm excited to see more of wrap skirts trickle into the fashion scene. I still love the dresses, but I think the skirts provide additional options with layering and styling. 

Shop the trend:

Knit Sets

With 2020 consisting of more people turning to comfort in their clothing, I'm not surprised that knit sets will be heading into this year as well. Who wouldn't want to keep these on? They make it easy to put together an outfit with minimal effort required. 

Shop the trend:

Relaxed Trousers

When I used to think of trousers, I used to think of typical office attire that I didn't find myself resonating with. What I didn't realize is that you can pair relaxed trousers with anything—even a graphic shirt or hoodie and it creates the perfect high-low ensemble. 

Shop the trend:

When I first started wearing a hijab, I was almost permanently attached to my black scarf, choosing to wear it over every outfit. There weren't many fashionable options that suited my taste on the market yet, so I often felt restricted with my creative level when it came to styling, and resorted to black as it was easy. I loved wearing my hijab, but never felt comfortable in a scarf—it was always too thick, too slippery, or it was ruined after one wash.

That all changed when I found Vela Scarves, a hijab brand based in California founded by Marwa Atik and her sister, Tasneem Atik. Vela designs and makes all scarves in-house, and they first caught my eye with their unique designs that featured prints and additional touches like zippers or ruffles. Marwa eventually moved towards the array of colors you see today, and within the past few years, I started spotting a plethora of girls wearing Vela and found girls on social media beginning to experiment more with colors and layering in their looks. And 99% of the time, they were wearing Vela. 

It's not only the brand's use of color that draws attention from so many modest dressers. Marwa often shares style tips on the brand's social media account, motivating girls to push the boundaries with how they layer and style themselves. Since we at Who What Wear love to report on the most innovative ways to dress, we decided to tap the mind behind the hijab brand and inquire not only about her tips for modest dressing but also the behind-the-scenes of her design process and campaign styling. Keep reading to hear what the Los Angeles–based designer has to say.

On starting Vela:

"I first started Vela on the design spectrum so think lots of ruffles, zippers, things that were more intricate and not done before, dating back to 2009. There wasn't a scarf out there that catered to hijabi women, Scarves today arent what they used to be, back then it was just pashmina scarves. Now, when you walk into a store like Nordstrom, you can find scarves when back in the day it was a mission. Vela started in an organic way, I was in school and was sketching when I should've been focusing on classes. My friend caught me sketching and told me that I needed to make it a reality. It's no secret that being a minority, you have imposter syndrome but I listened, went to Downtown L.A., picked out fabrics, sewed them with my aunt and they were an instant hit in my community. I saw a gap in the market and I filled it by creating pieces through my appreciation of fashion and to make a spot for myself in the industry."

On the design process:

"When it comes to designing, first, we forecast trends. The Vela girl is very fashion-forward and conscious so we make sure to dye the latest trend for the season, so when you’re shopping for a new outfit you already own a scarf that matches it. Next, when we have an idea of the colors we want, I always start out with the concept that it has to be complementary to your face. A hijab has to be one of the most important parts of your wardrobe, and I want the color to complement each skin tone so a girl can put it on and also feel good. Undertones are so crucial in the process. I go through so many sampling phases till we get the perfect color with the right tones because I want to pull the perfect color for each shade that will go with different skin tones. Every scarf is hand-dyed, and I'll keep bugging my team till we get it right."

"When it comes to printed scarves, we're very technical and like to think about where the pattern will measure on a girl's face. We want it to be as effortless and seamless as possible. We also like to think about ways we can innovate and push towards the future of fashion, which is always evolving. That comes true to the very scarf we created, which was the zipper edge scarf, and continues on to the day like with our Vela Hoop, which is seen as an accessory to the scarf in ways you can tie it in different ways." 

On styling campaigns:

"I don't think people understand how much goes into a campaign, because everything is a message. Marketing is very visual and people will translate what they're seeing into the message of the brand. We're not cookie cutter and try to push ourselves with every campaign, thinking about how we are going to empower women next. We want to take a scarf and make it more three dimensional and have it tell a deeper story because the scarf is not just a product, it's going to go on a Muslim woman, and we want the campaign to draw more focus to the women wearing the scarves. I also know that the stereotype of a Muslim woman is Arab, and I wanted to change that and show that there isn't one type of Muslim woman or Vela customer that exists. "

"Pair a tall boot with a midi skirt or dress, or an easy hack I love is wearing tube socks with sneakers. We always have that one skirt that we want to wear but it's shy of a few inches to meet our modesty requirement so doing this is an easy fix."

"I love to keep outfits streamlined by keeping my layers to a similar length. For example, I'll keep my cardigan the same length as the dress underneath."

"To add a jewelry look, I love to accessorize with the Vela Hoop which is our 'scarf jewelry' that helps keep your scarf in place and also creates new ways to wrap it."

"When I want to cover up my bodice, I love wrapping a square silk scarf around my top."

Check out more of Marwa's looks

Can't go wrong with a tonal look.

Fun sweater vests are the vibe for this season.

Keep warm in coordinating knits.

Next: I'm a Modest Dresser—Here's How I Master the Tricky Art of Layering

Shopping for modest clothing has always been a tad difficult, but if there's one store that continues to have my back, it's Zara. I still remember walking through its doors back when I was in high school and felt as if I had hit the jackpot when I found a plethora of key layering essentials that would make getting dressed in the morning much easier. Flash forward to today, the retailer's stock is better than ever—especially with their fall collections rolling into the stores. Think oversized blazers, chunky cardigans, and wide-leg trousers galore. Basically, everything you need for the colder temperatures, but also a modest dresser's gold mine.

