Modest Fashion Finds Friends Among Non-Muslims

Picture this: a young woman walks into a bustling café, her outfit turning heads—not because it’s flashy or revealing, but because it’s effortlessly elegant. She’s wearing a flowing midi dress paired with a tailored blazer, and a silk scarf artfully draped around her neck. At first glance, you might assume she’s Muslim, given the modest cut of her clothing. But here’s the twist—she’s not. This is the new face of modest fashion, a movement that’s quietly reshaping how we think about style, identity, and inclusivity.

What started as a niche market rooted in religious tradition has blossomed into something much bigger. Modest fashion, once synonymous with Islamic attire like hijabs and abayas, is now finding fans among people of all faiths—and even those who don’t follow any religion at all. It’s no longer just about covering up; it’s about making a statement. Whether it’s celebrities gracing red carpets in covered-up couture or influencers posting #ModestFashion inspiration on Instagram, this trend is proving that modesty can be bold, beautiful, and, yes, mainstream.

Related: What I Want Non-Muslims to Know About My Hijab

From Faith to Fashion: How Did We Get Here?

To truly appreciate the rise of modest fashion, it helps to understand its roots. For many Muslim women, dressing modestly isn’t just a cultural norm—it’s an expression of faith, dignity, and personal empowerment. The hijab, for instance, isn’t just a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol of devotion and self-respect. Similarly, loose-fitting dresses, long skirts, and layered ensembles have long been staples of modest wardrobes.

But here’s where things get interesting. As these styles gained visibility through social media and global events like London Modest Fashion Week, they began attracting attention from unexpected quarters. Suddenly, non-Muslim women—and men—started noticing the elegance and versatility of modest fashion. It wasn’t just about religion anymore; it was about redefining what “fashionable” could look like.

Take Rihanna, for example. When she launched her Savage X Fenty lingerie line, one of the most talked-about moments was the inclusion of hijab-wearing models strutting down the runway. This wasn’t just token diversity; it was a deliberate nod to the beauty of modesty. Brands like DKNY, Tommy Hilfiger, and Mango followed suit, releasing collections aimed at Ramadan shoppers—but guess what? Those pieces weren’t just flying off the shelves during the holy month. People of all backgrounds were buying them year-round.

Why Are Non-Muslims Jumping On Board?

So why are so many non-Muslims embracing modest fashion? The reasons are as varied as the people themselves, but a few key themes stand out.

For starters, let’s talk about comfort. In a world obsessed with crop tops, bodycon dresses, and barely-there bikinis, modest fashion offers a refreshing alternative. “I used to feel like I had to squeeze into clothes that didn’t make me feel good about myself,” says Sarah Thompson, a 29-year-old teacher from Chicago. “Then I discovered modest fashion, and it changed everything. Now I wear flowy skirts, oversized blazers, and scarves that actually make me feel confident.”

And it’s not just about physical comfort—it’s mental too. There’s something empowering about choosing outfits that prioritize your own sense of self-worth over societal expectations. Instead of worrying about whether your outfit is “too revealing,” you can focus on feeling great in your own skin.

Another big draw? Modest fashion aligns perfectly with the growing push for sustainability. Fast fashion thrives on constant reinvention, churning out cheap, trendy pieces designed to be discarded after a season. Modest fashion, on the other hand, leans into timeless silhouettes and high-quality fabrics that last.

“I realized I didn’t need ten versions of the same thing,” explains Emma Liu, a sustainable fashion advocate based in San Francisco. “Instead, I invested in versatile staples like a tailored trench coat, a classic maxi dress, and a couple of really good scarves. These pieces work for multiple occasions, and they’re built to last.”

It’s a win-win: you reduce waste while building a wardrobe that feels intentional and curated.

There’s also a deeper, more meaningful reason behind the trend. For many non-Muslims, embracing modest fashion is a way to connect with cultures outside their own. Wearing a headscarf or experimenting with abaya-inspired designs isn’t about appropriation—it’s about appreciation.

Consider Halima Aden, the Somali-American model who made history as the first hijabi to appear in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue. Her presence challenged stereotypes and sparked conversations about beauty standards. Fans inspired by her journey often try incorporating similar elements into their own wardrobes, using fashion as a bridge to better understand different perspectives.

“It’s not just about the clothes,” says Mia Patel, a college student from New York. “When I wear a hijab-inspired scarf or a long skirt, I’m reminded of the strength and resilience of the women who paved the way for this kind of representation. It makes me want to learn more about their stories.”

Celebrities Leading the Way

Let’s face it: celebrities have a knack for setting trends, and modest fashion is no exception. Zendaya, for instance, consistently wows audiences with her elegant, covered-up looks, thanks in large part to her collaboration with stylist Law Roach. From sweeping gowns to chic pantsuits, her outfits prove that modest doesn’t mean boring.

Then there’s Bella Hadid, who has been spotted rocking hijab-inspired scarves and draped dresses at high-profile events. Even Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has embraced modesty in her wardrobe choices, opting for knee-length hemlines and demure necklines during royal engagements.

These icons aren’t just influencing their fans—they’re normalizing modest fashion in spaces where it might otherwise feel out of place. Seeing someone like Zendaya rock a floor-length gown on the red carpet sends a powerful message: modest fashion isn’t limited to any one group. It’s universal.

Retailers Take Notice

The commercial potential of modest fashion hasn’t gone unnoticed by major retailers. In recent years, brands like Uniqlo, H&M, and Nike have introduced modest-friendly lines, including sports hijabs and abaya-inspired outerwear. Luxury designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Oscar de la Renta have also jumped on board, creating collections that cater to modest dressers.

Even more telling is the rise of dedicated platforms. Websites like Haute Hijab and Modanisa offer everything from everyday basics to couture gowns, catering exclusively to modest shoppers. Meanwhile, events like London Modest Fashion Week attract attendees from diverse backgrounds, proving that this trend transcends religion.

Challenges Along the Way

Of course, no movement is without its challenges. Some critics worry that the commercialization of hijabs and abayas risks diluting their spiritual significance. Others fear that non-Muslims adopting these styles may inadvertently perpetuate cultural misunderstandings.

But proponents argue that fashion has always been fluid, borrowing and blending influences from various sources. As long as the intent remains respectful and informed, cross-cultural exchanges can foster mutual understanding rather than division.

“Fashion is a language,” says designer Zaynab Al-Saadi. “And when we borrow elements from another culture, we’re not erasing its meaning—we’re expanding its reach. The key is to approach it with humility and curiosity.”

A Movement That Goes Beyond Clothes

At its core, the rise of modest fashion among non-Muslims represents more than just a shift in style—it’s a reflection of changing attitudes toward beauty, identity, and inclusivity. Whether driven by comfort, sustainability, or cultural curiosity, millions of people are discovering the joy of dressing with intention.

As this movement continues to grow, it reminds us that fashion isn’t just about what we wear—it’s about how we choose to present ourselves to the world. And in a world increasingly divided by differences, modest fashion serves as a unifying force, bringing together individuals from all walks of life under the shared banner of grace, dignity, and style.

So the next time you’re shopping for a new outfit, consider reaching for something a little different—a flowy kaftan, a sleek scarf, or a tailored blazer. You might just find yourself part of a quiet revolution that’s redefining what it means to be fashionable.