Modest Fashion Basics: 4 Pieces Every Muslimah Needs in Her Wardrobe

For most Mulsimahs, it’s far more important to have a selection of modest clothing essentials that can be worn everyday. This doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be bland and boring, though. It’s all about choosing the right modest fashion basics that can be put to use to create a range of exciting and unique modest ensembles time and time again.

Here are 4 pieces every Muslimah should have in her wardrobe to give day-to-day outfits added versatility and style.

1. Essential abayas

No modest fashion wardrobe is complete without a selection of classic abayas.

These modest fashion basics are must-haves for any Muslimah looking to give their wardrobe versatility and variety.

Ideally, you want a selection of open and closed abayas in a few timeless shades - but if you have to settle on just one colour, we’d suggest timeless, classic black as a good place to start.

Effortlessly elegant and endlessly versatile, black abayas are the ultimate modest fashion essential. With a few tweaks and accessories, you can dress your abaya up or down to suit all kinds of occasions.

For instance, a closed abaya with a stylish belt, chunky beads and some ballet pumps can make for the perfect smart-casual look for a lunch date with your friends. The same abaya matched with a pair of heels, a clutch bag and a statement brooch has you dressed to impress for an important meeting or a night out.

The key is to invest in high-quality essential abayas made from premium fabrics, giving you a trusty stylish abaya that can be worn all year round.

2. Inner slip dresses

Comfort and modesty are at the heart of modest fashion, so making sure you have a choice of soft, lightweight inner slip dresses readily on hand is key.

Most commonly worn as an under slip dress with open and closed abayas, as well as kimonos, this modest fashion basic is surprisingly versatile.

Available in a wide range of colours and fabrics, and in short and long-sleeved options, we’d suggest investing in several shades, fabrics and sleeve lengths. This will make sure you have options galore for all seasons and occasions.

For example, paler shades in light, breathable crepe fabric can be the perfect layer to help you stay cool on warm summer days, even when worn under an abaya. Soft nidha and satin, on the other hand, can lend a more luxurious look when you need something a little smarter.

You can also use your inner slip dress as part of your style statement. We love the look of pale under slip dresses against a black or burgundy abaya to create a beautiful colour contrast. Alternatively, you might prefer the monochrome look with a black inner slip and black abaya for a sleek and sophisticated ensemble.

3. Versatile hijabs

For modern Muslimahs, hijabs are already a wardrobe must-have, helping them to keep their head covered comfortably throughout the day. However, you only have to take a look at Instagram to see that they also give women the chance to express their own unique style.

For this reason, it makes sense to stock a variety of hijabs in your wardrobe, creating countless options for hijab styling.

Whether you want a classic hijab wrap or a trendy turban style, you may find you get better results with certain types of fabrics and hijab sizes. So, give your wardrobe a little update with a selection of hijabs materials. Jersey and georgette are perfect for everyday, while chiffon and nidha can add a little luxury for special occasions. Keep a few square and rectangular sizes, so you can choose the right shape and size for your chosen hijab style.

Finally, consider your colour options. Plain black and white hijabs are go-to options that are guaranteed to give you wardrobe added versatility, but there’s always room for brighter colours.

4. Accessories