Sarah Ghanem
Ramadan is more than just about month-long abstinence from food and water during daylight hours. Muslims are encouraged to better themselves by spending more time reading the Quran, praying, and reflecting on their deeds.
Dressing modestly is one of the few ways Muslims can improve themselves during Ramadan. While this applies to men as well, women have to observe a stricter way of dress—clothes should not be tight, sheer, short, and expose large amounts of skin. This is probably why fashion houses and retailers like Tommy Hilfiger, Mango, and Monique Lhuillier are including Ramadan collections into their repertoire.
Not everyone can afford to purchase everything on these usually limited edition collections every Ramadan. Thankfully, there are many affordable things you can do to refresh your hijab wardrobe this Ramadan
1. Invest in DIY Projects
Upcycling what you have in your closet is one of the great ways to refresh your wardrobe. If you are a complete beginner, this may seem a little bit too much. Start with creating statement accessories, like an obi belt, from pieces in your wardrobe. Take pieces of your clothes and make it seem like new by attaching embellishments or print repeated patterns on them, Over time, this will become easier and you will eventually transform one silhouette into another or make multiple pieces of clothing into something entirely new.
2. Buy two for One
Reversible clothing is one of the best ways to get the most out of your money. If you love this year’s opulent colour palette comprising navy blue, crimson red and ivory hues from Tommy Hilfiger, try finding reversible pieces in combinations of these colours. Double-sided hijabs and maxi skirts are some of the ways to incorporate seasonal colours into your wardrobe without damaging your purse.
3. Check Unexpected Sources
Thrift shops may not be your usual fashion trawl, but they are great sources for modest clothing, especially if the particular thrift shop specialises in vintage pieces. Many proud thrift-shop fashionistas love shopping in these shops because they are able to get more for less. Alternatively, you can try finding clothes swapping communities around your area. It is a great place to get new pieces of clothes without spending anything.
4. Fill in the Gaps
Be a little diligent and figure out what you actually need. Building a coveted hijab wardrobe is not a goal that can be achieved by purchasing a 15-piece line comprising maxi skirts, dresses, abayas, long tops and accessories. You will need to identify what you have, picture your dream wardrobe, and assess what you need (and don’t need). Figuring out the gaps that you need to fill in order to help you curate the best wardrobe for you. It is also a great way to avoid paying for something that you already have.
5. Patience is a Virtue
If you are unable to peel yourself away from any of your social media channels, make the most of it. Follow your favourite retailers online so that you’ll be one of the first to know when sales begin or have access to exclusive coupon codes. This strategy is great if you have been eyeing a particular piece from the store—finding the most opportune time to purchase your dream fashion piece requires copious amount of patience.
Each of these strategies to refresh your hijab wardrobe this Ramadan will eventually let you hone some skills, from sewing to bargain hunting. Who knows, you might be able to contribute to your local community while practicing one of the most favoured practice in Islam: modesty.
Sarah is a happy Muslimah who is passionate about modern, yet modest Islamic clothing for women. She is always on the lookout for the latest hijab styles, and she happily shares her ideas at Modanisa.
