Promoting modesty in the fashion world
MODEST fashion and style blogs featuring modest clothing inspiration continue to gain momentum with fashion enthusiasts, global brands and runways. Muslim influencers are diversifying the fashion industry, leading a fashion revolution like never before and the world is paying attention. From high-end designers offering contemporary modest to mainstream media and social media, this business, which was once a niche market, is a rapidly growing sector. Modest fashion influencer, designer and part time stylist Nabilah Kariem is an influential South African social media personality who is promoting modesty in the fashion world. We chat to Kariem about her life and career, and she shares her Eid al-Fitr style inspiration with us.
Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself ?
A: I am a modest fashion influencer, designer and part time stylist. I’m also a newly-wed, so right now I am really all about my career and my marriage.
Q: What is your definition of fashion?
A: Fashion, or the way you choose to dress, speaks for you without using words. It’s a reflection of self.
Q: How would you describe your personal style?
A: Classic chic, with a pop of trend. And modest, of course. My religion plays a big role in the way I choose to dress (“a reflection of self”).
Q: What about your journey to modesty, have you always dressed like you do now?
A: No, not at all. I’ve had so many phases, but I think I’ve always really been into fashion. Growing up and understanding my religion is what changed things the most, it gave me clarity with regard to fashion and what I want to do with it.
Q: What will you be wearing this Autumn/Winter season? Any trends that have caught your eye?
A: Oversized tops is definitely my go-to this season, they are so trendy yet so comfy. I’ve also been playing around with variations of cool sleeve details, if you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know how obsessed I am.
Q: Who are your favourite modest fashion bloggers? And how do they influence your style?
A: Definitely Ascia AKF (a blogger from Kuwait).
I love the way she layers her clothes. She has the perfect balance of the east and the west incorporated in her looks.
Q: What would you say is the best way to generate income from fashion blogging?
A: The best way to monetise your fashion blog/social media platform is to not monetise it for as long as you possibly can.
The social media generation grew up watching ads and sponsored posts, they can spot them from a mile away.
Usually, when a blogger takes