Now I do love Zara, but I also know that the site can be a tad overwhelming to navigate, so I've decided to do the job for you and provide an edit of pieces that are not only trend-forward but modest fashion friendly. Even if you don't consider yourself a modest dresser, there will be something in this list you'll consider adding to your cart this fall. Keep scrolling to see the 25 Zara items I have on my wishlist right now. 

Shop my picks:

There’s no other way to put this other than the fact that finding modest clothing in the sea of what is today’s online shopping world is difficult. Sometimes I find myself scrolling for what seems like hours, only to give up as I get to the third page of items that I don’t see myself wearing. If you find yourself in the same predicament, you’re not alone. While brands like ASOS and Shopbop may have dedicated parts of their site with a curated selection of modest clothing, most sites still require a little bit of digging. (Okay, maybe a lot.) Luckily for you, it’s my job to help. And as someone who’s been doing this since before the industry took a step into the direction of making modest dressing easier, you could say I’m a little bit of an expert. 

Featuring a variety of price points, categories, and of course some of today's biggest trends, I searched high and low to find the best modest pieces on the market right now so you wouldn’t have to. Think smocked tops, printed midi skirts, and a plethora of silhouettes that are nonrestrictive and comfortable. What are you waiting for? Scroll below and start shopping.

As part of an ongoing partnership, British-born fashion designer Hana Tajima teamed up with Uniqlo to design a modest F/W 20 collection that was released last week. Her designs experiment with elegant silhouettes that are intentionally nonrestrictive and comfortable. Part of this comfort comes from the pieces themselves—the collection is stocked with items like breezy wide-cut pants, loose button-down tops, and flowy dresses in an array of rich neutrals such as sage green, cream, and rust. The other part comes in from Uniqlo’s innovative fabrics, such as Airism, which has the technology to wick moisture and release heat, all while providing UV protection. That technology is exactly how Tajima is able to design a layering piece like a turtleneck that can help you stay cool and that you can wear year-round.

Tajima’s collection for Uniqlo isn’t just about modest clothing, though. It’s about clothing that allows the person wearing it to express their identity and confidence. "We women are constantly adapting to change. I want clothing that is always a part of myself, items that are able to shift freely and easily from one style to something else,” Tajima said in a press release. "While retaining comfort, by focusing on form over decoration, I want these clothes to redefine what it is to be feminine. To let our own personal stories be the stories we wear.”

We spoke with Tajima to hear more about the collection and to answer some of the fashion questions she's asked about most. Ahead, learn about where she looks for design inspiration, her top styling tips, and the pieces she’s already wearing.

Where do you get inspiration for your designs?

"Long answer is that I’m really interested in the way that clothes are both the expression of something very esoteric and something outside of ourselves, but the form in which they present is this very tangible, human thing that we can all understand. And so the interplay of those two things is very exciting to me and very interesting because I do think that clothes are powerful. They can change the way we think and the way we think about ourselves. So that is the main inspiration on why I do what I do.

"But simple answer is that sometimes I’ll see someone with a sense of style that I think is really intriguing, and through the process of trying to figure out why I think it’s so interesting, that inspires me to want to make things.”

"This dress is an example of a method of construction I've been experimenting with."

Shop the look:

Which colours go well together?

"For colours that go well together, especially ones that you’re wearing, what you can do is either just go full-on head-to-toe in one colour—doesn’t matter how bright it is—you know it’s going to match because it’s the same colour. Or keep your base pretty neutral, so darks, blacks, and blues, with a pop of colour or neutrals with then a little pop of colour. Because if you just have a really neutral base with a little pop of colour, you know that’s going to work.”

"This set in this colour is something I’ve been wearing a lot. The texture of the cotton is dreamy.”

Shop the look:

What are your tips for dressing if you're shorter?

"Tips for dressing shorter—which I am—it’s really just about balance and proportion. So that might mean if you’re shorter, higher waistlines to give you a little extra length in your leg, but whatever size you are, whatever height you are, the most important thing is that your clothes fit you. So make friends with a tailor, find someone that you trust, someone that's really good at what they do, or learn to do it yourself."

"I love the structure of this jacket. It’s got some power.”

Shop the look:

Shop more pieces from the collection:

Next, see our guide to the key trends for autumn winter 2020.

As part of an ongoing partnership, British-born fashion designer Hana Tajima teamed up with Uniqlo to design a modest F/W 20 collection that was released today. Her designs experiment with elegant silhouettes that are intentionally nonrestrictive and comfortable. Part of this comfort comes from the pieces themselves—the collection is stocked with items like breezy wide-cut pants, loose button-down tops, and flowy dresses in an array of rich neutrals such as sage green, cream, and rust. The other part comes in from Uniqlo’s innovative fabrics, such as Airism, which has the technology to wick moisture and release heat, all while providing UV protection. That technology is exactly how Tajima is able to design a layering piece like a turtleneck that can help you stay cool and that you can wear year-round.

