The Problem with MODEST FASHION

Introduction

In this section, the speaker introduces the topic of modest fashion and how it has impacted her life.

Modest Fashion and its Impact

• The modest fashion industry has done a lot for younger girls who haven't felt seen.

• Fashion plays a big role in expressing oneself as a hijabi Muslim woman.

• Modesty is about being judged by what you have to say and your character, not just your appearance.

Personal Reflection on Fashion

In this section, the speaker shares her personal experience with fashion and how she became interested in it.

Early Interest in Fashion

• The speaker had an early interest in fashion but didn't have the skills or talent for it.

• She was complimented at an event for looking like a fashion blogger, which made her feel good.

• The modest fashion scene on social media helped her gain confidence and dress differently.

Humorous Interlude

In this section, the speaker takes a humorous break from discussing modest fashion.

Doctor Tazzy?

• The speaker jokes about pursuing a career as a doctor so she can wear a white coat.

Modest Fashion Scene

In this section, the speaker discusses the growth of the modest fashion scene.

Growth of Modest Fashion Scene

• The modest fashion scene became accessible through social media influencers like Asia Winnie Detois and Dina Tokio.

• More bloggers emerged over time, making modest fashion more mainstream.

• The market grew, and modest fashion became more accessible and normal.

Modest Fashion Movement

In this section, the speaker explores some questions about the modest fashion movement.

Questions About Modest Fashion Movement

• Has the modest fashion movement replaced one beauty standard with another?

• Are we exploiting some to empower others?

• Is there any spiritual value in any of this, or are we completely missing the point?

The Irony of Muslim Representation in Fashion

In this section, the speakers discuss the irony of wanting to be represented in fashion while also creating a new beauty standard that excludes certain groups. They also touch on the issue of diversity within the Muslim modest fashion scene.

Creating a New Beauty Standard

• The speakers note that the Muslim fashion industry has created its own version of the Barbie complex, where there is a particular type of hijab and outfit that is considered cool.

• This new beauty standard excludes those who do not fit into a certain body type or complexion, which goes against the idea of inclusivity and representation.

• The speakers argue that instead of trailblazing what diverse fashion looks like, Muslims have fallen into copying mainstream standards.

Lack of Diversity in Muslim Modest Fashion

• The speakers note that many top Muslim fashion bloggers look similar and wear similar outfits, leading to a lack of diversity within the industry.

• This lack of diversity can make young girls feel insecure if they do not fit into this mold.

• The speakers argue that placing value on external things will only create a monster and perpetuate exclusionary standards.

• They cite an example from 2017 where Manal noticed no black Muslim women representation at Dubai Fashion Week.

Takeaways

• It's important for everyone to speak up about these issues and not just rely on one person to do so.

• We need to find ways to make modest dressing advice without it becoming another standard or cookie-cutter expectation.

• Going back to one's roots can help with confidence in dressing modestly.

• Empowerment comes from one's connection to hijab, not just wearing it because everyone else is.

The Impact of Fast Fashion on People and the Planet

In this section, the speaker discusses the negative impact of fast fashion on people and the planet. She highlights how fast fashion contributes to sweatshops, toxic chemicals used in clothing production, and even ties with genocide.

Negative Impact of Fast Fashion

• Fast fashion contributes to sweatshops where workers are exploited.

• Toxic chemicals used in clothing production have been linked to miscarriages, birth defects, and cancer.

• Some companies that produce fast fashion have ties with genocide.

• It's not as simple as being either pro-fast fashion or anti-clothing. The issue is more complicated than that.

Complications in Addressing Fast Fashion

• Changing how we produce things will take a long time.

• Countries have invested in certain product pools (e.g., garments), making it difficult for them to shift out of them quickly.

• These countries purposely choose these avenues to give income; it's not as simple as just stopping production altogether.

• Labor laws are regulated within each country, so technically we don't have a say in why certain laborers are mistreated.

Solutions for Addressing Fast Fashion

• We can take away our money and purchasing power from companies that contribute to fast fashion.

• Consume less and consume with quality and longevity in mind.

The Role of Modest Fashion in Islam

In this section, the speaker discusses the concept of modest fashion in Islam and how it relates to spirituality.

Modesty as a Belief System

• Modesty is an important part of Islamic belief system.

• Dressing modestly is a way to carry oneself with humility and respect.

• People often police Muslim women's clothing choices on the internet.

Fashion and Spirituality

• Fashion can be a tool for getting closer to one's faith.

• There is nothing wrong with wanting nice things as long as it doesn't interfere with one's faith.

• Propagating modest fashion has a higher meaning for Muslim women.

Superficiality in Fashion

In this section, the speaker discusses whether or not fashion is superficial and how it can become so.

The Superficiality of Fashion

• Some people view fashion as frivolous and superficial.

• However, for Muslim women who propagate modest fashion, it already has a higher meaning.

• Ignoring meaningful issues like social justice or fundraising can make hijab fashion superficial.

Dressing for God vs. Others

• Dressing modestly is ultimately for God, not others.

• It's okay to dress in a way that makes oneself happy, even if it's not socially acceptable or common.

The Ethics of Modest Fashion

In this section, the speaker discusses the potential dangers of becoming too invested in fashion and losing sight of one's core values. She also emphasizes the importance of making decisions based on internal factors rather than external influences.

The Dangers of Becoming Too Invested in Fashion

• Losing sight of one's core values by placing too much emphasis on fashion and material possessions.

• Feeling a sense of competitiveness and disappointment when comparing oneself to others based on their fashion choices.

• Becoming spiritually empty when fashion becomes solely about portraying one's best outfit rather than aligning with one's internal values.

Placing Faith in Social Media Influencers

• The danger of placing faith in social media influencers as spiritual guides for oneself.

• Emphasizing the importance of living for oneself and making decisions based on internal factors rather than external influences.

Taking What You Want from the Industry

• Encouraging individuals to take what they want from the fashion industry while aligning it with their own personal values.

• Emphasizing that motivation should come from deep intrinsic reasons rather than superficial desires.

Being Positive While Speaking Up About Issues

• Acknowledging that the fashion industry is not perfect but encouraging individuals to take the best from it while leaving the rest.

• Encouraging individuals to speak up about issues they see within the industry while maintaining a positive attitude.

Overall, the speaker emphasizes that while modest fashion can be a positive thing, it is important to maintain perspective and make decisions based on internal factors rather than external influences.