During Dubai Fashion Week, I had the chance to encounter firsthand what the fashion-forward modest dresser has in their arsenal. And while I predicted polka dot abayas to make their appearances, what I actually saw were statement hijabs. Beige sequins contrasted with a utilitarian outfit complete with combat boots. Others sported animal print and patterned designs. While the polka dot abaya still gets its flowers, on the other side there’s the polka dot hijab that’s becoming the fashion piece to cop.
However, it isn’t a new revelation. Printed hijabs have existed so long as hijabs have existed. But unlike the dated floral patterns, this new resurgence of printed hijabs comes in textures and colours that feel fresh. Overall, in the fashion industry, prints, textures, and familiar patterns have cemented themselves as the trend of the season. For the hijabi dresser, it’s just a case of choosing to adapt to the trends rather than imitating them. So instead of seeing cow print bags and plaid pants, we’re spotting the same textures on hijabs.
A brief scroll on the internet made me realise how blind I was to the trend. Between creators and brands, the current season has decided that a playful hijab is the styling hack to go.
Soha Taha took the bedazzling trend to her headscarf. Mai Edris paired a leopard print with her typical streetwear-inspired fit. Jasmin Omar paired her print with a simple cream outfit, spotlighting her hijab. Whereas creator Kishama Meridian decided to let her polka dot undercap be the focal point instead, juxtaposing it with a black hijab.
Brands are noticing and following suit. From indie labels such as Unseen Atelier to luxury labels, the current AW hijab collections are incomplete without a printed modal piece. They range from subtle ombre designs to trendy polka patterns to fuchsia pink prints inspired by Pucci. And with each print, we can witness the kind of woman wearing it: leopard for the edgy girls, geometric prints for the experimental ones, and Keffiyeh-inspired prints for those championing Palestinian heritage.
It also goes to show how the hijab has become a fashion statement in its own right. Previously, the hijab was a nifty styling tool among the fashion-forward crowd. Now the piece gets its own spotlight.
Soigné’s Edit of Printed Hijabs to Cop
Klay the Label | Black Keffiyeh Modal
Culture Hijab | Printed Chiffon Hijab — Elan
Zahraa the Label | Slate Print Modal Hijab
Veiled | Printed Modal Hijab – Stone Leopard
YMA Collective | Hob Al-Tatreez No. 3
Luxy Hijab | Ocean Mist Hijab
Haute Hijab | Print-Edge Hijab – Pewter
