Rewriting The Fashion Narrative: 5 Pioneers Of Modest Fashion That Set Their Own Path

We speak of how art and expression are closely tied together, and that the latter is invariably present through the former. So, if fashion is a form of expression, by way of definition, we can say that fashion is art.

However, fashion as art is one that is highly versatile in its ways. What we see on the runways and on models is just the tip of the iceberg. There exists a whole world of fashion that strays away from its mainstream connotation of plunging necklines and figure-hugging material.

Modest fashion, as it is referred to, takes back the power from clothing material itself and restores it in the one wearing it. Essentially, it refers to the use of fashion to give importance to cover up the body, rather than aim to reveal it. In a conversation with the BBC, Asha Mohamud, a modest fashion blogger captured the essence of modest fashion. She says, “I feel like women are now dressing not to be sexy for men, but to feel sexy for themselves. Maybe that’s no longer a push-up bra, instead, it’s a two-piece suit.”

With an aim to encourage modest fashion to be the showstopper, we have put together a list of five modest fashion pioneers who bask in all their modest fashion glory, and make you wish you were able to pull it off just as well as them.

I. Anah

Defining our modest fashion goals, Mumbai-based Anah puts together outfits seamlessly. From ethnic wear to pantsuits and gowns to winterwear, her style exudes confidence and charisma. Taking the hijab to a higher level, she integrates it into the outfit just as if it belongs. Unafraid, elegant, and aesthetically pleasing, all in one, Anah’s modest fashion is one to fangirl over. She defies all connotations of ‘modest’ being defined by a regular pair of jeans and tops with sleeves that overtly cover your arms, and we’re here for it.

You can find Anah here.

II. Hiba

Apart from her on-point makeup game, Hiba’s hijab styling tips are to watch out for. Taking into account comfort, style and the overall look, this Kochi-based personality is serving us serious looks. Hiba gives the hijab the attention it deserves and encourages her followers to do the same by matching it with the rest of her outfit, yet draping it in a manner that makes it the wow-element. Her Instagram feed is a sight for sore eyes and it also ensures you learn how to put your A-game forward. Her content includes lifestyle, skincare and organisation tips, too.

You can find Hiba here.

III. Mahnaz

Everyday looks are the hardest to get right, but Hyderabad-based Mahnaz’s outfit inspirations are enough for us to get through one week after another. Marrying modest fashion and daily wear with ease, Mahnaz aces looks with jeans, skirts, and trousers. Her flawless formal and semi-formal outfits are easy to style, and also perfect to show off. Through her content, she also drops tips on how to style particular accessories with outfits. Videos such as ‘Last Minute Eid Outfit Ideas’ and ‘1 Skirt, 8 Styles’ explain the various ways one can style ethnic as well as western wear easily and conveniently. She even went beyond the white kurta and orange dupatta for Independence Day and created various outfits for the occasion in her ‘Tricolour Palette’ video.

You can find Mahnaz here.

IV. Nabeeha Fakih Sheikh

Simple, chic, and impressive – three word we would use to describe Nabeeha’s impeccable taste in outfits, glam and lifestyle choices. She doubles as a dentist by profession yet does not fail to give us a glimpse of her life. Her casual looks themselves are awe-worthy, and her ethnic looks take it one step beyond. Along with her series of skincare tips and outfit styling options, she also keeps us entertained with short videos that are relatable to most South Asian women and are bound to make you chuckle. Even after all this, Nabeeha does not fail to provide a word or two for that weekly motivation.

You can find Nabeeha here.

V. Saeedah Haque

Proving that streetwear doesn’t just belong in mainstream fashion, Saeedah began working on a Japanese-minimalism and Bangladeshi-culture inspired modest outfits that carefully and sufficiently blended with streetwear. Allowing her desi roots to shine through the deep colour palettes, smoked out kajal, nath and jhumars, Saeedah aims to reclaim the narrative and shape it into a more diverse and inclusive one. Modest streetwear fashion is slowly making its well-deserved rise and is doing much more than simply putting out new looks — it disproves that modest fashion is capable of only so much and in that process, liberates those who do not wish to be put into a box. Saeedah Haque is at the forefront of it all.

You can find Saeedah here.

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