Fashion choices are always full of nuance and controversy. While it seems like choosing what to wear shouldn’t be all that complicated (shouldn’t it just be about what makes you feel good?), the fashion world is full of guilt trips, whether it’s about not being thin enough, not being curvy enough, not being sultry or provocative enough, or not being modest enough.
For women especially, this can be tough when it comes to figuring out where you fall in all of this. My take is simple: Wear what makes you feel magical and beautiful and awesome. Dress in a way that makes you feel like a million bucks (even if your entire outfit cost $20), and makes you feel like the best version of you out there. Because that’s what matters.
For some, dressing modestly is important–and that shouldn’t be seen as uncool or unsexy, because everyone is sexy, no matter how much skin is showing.
This is why I rounded up five of my favorite fashionistas who dress modestly–some identify as Jewish, while others identify as Muslim. I love the fact that modest fashion is bridging these two cultures together, creating a sense of solidarity and connection, especially in a world that is being torn apart by politics and religious ignorance. We can do better. And you know, have fun while doing it.
Get inspired:
Orthodox Jewish designers Chaya Chanin and Simi Polonsky are the style queens behind The Frock NYC. Originally from Australia, they know a thing or two about dressing well, and modestly, for the summer (which you can read more about here).
2. Adi Heyman
Adi Heyman is the founder of the modest fashion blog Fabologie.
3. Halima Aden
Aden is one of the few Muslim models in the fashion industry right now, especially one who wears a hijab. She is a Somali-American who was born in a Kenyan refugee camp and then signed with IMG Models earlier this year.
Malky Weichbrod is an Orthodox Jewish modest fashion blogger who has become known for her unique approach to fashion by simply showing us that covering up can still be sexy and full of mystique–a growing trend within the fashion world. Weichbrod has been featured on Mic and Refinery29.
5. Maria Alia
Alia is a Muslim modest fashion blogger who identifies as “a multifaceted artist, editor, and influencer of Palestinian and Puerto Rican descent.” She works with brands to create more options for women who want more, not less.
