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.
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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 silhouettes.
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Ahead, we round up modest wear ideas, styles and trends you’ll want to bookmark. Heads up: you’ll never ask, “Why is it so hard to find modest clothing?” ever again.
How to wear modest clothing for every occasion
Always wanted to know how to wear modest dresses in your everyday wardrobe? The hunt ends here with this definitive guide on all the modest fashion essentials you need to know:
Modest wear for gym
- The world of modest exercise wear has come a long way, but your choices should always be highlighted by breathable and fast-drying fabrics.
- For summers, opt for lightweight tops and if your workout requires shorts, layer it over a pair of fitted tights underneath.
- During the winter, turn to sweatshirts and sweatpants in a relaxed fit that won’t define the shape of the body.
Asana Charlie hoodie in tech fleece, The Upside
Modest wear for summer
- As the temperatures start rising, you can rejoice in knowing that you needn’t compromise on comfort.
- Allow lightweight, breathable modest wear in fabrics such as cotton and linen to become your new best friend.
- The choice of silhouettes runs the gamut, from wafty kaftans for lounging by the poolside to flowy separates in bold colors for a day out with the girls.
Anemone-print kaftan in silk-chiffon, Dolce & Gabbana
Valentino Garavani toile iconographe blouse in silk-jacquard, Valentino Garavani
Modest swimwear
- The season would be incomplete without a quick dip in the pool, but you needn’t worry about baring it all.
- A new range of modest swimwear offers coverage and support in all the places that you need it.
- Opt for quick-drying fabrics and creative details, such as ruching, to make a statement as you hit the sun and the sand.
Diana swim set in nylon, Lanuuk
Modest wear for wedding
- Whether you are the bride or the bridesmaid, or just a serial wedding hopper who likes to make heads turn, there is a modest evening wear outfit for everybody.
- For those whose preferences run towards modest dresses with hijab, look for embellished abayas for a touch of sparkle.
- And if you are on the hunt for modest clothing without hijab, allow beaded gowns with demure necklines to capture your fantasy.
- Looking to stand out in a crowd? A lively pop of color and a dash of glittering crystals will do the trick.
Embellished abaya set, Homa Q
Londyn dress in crepe, Anatomi
High neck fully beaded gown, Mac Duggal
Modest winter outfit ideas
- Winter is when your modest wear wardrobe can truly shine, as bundled-up looks are highly coveted through the season.
- On the pre-fall 2024 runways, timeless staples assumed the spotlight—look no further than Lanvin’s edit of tailored silhouettes for daywear with a bohemian touch of feathers.
- For making the most of the season’s possibilities, opt for tone-on-tone pairings, such as a cardigan buttoned under oversized outerwear.
Lanvin pre-fall 2024
Modest office wear
- As work-from-home diktats ease up, the return to the cubicle coincides with an exciting range of styles to be explored.
- Long-line blazers make for a must-have in the lexicon of modest office wear, while accessories like monogrammed necklaces can lend a further touch of individuality to a look.
- Innovative silhouettes will also come to your rescue on days when you are looking to step beyond the usual suspects, such as a scarf blouse with gold hardware.
Scarf blouse in viscose georgette, Elisabetta Franchi
Modest travel wear
- Vacations call for a break from the monotony of the ordinary, so this is your license to allow your inner diva to roam free.
- Love wearing vibrant dresses but always worried about low necklines? Invest in a fitted turtleneck that can be easily layered under a plunging neckline or a sleeveless gown.
- If you are looking to break free from the uniform of relaxed shorts and wide-legged bottoms, you can express your personal style by opting for printed midi dresses and metallic skirts.
- For a runway-ready look, take your style cues from Missoni’s pre-fall 2024 lineup that offered an imaginative take on head-to-toe print.
Missoni pre-fall 2024
