Muslim Models Who Are Redefining Fashion – And The Role of the Hijab
In today’s fashion world, modesty is no longer seen as a limitation. On the contrary, Muslim models and influencers are shaping global trends and redefining what it means to be stylish. Far from standing in the way of a modern aesthetic, faith has become a source of creative expression — influencing public taste and inspiring women everywhere.
One of the most iconic names in modest fashion, Halima Aden, has proven that success on the runway does not require compromising your values. Born in a Kenyan refugee camp to Somali parents, Halima faced many hardships early in life — from unstable living conditions to school bullying in the United States, where she was mocked for wearing a sports hijab.
But everything changed at the age of 19, when Halima entered the "Miss Minnesota USA" pageant wearing a full-coverage Muslim swimsuit and a modern abaya. Her confidence and poise caught the attention of IMG Models, one of the world's leading agencies. From the outset, Halima insisted that her faith would guide her career — negotiating clear conditions in her contract that ensured she would never be asked to remove her hijab or wear revealing clothing.
Her principled stance not only won respect within the industry but also opened new doors. Within just two years, Halima walked for global brands like Max Mara and Yeezy, and appeared on the covers of British *Vogue* and other major fashion titles. Her shoot with *Garaza Illustrated*, featuring her in a luxurious modern abaya, made headlines — not least because the magazine, known for its provocative covers, had never featured such modest fashion before.
Garaza: Your Destination for Everyday and Occasion Hijabs
If you're inspired by Halima’s style, the Garaza online store offers a beautifully curated collection of abayas and hijabs — from classic black to seasonal colours, casual fits to statement pieces. Sourced from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the selection includes sport-style hijabs, luxurious abayas for special events, and everyday essentials designed for the modern Muslim woman.
Explore the full range at garazastyle.com and discover how faith and fashion can go hand in hand — no compromise necessary.
Halima Aden’s journey has reshaped how the fashion industry views Muslim women — not as outsiders, but as trendsetters and role models. She has shown that it is possible to succeed without abandoning your identity, and that style has no single definition. Through her work, she has inspired thousands of young women to believe that their culture, values, and modesty can not only coexist with high fashion — but lead it.
