A multi-billion dollar industry, the modest fashion trend is on the ascent and it’s not hard to see why.
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If you spend any time on TikTok or Instagram, it’ll be no surprise to you that the modest fashion trend has picked up enormous momentum recently.
While the burgeoning category originated due to religious and cultural reasons, it’s since expanded into a dynamic way of dressing that celebrates layering and champions covering up as an exciting form of personal expression.
With the 2022 State of the Global Islamic Economy Report revealing the modest fashion industry is now worth around US $277 billion (AU $410 billion), and the hashtag #modestfashion skyrocketing to over 1.8 billion views on TikTok this is a trend to embrace wholeheartedly.
So, where to start? According to Sydney-based Muslim fashion content creator Nawal Sari, who’s racked up over 245,000 Instagram followers thanks to her envy-inducing interpretation of the modest fashion trend, maxi skirts, boots that offer coverage, maxi dresses and matching jacket-and-pants sets are a great place to start.
“It’s also important to remember that what I define as modest may not be the same for the next girl. It is a spectrum and unique to everyone,” Nawal said. “However, layering is a hijabi girl’s best friend!”
BEST MODEST FASHION RETAILERS
Thankfully, the popularity of the modest fashion trend has meant that many retailers and fashion brands are offering incredible pieces to add to your wardrobe. You just need to know where to look.
Interested in adding the concept of modest fashion to your closet? We’re here to help. Below, we’ve rounded up our top picks for the best modest fashion retailers in Australia right now.
The Iconic is one of those Australian retailers that have listened to the demand for modest fashion, releasing a dedicated ICONIC Modest Edit. It’s a move Nawal Sari has given a big tick of approval.
“It’s great to see high neck garments, long sleeves (preferably puff sleeves), maxi dresses
without any slits, and clothes that aren’t too tight. I personally love mainstream brands that can incorporate those silhouettes into their collections, with on-trend colours and patterns. I love a good wide leg suit, a high neck long sleeve, or button up maxi dress, and ESPECIALLY when a bandana or satin scarf to match is included – such a cool look,” she said.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
ASIYAM Iconic Pleated Dress, $145
This long-sleeved pleated dress in a gorgeous pistachio-green shade is one to add to your closet. It offers a full-length and relaxed fit, and can be worn all year round.
TWIICE Noura Layered Dress, $199
Add some florals to your collection with this layered dress from TWIICE. It comes with a funnel neckline, cinched waist and layered skirt detailing, perfect for a daytime look.
Veil of Faith Hayat Fitted Dress, $140
Made from a blend of polyester and elastane, this fitted and stretchy full-length dress is the ideal dress for everyday casual wear. It’s designed with a crossover silhouette and offers a V-shaped neckline to show off your layering pieces.
MORE MODEST FASHION AT THE ICONIC
Similar to The Iconic, ASOS is a huge online fashion marketplace housing all your favourite brands. They’ve also got their own modest fashion edit, created with long sleeves, floor-length hemlines and opaque fabrics.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
ASOS DESIGN long sleeve maxi T-shirt dress in black, $48
This casual dress is a must-have for your everyday wardrobe. It’s got a high neck, long sleeves and a slim fit – plus it’s made from a lightweight, soft and stretchy jersey fabric.
Topshop tie-back oversized shirt in camel, $80
You can’t go wrong with an oversized shirt and this camel colour is super on-trend right now. Perfect for layering, we love the tie details on the wrist and on the back.
ASOS DESIGN commuter suit blazer in burgundy, $120
Blazers are a closet essential, so why not spice things up with this burgundy number? The deep and rich eggplant colour will match with so many gorgeous neutrals in your closet, and you can easily size up for a super oversized fit.
While Uniqlo doesn’t offer a dedicated modest fashion edit, they do offer a huge range of basics in a variety of styles, textures, fabrics, prints and colours. It’s a great place to shop if you’re looking to build out your wardrobe with the best basics around.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater, $129.90
Everybody needs a cashmere crew neck sweater in their collection. This one from Uniqlo is super popular, thanks to it’s lightweight feel while still keeping you toasty warm. We love that it’s also available in a wide range of colours – think mustard, pink, blue and green.
