Hindustan Times (Patna) - Hindustan Times (Patna) - Live
Is modest fashion on the rise?
Of late, designers and big brands have been opting for modest fashion. We take a look at this shift in the fashion world
Metallic gold ruffles neatly stitched on the sleeves, voluminous white feathered capes, shiny sequenced coats with ruffled sleeves, and long trains embellished with translucent pearls. All of these designs styled with hijabs in metallic hues were sported by models on the ramp. However, Indonesian designer Anniesa Hasibuan made history by designing the first allhijab fashion show at the New York Fashion Week last September. It was so well received that she repeated the same this year in February. Halima Aden is a 19-yearold hijab-wearing model who made her debut at the Yeezy Season 5 show and she is represented by the same agency that also handles models such as Gigi Hadid and Kaia Gerber.
Designer Ritu Kumar says, “A large population of the world sports hijabs, so it is not surprising to see their representation on the ramps.” Nike has pioneered a hi-tech hijab for Muslim female athletes. There’s also the burkini — a modest swimsuit, designed to cater to the needs of Muslim women.
Designer Rimple Narula says, “The fashion industry has always been modern and foresighted in its approach. And it’s also been inclusive whether it’s plus-size lines or transgender models or halal (religiously acceptable according to Muslim law) fashion.” Designer and owner of eponymous fashion label, Nida Mahmood, says, “Burkinis, sportswear with the hijab — I think it’s a cool idea. As much as Islam is viewed from a constricted standpoint, some designers are sending out the message that there is a lot of openness and modernisation in Islam.”
This shift in the fashion world, namely modest fashion, is now a global phenomenon. The London Modest Fashion Week by Haute Elan was held in February. Big brands such as DKNY, Mango, Dolce & Gabbana and Oscar de la Renta have offered modest fashion lines to women including apparels such as kaftan, flowing jackets, leggings and tunics.
A parade of celebrities too, opted for such outfits for their red carpet look. Actor Ruth Negga made her Oscars red carpet appearance in a Valentino — a full-sleeved tomato red gown with lacework on the bodice and a high Victorian neck lined with delicate lace cutwork.
Actor Sarah Paulson looked radiant in a gold Marc Jacobs gown with sequins running horizontally across the entire dress n waves. Floor length and full-sleeved — another example of how modest fashion is on the rise.