Tajima’s collection for Uniqlo isn’t just about modest clothing, though. It’s about clothing that allows the person wearing it to express their identity and confidence. "We women are constantly adapting to change. I want clothing that is always a part of myself, items that are able to shift freely and easily from one style to something else,” Tajima said in a press release. "While retaining comfort, by focusing on form over decoration, I want these clothes to redefine what it is to be feminine. To let our own personal stories be the stories we wear.”

We spoke with Tajima to hear more about the collection and to answer some of the fashion questions she's asked about most. Ahead, learn about where she looks for design inspiration, her top styling tips, and the pieces she’s already wearing.

Where do you get inspiration for your designs?

"Long answer is that I’m really interested in the way that clothes are both the expression of something very esoteric and something outside of ourselves, but the form in which they present is this very tangible, human thing that we can all understand. And so the interplay of those two things is very exciting to me and very interesting because I do think that clothes are powerful. They can change the way we think and the way we think about ourselves. So that is the main inspiration on why I do what I do.

"But simple answer is that sometimes I’ll see someone with a sense of style that I think is really intriguing, and through the process of trying to figure out why I think it’s so interesting, that inspires me to want to make things.”

"This dress is an example of a method of construction I've been experimenting with."

Shop the look:

Which colors go well together?

"For colors that go well together, especially ones that you’re wearing, what you can do is either just go full-on head-to-toe in one color—doesn’t matter how bright it is—you know it’s going to match because it’s the same color. Or keep your base pretty neutral, so darks, blacks, and blues, with a pop of color or neutrals with then a little pop of color. Because if you just have a really neutral base with a little pop of color, you know that’s going to work.”

"This set in this color is something I’ve been wearing a lot. The texture of the cotton is dreamy.”

Shop the look:

What are your tips for dressing if you're shorter?

"Tips for dressing shorter—which I am—it’s really just about balance and proportion. So that might mean if you’re shorter, higher waistlines to give you a little extra length in your leg, but whatever size you are, whatever height you are, the most important thing is that your clothes fit you. So make friends with a tailor, find someone that you trust, someone that's really good at what they do, or learn to do it yourself."

"I love the structure of this jacket. It’s got some power.”

Shop the look:

Shop more pieces from the collection:

Next, read about the seven jewelry trends we have our eye on for fall.

In a concert hall located on the Upper West Side of New York City, women from around the world huddled into a dark room where the air was filled with excitement and anticipation. It was the second year of Tory Burch Foundation’s Embrace Ambition Summit, and I was lucky enough to attend. While I’m no stranger to a summit—in this age, it seems as though a new summit or conference or festival is created every year—this one truly lived up to the hype. 

In fact, I walked away from the day thoroughly inspired because the panelists not only spoke eloquently but also walk the talk in their lives. And while the day was filled with incredible speakers, if I’m being honest, one speaker's presence on stage permeated beyond the mic, causing literal goosebumps, and that was model and activist Halima Aden. You may know her as the first model to wear a burkini on the cover of Sports Illustrated, but after hearing her speak, I knew there was so much more to this woman than that, and I had to hear more about her experience. Luckily for us, she agreed to talk to us about everything from her modeling career to modest fashion. Fair warning: Inspiration lies ahead…

For those who aren’t familiar with how you became a model, can you share a little bit of your story?

I competed in the 2017 Miss Minnesota USA pageant wearing a hijab and burkini, fully covered swimsuit, during the competition. While I didn’t win, I did generate international media attention, as no woman had before competed in a hijab and burkini. Immediately after, the pageant organizers were getting calls from Rihanna’s team to shoot with Fenty Beauty, Carine Roitfeld to shoot for CR Fashion Book (where I landed the cover of Issue 13), and IMG Models. It was a whirlwind and all happened so quickly. It was uncharted territory, as there had never before been a hijab-wearing model, so that came with a lot of unknowns and the need for conversations on how to best navigate with my agency, clients, and brands. I’m proud to say that just three years later, it is not uncommon to see a hijab-wearing woman on the runway or on a magazine cover.

What moment thus far has been the most surreal for you in terms of your career?

For me, there have been a few moments. I appeared on the cover of British Vogue, which had never before in its 102-year history showcased a woman wearing a hijab on the cover. What made that shoot especially wild is that another newcomer to the industry at the time, Adut Akech, and I realized we were born in the same exact refugee camp. My family was given the opportunity to resettle in America, while Adut’s resettled in Australia. Two refugees from the same Kenyan camp, reuniting on the cover of British Vogue… You can’t make that up. Another surreal moment, really a full-circle moment, was shooting for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. The burkini launched my career at the Miss Minnesota USA pageant, so a couple years later, to have the chance to be the first burkini-wearing woman in one of the most widely sold publications in the world was incredible. I’m a firm believer that a woman should be able to wear an itty-bitty bikini and be celebrated, and a woman wearing a modest burkini can stand right next to her and be celebrated. There’s room for all of us, and everyone deserves to feel beautiful.

In your opinion, why is it so important for young Muslim women everywhere to see someone like you on the cover of magazines or on the runway?

Growing up, I never saw anyone who looked like me represented positively in mainstream media. It’s important that young Muslim women everywhere see someone like me in these spaces to know that they too can be there. For me, I never knew a hijab-wearing Muslim woman could be a model because I never saw one before. I want young girls to know that if you don’t see yourself represented somewhere, be the one. If you aren’t invited to the table, pull up your own seat. Don’t be afraid to be the first, and don’t be afraid to do things on your own terms, your own way. The world will meet you where you stand.

