Dresses over trousers, stockings as head covers, and clever layering – this year, modest fashion takes over the international runways. Photo: Luigi and lango For his Fall 2024 show, Prabal Gurung had two hijabi models walk the runway. Ugbad Abdi opened his show in an all- red look featuring a high-neck top worn under a flowing caftan, full-length gloves, and leather trousers.
Ikram Abdi donned a skirt suit, gloves, and a black jacket slung casually over her arms. For years, modest fashion was relegated to the sidelines; overshadowed by mainstream trends or an afterthought by designers. The modest dresser’s options were limited – especially with luxury fashion.
This is now changing. At Saint Laurent’s Spring show, models wore edgy belted boiler suits, while at Ferragamo, a fluid cape- style tunic was paired with trousers. Meanwhile, Balenciaga’s show was a lesson in edgy layering with minimal skin showing.
As the inclusivity narrative continues to evolve, modesty on the runway takes center stage, with designers finding exciting new ways to cover up. Saint Laurent Rianna + Nina Alaïa Prabal Gurung Issey Miyake The Middle East and North Africa region is home to 20% of the world’s Muslims and the demand for modest fashion remains high. For instance, Saudi Arabia no longer requires its residents to wear an abaya, but the Kingdom’s women still prefer covering up.
“Saudi women continue to wear the abaya because we cherish our culture, our past, and our evolving fut.