Extra Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater, $49.90
Crafted from 100 per cent merino wool, this ribbed turtleneck sweater gives you plenty of coverage, while the turtleneck adds an interesting element to your overall outfit. Choose from grey, black, burgundy and more.
Ultra Light Down Hooded Coat, $149.90
If you’re shopping around for your winter wardrobe, this protective hooded coat is the way to go. It’s made from a durable water-repellent fabric, plus the style is designed to be a longline fit, hitting just at the knees.
PrettyLittleThing have a dedicated store edit to modest fashion and it encompasses all the different clothing styles you’ll ever need for any occasion. Think formalwear, casualwear, gorgeous dresses, gym gear, loungewear and so much more.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
White Satin High Neck Long Sleeve Jumpsuit, $62 (down from $108)
Who knew a white satin jumpsuit would still adhere to modest dressing? The crisp white satin is a great choice for a formal occasion you may have, plus we love the combination of the long sleeve and high neck. If you’re not comfortable with the cinched waist, you can always layer a gorgeous statement jacket over the top.
Black Faux Leather Oversized Midi Trench Coat, $75 (down from $132)
Faux leather? Check. Oversized fit? Check. This trench coat is about to become your new closet staple. The fit works seamlessly as a layering piece, plus the overall style and vibe is super popular right now.
Green Shoulder Pad Wrap Plisse Blouse, $44 (down from $68)
While at first glance this wrap blouse may look a little revealing, layered over the top of something (like PLT have done) makes it look super cool and unique. The textured plissé material is super on trend right now, plus you can get the matching pants and wear it as a set.
MORE MODEST FASHION AT PRETTYLITTLETHING
Boohoo is one of those online retailers that have designated an entire clothing edit with modesty in mind. Here you’ll find gorgeous tailored shirts and trousers, everyday casual wear, beautiful dresses and so much more. The best part? Boohoo know how to incorporate elements of all the hottest trends, so you’ll feel comfortable and confident.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Satin Long Line Maxi Shirt – $35 (down from $70)
Available in white or bright or purple, this long line maxi shirt is the ideal layering piece. The lightweight satin fabric will ensure you don’t feel too hot, while staying covered up. We also love how you can play around with different looks, depending on what sort of outfit you wear underneath.
Slinky Shoulder Pad Maxi Dress – $47.50 (down from $90)
If you’re looking to make a statement, this bright purple maxi dress is the way to go. The colour is so gorgeous and the ruched detailing is designed to look super flattering in a sophisticated and modest way.
Relaxed Fit Tailored Trousers – $35 (down from $70)
You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of tailored trousers, and this neutral sand colour is a wearable and easy-to-style addition to your closet. They offer a relaxed fit, so they’ll be comfortable to wear all day long. Plus, you can get the matching shirt and wear it as a set – outfit completed.
HOW TO NAIL THE MODEST FASHION TREND IN 2022
When it comes to looking for inspiration on how to dress modest, creator Nawal Sari sources a lot of that inspiration from other modest fashion influencers.
And what’s everyone wearing lately? Nawal said “maxi skirts are having a moment … a cute maxi skirt, leather jacket, sneakers and sunnies is the hijabi it girl look.”
When the weather gets cooler, especially in the autumn and winter seasons, Nawal goes for a slightly different direction.
“Vintage oversized leather jackets and long socks. I love the look of a long white sock paired with bright heel or loafers, and a midi or maxi skirt. Chic and warm.”
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Marina Tatas is a Shopping Writer at Best Of, covering everything from homewares to sneakers and is always on the hunt to find the best products at the best price possible. Previously, she has written for comparison site Finder, The Carousel, Women Love Tech, Marie Claire, Women’s Health and She Does This.
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