You not only model, but you’re also an ambassador for UNICEF. Can you tell us a little about what you do for the organization? 

Being named a UNICEF ambassador has been a career highlight. As a former refugee child who was once on the receiving end of their services, I know firsthand the impact they make. UNICEF is responsible for providing children around the world with basic necessities like food, water, vaccines, access to an education, safe housing… I could go on and on. My favorite quote is, "A child in need knows no politics.” For me, it’s sharing my story and encouraging people that if we invest in our youth, all of them, they can go on to do big things and be successful.

I’ve had the opportunity to take field visits on behalf of UNICEF to see the work they are doing on the ground in places like Mexico, Kenya, and Italy. I’ve had the opportunity to speak to my state’s lawmakers on Capitol Hill on behalf of UNICEF to urge them to approve the appropriations necessary for UNICEF to continue to deliver a difference for children everywhere. Now, more than ever, with more children on the move, we need to do our part. Every two seconds, someone is displaced from their home. UNICEF has been putting children at the top of their agenda for decades, and I do my best to get anyone who will listen to me to support their vital work.

As you spoke to on the Summit stage, unfortunately we live in a time when what women choose to wear is still being criticized. France has even banned women from wearing burkinis to the beach. What would you say to these critics?

One of the hardest things for me to read about is women and young girls from Muslim communities drowning. And I admit that I never learned how to swim, as there was never a swimsuit growing up that allowed me to take lessons or join the school swim team. What I would say to the critics is, "Why in the world do you care what a woman wears to the beach or pool? It is made from swimsuit material and is just another form of swimwear.”

I can’t tell you the number of women who saw my spread in Sports Illustrated, who are not Muslim or even modest dressers necessarily, but said how excited they were as a skin cancer survivor to see a fully covered swimsuit option. Or receiving a message from a teenage girl, who again isn’t Muslim, who saw Sports Illustrated and reached out, happy to see a swimsuit that could hide her insecurities from an accident telling me she would now go swimming with her friends. Why anyone is banning anyone from a non-offensive wardrobe item, that can also be the difference between life or death in Muslims learning the basic life skill like swimming, is simply beyond me.

As a Muslim woman, what advice would you give to younger women who are witnessing the persecution and displacement of their community across the world?

I think we all, collectively as a human race, need to take it upon ourselves to get to know our neighbors. We need to start the conversations and learn about one another. At the end of the day, we all want the same things: to be happy, safe, healthy, successful. I think we will all find that we are more alike than we are different. I would encourage younger women in my community to lead the conversations, seek support from your fellow women, and continue to lift one another up.

More recently, you’ve helped produce a film. Tell us a little about it. What drew you to produce I Am You? And why is it important to see films that follow the experience of refugees?

The film was directed by a refugee and woman, Sonia Nassery Cole. We share a lot in common. When she told me about the project, I was hooked. Right now, the story is so timely, relevant, and important. It tells the story that refugees take in hopes to find safety. It leaves the viewer confused at times, which is exactly how a refugee feels. It makes the viewer want to turn away, as the stories are so true and painful. It is real life for so many people and deserves to be shared with a large audience. The big thing for me was to show people what it’s like for many refugees. Refugees don’t come to a new country to get a better job, to live with family members, or to seek new opportunities. No. Refugees have no other choice. It is to stay where I am and I will die, or risk everything in hopes of finding somewhere safe that will accept me. Please, please, please… Keep an eye out for the film to be streaming, and watch it!

How has your faith and your experience as a refugee inspired your approach to modest dressing? And what would you say the biggest misconception about modest dressing is?

Modest dressing isn’t a new thing. It has stood the test of time. I started dressing a certain way because the woman I most admired was dressing that way: my mom. I think we all try to emulate the people we most admire. Now, it’s how I’m most comfortable and how I feel my personal best. I think it’s a misconception that modest dressing is for a certain culture or religion. That’s simply not the case. Modest dressing has been around forever, and all groups of women have participated. It’s timeless. It also can mean something different to each individual woman; there is no one-size-fits-all. And it’s okay for a woman’s definition of modesty to change over time.

Are there any designers or brands you love to shop from for fun modest pieces?

There are so many. I had the chance to launch a Middle East capsule collection for Max Mara, and those pieces are so classy. I love shopping Max Mara’s runway looks. I also have felt incredible in pieces by Stella McCartney, Tommy Hilfiger, Fendi, and Etro. And, a shameless plug, I encourage you all to check out my scarf and turban collaboration collection with Modanisa, the largest modest e-tailer. It was important for me to create no-pin, no-tie turbans that you plop on your head and go for today’s busy, modern women. 

Shop some of Halima's turban collaboration:

On a day off, what does your beauty routine look like? Do you have a skincare routine or a go-to makeup look?

My African mama always said, "If you can’t put it in your mouth, don’t put it on your face.” When I’m not traveling, I enjoy a good aloe vera, turmeric, and honey homemade face mask. As far as skincare, remembering to take off your makeup at night before bed and stay hydrated—lots of water. My go-to makeup look is a total beat face, and yes, I’m a sucker for false lashes. However, even though I say this, some of my favorite shoots have been with barely any makeup on.

Shop Halima's beauty essentials:

What do you hope your career says to women around the world? 

My messaging has always been and will continue to be don’t change yourself; change the game. 

