This month marks a significant milestone for the Modest Fashion movement as it celebrates its 10th edition in Abu Dhabi. This event is a testament to how far the movement has come, carving out a meaningful niche not just in the region but globally. However, the journey is far from over, and there’s still much to achieve.

Under the iconic Burj Al Arab, model Halima Aden gracefully glides down an outdoor runway, adorned in a stunning salmon pink caped gown. With long sleeves, a high neckline, and intricate beaded details, she captures the essence of modest elegance. Her beautifully wrapped turban adds a touch of sophistication as she showcases the work of Turkish designer Raşit Bağzıbağlı during the inaugural Dubai Modest Fashion Week in 2017. This powerful visual speaks volumes to women who adhere to traditional dress codes, proving that modesty can be both stylish and contemporary.

(Photo: Halal Times)

While the fashion world often revolves around the major hubs of New York, London, Milan, and Paris, the rise of dedicated modest fashion weeks is changing the game. Cities like Riyadh, Istanbul, Amsterdam, and Jakarta are embracing this movement, and now Abu Dhabi is set to host its own celebration of modest fashion. This event will unite brands from around the globe, all sharing a commitment to stylishly covering the skin. Halima Aden, a trailblazer in the industry, emphasizes the importance of these dedicated platforms, stating, 

“We’re not an afterthought, we’re the main event.”

Halima’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born in a refugee camp in Kenya, she made waves in the fashion world after competing in the Miss Minnesota USA Pageant in 2016 and debuting at New York Fashion Week shortly after. She has graced the runways for renowned brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Max Mara, and made history as the first veiled model to appear on a Vogue cover. Now, she’s collaborating with the Turkish label Marina to launch a collection that celebrates individuality within the realm of modest fashion.

“Mainstream fashion often boxes modesty into trends, but events like this allow us to define modest fashion on our own terms,” she explains.

The modest fashion industry is booming, with Muslim spending on fashion projected to reach a staggering $428 billion by 2027, up from $318 billion in 2022, according to DinarStandard’s State of the Global Islamic Economy Report. The Gulf region is at the heart of this retail revolution, with local brands achieving remarkable success both regionally and internationally.

Emirati designer Rabia Zargarpur, who played a pivotal role in the first Modest Fashion Week in Istanbul and served as creative director for Dubai’s inaugural event, highlights the GCC’s emergence as a global fashion powerhouse. 

“These events provide designers with visibility and celebrate the diverse expressions of modest fashion,” she says. 

Zargarpur also founded the Modest Fashion Academy, offering guidance to aspiring designers and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that understanding the business side of fashion is crucial for success.

As the Turkish organizer of Modest Fashion Week, Ozlem Sahin, points out, this event is more than just a showcase, it’s a platform that connects designers with government entities, retailers, and consumers to foster growth. 

“The UAE is one of the world’s leading capitals for modest fashion,” she adds.

(Photo: Halal Times)

The region’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with modesty, and Dubai-based stylist Junaynah El Guthmy believes it’s essential for the local fashion scene to embrace this aspect fully. She questions whether the modest fashion movement, often influenced by Western trends, risks overshadowing its local roots. 

“The region should lead in showcasing its unique interpretation of modesty,” she asserts.

Norwegian-Somali model Rawdah Mohamed, who has made waves in the fashion world with her #handsoffmyhijab campaign, echoes this sentiment. 

“Modest fashion is not separate from the rest of fashion, it’s a global phenomenon that transcends cultural boundaries,” she states. 

Mohamed will be attending Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week to unveil her collaboration with Turkish label Imannoor, emphasizing the importance of a supportive community for the industry’s future.

Mariah Idrissi, the first hijab-wearing model to star in a global campaign, hopes to revive the core values of modesty amidst its commercialization. She advocates for sustainability and ethical practices in the fashion industry, stressing that the entire process, from sourcing materials to production, should align with the principles of faith.

Interestingly, while modest fashion is primarily driven by Muslim consumers, it has also attracted women of various faiths and backgrounds. Halima Aden notes that many embrace modest fashion for personal comfort, professional settings, or as a rebellion against hypersexualized fashion norms. 

“It’s about autonomy—choosing how much to reveal rather than being told what’s acceptable,” she explains. 

This empowerment is what makes modest fashion a lasting movement.

The evolution of modest fashion has transcended its initial boundaries, evolving into a vibrant and diverse expression of style. Halima Aden, showcasing her fashion-forward looks from renowned labels like Loewe and Valentino, exemplifies this growth. Today, modest clothing is not just about covering up, it’s about bold statements and creative designs that challenge traditional norms. From innovative swimwear to activewear and unique layering techniques, the industry is continuously pushing the envelope.

The global retail landscape is undeniably influenced by the rising demand for modest fashion. It has become more mainstream, with hijabi models appearing in major campaigns, reflecting a shift in consumer representation. 

“Seeing women in hijabs featured prominently in global marketing is a significant step forward,” Aden remarks. 

The impact of this visibility extends beyond mere representation, it’s about reshaping perceptions and expanding the definition of beauty.

As the Modest Fashion Week approaches in Abu Dhabi, it promises to be a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. The event will not only showcase the latest trends but also foster connections among designers, consumers, and industry leaders. It’s a moment for the modest fashion community to shine, proving that this movement is not just a fleeting trend but a powerful force in the fashion world. The future of modest fashion looks bright, with a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and authenticity at its core.

Original Article:

Halal Focus. (2025, April 15). Modest Fashion Week is coming to Abu Dhabi – Here’s an update on this global style movement. https://halalfocus.com/modest-fashion-week-is-coming-to-abu-dhabi-heres-an-update-on-this-global-style-movement/