Shop more of Halima's favorite brands:

Next: Meet the Hairstylists Redefining Natural Hair in Hollywood

When I was growing up, it seemed that modesty and fashion were an unattainable couple. That didn’t always remain the case, but for a large part of my life, dressing modestly in a way that felt stylish was a struggle—especially as a teenager when everyone my age (including me) wanted to wear whatever Selena Gomez or Hilary Duff had on. Later, however, as I dove deeper into the journey of finding and defining my personal style, I slowly learned that I didn’t have to give up my love of fashion and trends to adhere to my values (16-year-old me also found modest fashion trailblazers like Dina Tokio on YouTube and it all went up-hill from there).

Since then, the industry has also moved in such a direction that made modest dressing easier, as designers and consumers have taken a liking to trends that fit in with the modesty movement. Runways and It brands have embraced looser-fitting shapes, more covered-up silhouettes, and creative forms of layering. Runway trends aside, though, I wanted to dig into the essentials that have become the backbone of my wardrobe—making dressing in the morning (and following my favorite style icons) much easier than you’d think.

In simpler words—I’ve figured out the key(s) to modest dressing. It may require a few more minutes of thinking in the morning, but once you start to incorporate each of these key pieces into your wardrobe, it’s smooth sailing. And, as someone who’s worn the hijab for almost seven years now, I’m trustworthy, I promise.

From the fresh ways to style slip skirts to the ultimate grouping of layering options, there’s a certain art to keeping up with trends while keeping yourself covered, but it’s an art that you can learn easily with the right tools. If you want to read about all my secrets, just keep scrolling.

1. Slip Skirts

Surprisingly, I don’t own a lot of midi or maxi dresses (which tend to be a big part of the modest uniform), as I gravitate more toward skirts because of their versatility. I like to get multiple wears out of items, and slip skirts are easier to pair for both day and night. For casual outfits, I opt for T-shirts or sweatshirts as seen on me and Sobi above, or I transition the skirt into a more dressed-up ensemble with strappy sandals and a tied blouse.

Shop slip skirts:

2. Longline Blazers

A long-line blazer is an immediate way to be the most put-together person in the room. Whether it’s a casual or more professional ensemble, it adds an element of structure that a cardigan or other jacket simply can't do as well. My favorite way to wear blazers is over statement tees because it creates a nice juxtaposition of street edge and chic. 

Shop longline blazers:

3. Relaxed Jeans

I love a good skinny jean, but there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for my more relaxed silhouettes. I suggest investing in a good-quality pair because trust me, you’ll get much wear out of them. They look good with anything—whether it’s a strappy sandal or white sneakers—and not to mention they are so incredibly roomy. As you can see above, I wear them in a more upgraded way for the office (a little too often), but you can also see me in them running errands with an oversize sweatshirt. 

Shop relaxed jeans:

4. Layering Tops

There are endless ways to style these form-fitting tops, so stock up. It can be easy to see a less modest item that you love in store and think, "There's no way I could wear that," but with these tops on hand, you can work your way around it and make any piece look like it was made for you.

Style Tip: Buy patterned ones, such as stripes or snakeskin, to add an unexpected element to your jumpsuits and oversize T-shirts. 

Shop layering tops:

5. Matching Sets

Sometimes you’re just way too tired to think about how to pair items, and that’s where matching sets come to play. Wearing a monochromatic or one-patterned ensemble makes you look immediately more elevated, and people won’t even know how little time you put into thinking about what to wear. The best part is, since they're separates, you can switch them around and pair them with other pieces if you ever get tired of wearing them together. It's a win-win situation.

Shop matching sets:

6. Wide-Leg Pants

Finding longer tops to wear with more fitted pants (that don’t swallow me whole) can be quite difficult. Since shorter tops tend to flatter me better, pairing them with a wide-leg pant is my go-to alternative.This silhouette is ideal to build an effortless fall fit with on-trend outerwear and your favorite sweaters, among other layering pieces. 

Shop wide-leg pants:

7. Button-Downs

Meet your new favorite wardrobe piece. The lighter fabric of button-down blouses makes it a great item to go��over your T-shirts and jeans, or knotted at the ends over a dress. Jackets can be a little stiff, so a button-down is a way to keep an outfit light while still adding dimension to your look. I have a special place in my heart for standout colors and satin versions because of how much of a game changer they can be for a minimal outfit.

Shop button-downs:

Up next? What Gen Z New Yorkers are buying for back-to-school.

When I first wrote this article on modest fashion four years ago, Pinterest UK told me that searches for "modest fashion" were up 500% since the beginning of the year. Looking back, it wasn’t so much that modest fashion itself was being searched for more but that the industry and audience were wising up to its potential. Brands, designers and stores were finally coming around to the fact that a huge market of fashion-loving people had, until then, been sorely underserved. Fast-forward to this year, and the search results are indicative of just how much more engaged and active many modest shoppers are. YoY, "abayas fashion” is the second most-searched-for term overall in women’s fashion on Pinterest. Meanwhile, over on Lyst, pageviews have increased by 39% in the past six months for "modest kaftans.” Not only is the general interest increasing, but we're now at a stage where things are getting specific, and rightly so.

A look from the Stine Goya runway. 

Back in 2019, the global modest fashion market was already reportedly worth hundreds of billions and was set to scale up by gargantuan proportions over the next five years. Fast-forward to 2022, and the forecasted numbers aren’t far off. The State of the Global Islamic Economy Report for 2020/2021 explains that Muslim spend on apparel and footwear increased by 4.2% YoY in 2019 to $277 billion, and although the pandemic did negatively impact the original growth that experts predicted, it is expected that numbers will bounce back to $311 billion in 2024. 

A look from the Huishan Zhang runway. 

A quick glance on Instagram and TikTok reveals a host of new names and faces bringing modest-fashion looks to a wider audience. "Social media has changed the modest-fashion landscape, as it’s made the modest-fashion world more visible,” explains Who What Wear U.S.’s assistant market editor Yusra Siddiqui. "Before social media, people had a cookie-cutter image of what a modest dresser looked like, and having the opportunity to see people around the world shows that there is no exact image or persona for the modest dresser.”

So it would seem that modest fashion is everywhere. H&M launched a range earlier this month centered on modest silhouettes that are "perfect for upcoming Eid celebrations,” according to the press release. But what exactly is modest fashion? As a whole, this movement has been picking up the pace for over a decade in the fashion mainstream, but there’s still a fogginess about what it means to be a modest dresser, what it looks like and how it’s influencing style-aware people right now. I spoke to a range of experts in the field to understand more. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about modest fashion, as well as some shopping picks for the season.

So what does "modest fashion" actually mean?

Hodan Yousuf's experimental layering and amazing hat collection deserve attention.

If there's one thing all of the women I spoke to agree on, it's this: There is no one definition of what modest fashion means, but it essentially relates to having a degree of awareness when it comes to covering up parts of your body. This chasm of information we cannot categorise and pigeonhole contributes greatly to the mass market's uncertainty of how to communicate with and supply to women who want modest fashion. It can also make anyone who isn't personally versed in the concept feel ill-equipped to talk about it, but perhaps confirming its ambiguity can help to push the concept forward.

Noor often layers jersey pieces to create interesting looks.

Shanara Matin, CEO and creative director of Naayib London, admits that even experts in the arena, such as herself, are not immune to misconceptions surrounding modest dressing now. "I continue to learn so much about what modest dressing means to people, and I think that’s the big takeaway itself,” she tells me. "My vision for Naayib was that it be cross-cultural in appeal, and we’ve been happily surprised just how much it does reach across different communities of interest, identity and place. There are really, really diverse aspirations and motivations for looking for clothing that is not focused on enhancing the pure physicality of our bodies but just as much about dressing for ourselves as any other approach to fashion in that it’s determined by personal priorities and our own self-image of how we want to participate in the world.”

"The reality is that everyone has their own idea of what modest fashion means to them."

Model Halima Aden at the CFDAs in 2019 wearing a leather coat and printed headscarf.

"Modest fashion as a term, as a market term, came to prevalence in the mid-2000s, and this was partly because a number of the brands that first started up came from designers and creative entrepreneurs who were themselves religiously motivated," says Reina Lewis, professor of cultural studies at London College of Fashion, UAL. She explained to me that the internet made it possible for savvy, underserved religio-ethnic individuals and groups to start providing both the products and content that they were missing.

As Hana Tajima—the British Japanese Muslim fashion designer who has repeatedly collaborated with Uniqlo on a range of modest-friendly fashion—tells me, "The reality is that everyone has their own idea of what modest fashion means to them. And that runs alongside people's personal preferences of colour and style. It's such a broad idea that gets very narrow inside those two words."

Erica Davies owns a veritable catalogue of modest dresses that could suit many wardrobes.

So, in brief, modest fashion can describe varying degrees of covering up on purpose. The decision can be due to religio-ethnic fulfillment or to attain a certain aesthetic and level of ease because it is not just a trend that's tied to spirituality.

What's going on in mainstream retail for modest fashion right now?

Manchester-based Amira is our go-to person for casual streetwear looks.

First up, let's look at the primary stat that gets referenced time and again. According to the Global Islamic Economy Report, the Muslim fashion spend alone in the UK is estimated to reach $311 billion by 2024. This is, in part, due to an increasing number of millennial Muslim women—or Generation M—who have larger amounts of disposable income thanks to their new positions in the workplace rather than the home.

Outside of facts and figures, take a second to think about where fashion is headed right now: Social media has prompted diversity to become a mainstay—not a gimmick—within the industry. It's also shone a light on the (obvious) fact that women of different shapes, faiths, colours, sizes and backgrounds can be just as stylish and can be equally valuable customers.

H&M's Spring Statements collection was angled towards Eid celebrations.

The global response every time the modest-fashion market is addressed highlights just how much this faction wants to be spoken and catered to. When DKNY marketed a Ramadan collection of existing pieces that were suitable for modest dressers in 2014, the press coverage was phenomenal. The same goes for when H&M selected Mariah Idrissi to feature in a video in 2015. She became the first hijab-wearing model to feature in one of the megalith's campaigns. She tells me her life changed overnight. "I was scouted in a shopping centre soon after graduating university and [had been] planning on working for myself in a creative field, but I never expected to be a model," she says.

"That went viral within minutes," Lewis says of the high-street campaign. "I think the brands involved haven't realised the appetite for this … how much it would get taken up. I think Mariah got more traction and coverage than the other people involved in it, but the video was innovative in a number of ways in terms of how it presented social diversity for fashion."

If I'm not religious, can I be a part of the movement?

If you like Prada, you're going to love Taqwa.

Lewis explains that while the modest fashion market is predominantly growing within the Abrahamic faiths (that's Judaism, Christianity and Islam), according to census data, more and more young people are identifying as "spiritual, not religious." With that in mind, it's quite possible that piety and modest dressing are by-products, but yes, anyone can dress modestly—to any degree—if they want to.

"I would make the point that women interpret requirements to dress modestly in many different ways, and the way they interpret it can change over their life. Within any one religious denomination, there will be a number of different interpretations and practices," Lewis says.

With relaxed tailoring and loose-fit dresses, Alexis Foreman often dresses modestly.

"Interestingly, there are a lot of non-Muslim women who are drawn to this aesthetic," Tajima says. "There seems to be an overlap of subcultures and women redefining what femininity means to them. It helps that the clothes are inherently comfortable. Japan has been exceptionally receptive to my collaboration with Uniqlo. I think a lot of women aren't necessarily aware that the clothes could be seen as 'modest fashion.' It's just a style that resonates with them.”

Is it a coincidence that the oversized silhouettes—like the super-wide trousers or statement sleeves—we're into are so prevalent on the runways and in stores right now? Fashion is often a reflection of the cultural conversation, and today there are more options than ever for dressing modestly. Lyst, the data-crunching fashion search engine, has seen an increase in related terms such as "high neck" or "long sleeve" increasing by 40% and 52%, respectively, over the past six months. Meanwhile, the brand notes that even more specific categories, such as "modest bikinis," are winning out over skimpier styles.

What's the biggest misconception about modest fashion?

Follow Sally Ashour for all the #cottagecore vibes you'll ever need.

Once you put aside the misconception that modest fashion is only tied to religious and religo-ethnic desires, many of the experts I tapped for information were quick to stress that covering up doesn't have to equate to looking boring or avoiding trends. Anum Bashir, a Dubai-based influencer who used to share her looks on a now-defunct blog called Desert Mannequin, completely debunks the myth that modest fashion "can't be on-trend or that designers don't design for the modest dresser. … I love having fun with clothes as of late: colours, prints, layers, etc. What I don't tend to do is show too much skin.” 

Maria Alia Al-sadek is known for her elevated designer wardrobe.

Does Bashir's process sound familiar to you? It's one that I share, yet I've never purposefully sought out or aimed to participate in the modest-fashion movement. The idea is far from restrictive, agrees Aysha Harun, although it did still take the L.A.-based influencer a beat to catch up with her own wardrobe desires. "I think when I first started dressing more modestly, I didn't realize that I'd be able to give current fashion trends a modest twist, so I didn't feel super confident in the clothing I put on. Over time, as I began getting more comfortable with modest fashion, I started experimenting with trends and altering them slightly to fit a more modest look. That meant layering different pieces, adding neutral basics into my wardrobe to easily give something with cut-outs and slits more coverage, etc. Now I feel like I can confidently participate in any current fashion trends and make them modest with ease.”

What are the staple items for modest dressers?

Be sure to follow Who What Wear's Yusra Siddiqui for great outfit ideas.

Idrissi's key pieces are far from the traditional super-long skirts or loose layers you might have imagined. She relies upon "a black polo top, a pair of mom jeans and a white pair of trainers." Designer Tajima has explained that "through the winter, I've been living in thrifted cashmere knits and wide-leg pants. Many years ago, my aunt gave me a beautiful black wool shawl with simple white floral embroidery. I almost always take it with me when I'm travelling. It makes anything else I'm wearing more interesting and put together."

The common thread that runs through many of the best dressed in this category is accessories. Like it is for any other fashion lover, outfit success is all in the details, from cool sunglasses to an elaborate pair of shoes. Whether you choose to seek out today's most appropriate trends or look back at iconic, demure fashion moments in time, there's no one prescription for pulling a modest wardrobe together.

Model Ikram Abdi outside the A/W 22 Dior show in Paris.

Matin has seen at Naayib that certain categories can perform best. "Our skirts are super popular—I think perhaps if you like the modest aesthetic, a long skirt is a wardrobe staple, but it’s also a chic and timeless product whatever your style preference,” she says. "We also have a knitted cape, which has been a best seller every week, come rain or shine! It’s a great outerwear piece with lots of styling versatility, which is something we strive for in all our pieces.”

Siddiqui has a few favourite items worth your consideration. "I love that vests are back, as I always gravitated towards them since they provide optimal coverage and give me an easy way to layer. I think they'll be sticking a while and become a closet staple, as they've surely become one in my wardrobe. I'm also very much here for tonal suiting, as it's an easy-to-style outfit with a more oversized silhouette that works great for me when I want to look put together.”

Being religious and fashionable: Why is that a problem for some people?

If you adore bright colours and joyful outfits, London-based Basma is the one.

It's a hotly debated topic, and like with anything in this world, there are many sides to the story. Some onlookers feel that being self-conscious about your outer image could be non-religious in itself. But there's another side to this retail sector being a prime target for sales and marketing. "There are some commentators who say they don't want Ramadan to become a fashion pressure," Lewis says. "Say if you're going to break the fast, and every time you see a different group of friends and family, do you have to have a different outfit? Do you have to be on-trend? Are some women going to be priced out of piety because participating in consumption becomes an obligation that makes it hard to be involved in community events?"

However, outside of the obvious positives in terms of empowerment, and noting that many modest dressers are feminists, Lewis explains that other important ethical conversations are often born out of the modest-fashion movement. "I've been seeing for quite a long time from fashion bloggers, designers and consumers that it's all very well to say that because of my religious convictions, [I'll wear this] … but are you buying too much? Or that it's not just how wear your hijab or how you're styling your hijab, but where did that come from or who made it? What is the environmental and social impact of your clothes? Many fashion consumers, particularly younger fashion consumers, are very motivated about [this] in general."

A defining runway moment: Halima Aden on the Max Mara runway in 2017.

The intersection of sustainability and modest fashion is one that has really developed over the past few years, as it has with most pockets of the retail industry. "Modesty as a human value is about humility and compassion as key ingredients in how we live with each other and absolutely in relation to Mother Nature and our environment. We’ve had some engagement with customers who have rightly wanted to know about the ethics and practices that operate within our supply chain, which we are proud to stand by,” says Matin. 

What's next for modest fashion?

Many of the women I spoke to all felt that the next stage for modest fashion lies in diversity: the diversity of women who are choosing to dress this way, as well as an expansion of designers, influencers and platforms that this department will seep into. Most significantly, there is a strong desire for sizing to be more inclusive. "I still think there's a long way to go—especially when for years modest women were told that designing for them wasn't suitable, but now that oversized silhouettes and longer lengthed items are 'trendy,' brands have no problem creating pieces. Also, just like the rest of the industry, I think the modest-fashion industry can definitely do a better job at size inclusivity,” explains Siddiqui. "While many brands may release modest pieces and collections, they often leave out a large portion of sizes. Vela Scarves is a hijab brand that I think does a wonderful job at casting for its campaigns. Despite the product being a scarf, the brand shows it on different skin tones, age groups and body types.” Aysha Harun agrees, noting that "sizes in modest clothing will rarely ever reach an XL, which makes it a lot harder for curvy and/or plus-size modest-dressing women to find pieces that fit their bodies.”

Yusra's modest take on Miu Miu's cult look is genuis.

Idrissi is hopeful that more major retailers will collaborate with modest designers, while Lewis predicts that we may start to see more modest fashion events that live offline and empower women in person. "While I believe it will continue to grow naturally, as it caters to a particular woman, not a culture or a religion, I also believe modest fashion shouldn't even be labelled," says Bashir. "It should seamlessly be integrated into the industry.” One would imagine—or hope—that the sustainable elements and better sizing ranges would start to weave into this approach too. 

Shop some of our favourite modest-fashion buys:

Up next—Best Wardrobe In Britain: Rosh Mahtani

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

This obviously isn’t news to anyone, but layering is key when it comes to cold weather. It’ll keep you comfortable on the days where the weather just can’t seem to stay consistent, and if you prefer to dress modestly like me, it’ll help you adapt to current trends without stepping out of your comfort zone. As someone who layers year-round (yes, even in the summer!) I’d say you can basically consider me a professional at this point. But unlike how easy street-style stars and the outfits in your Instagram saved folder can make it seem, putting together a perfectly layered outfit can be a bit of a lengthy process. If you’re wondering how to make that process easier, then you’ve come to the right place. 

From implementing different styling tricks into my routine to trying on a variety of outfit formulas, it’s taken me a lot of research and a few fashion mishaps along the way to finally figure out the tricky art of layering. Below, I'll be sharing the seven tips I follow to master an outfit that caters to the balance of fashion and functionality. You’re welcome.

1. Invest in a collection of innerwear

The best thing I ever did was start a collection of good quality undershirts, whether it be ribbed tops, turtlenecks, or solid colored long-sleeve tees. I love pairing them under a button-up or a dress to add another element to a once basic outfit. 

2. Embrace the tuck

Whenever a layered outfit looks off, the first thing I try is tucking in my top and 99% of the time it makes the look so much more put-together. So much so that it’s almost unbearable for me to leave something untucked now.

3. Make your pieces work double-duty

Try not to view your sweater as just a sweater, or your scarf as just a scarf. No, I’m not being fake-deep—I truly think a fashion item can be what you make of it. Throw your sweater over your shoulders as an accessory that you can layer on if you get cold later on, or tie a scarf and turn it into a wrap top to wear over a ribbed top. The possibilities are endless. 

4. Don't look at items from a seasonal point of view

I used to store my clothing items by season, but I was quick to realize that I was unconsciously letting a whole wardrobe of pieces go to waste. That dress that you obsessively wore all summer? Throw a jacket or a vest over it to bring it into the colder months. 

5. Mixing textures add dimensions to a layered look

Don’t be afraid to mix up the fabrics of your pieces. Whether it’s pairing leather with knitwear or a furry coat, it makes your layered outfit so much more interesting. 

6. Don't be afraid of the unexpected

When people say rules are meant to be broken, I believe they’re talking about fashion rules. Wear jeans under a dress, a sweater under a strapless party dress… Thinking outside of the box has led me to some of my best outfits. 

7. Pay attention to the lengths of each item

Not to say you can’t wear pieces of similar lengths, but it just makes it easier when you mix up highs and lows when it comes to each individual layer. This may seem like fashion basics, but it’s a tip that I swear by when I need an easy outfit in the morning. A cropped jacket looks so good paired with a loose silhouette, and the same goes with a longer coat and a top with a shorter hem.