When fashion began pushing the boundaries of diversity in recent times, body shape and skin colour in model representation have always been front of mind. However, young, Muslim style influencers like Nawal Sari, are proving diversity stretches much further than that – a truly inclusive fashion industry considers not only what you look like, but what you believe in. Authentically herself and unapologetically Muslim, Nawal talks about what it means to dress modern and modestly in today’s society, while being a true role model to a young religious community, she calls her sisterhood.
Photography: Peter Van Alphen
Who is Nawal Sari?
I’m a 21 year old digital content creator and influencer. I also study a full-time degree in communications and advertising.
Tell us about your journey to “redefine modest fashion”?
Growing up, I loved fashion and beauty. When I put the hijab on, I felt like I didn’t fit into that industry anymore purely because I didn’t see women like me in mainstream media. Muslim women were always perceived as male dominated and oppressive, my reality was the opposite. I have always been surrounded by empowering and strong women, so the altered reality perceived online left me hurt.
When I finished school I was studying a political degree, I later transferred to a creative degree and realised I shouldn’t have abandoned my passions due to the lack of representation of my community.
I started off with a few modelling jobs and working retail and posted my Instagram photos for fun. Later my audience grew and so did my connection to my followers online and I realised the impact my work had in minor and major ways. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to redefine the stigma associated with modest fashion and unapologetically be myself. For me, fashion is fun and a form of self-expression.
Women should dress however they like.
Modest fashion is simply like all fashion communities, yet it’s underestimated. Modest fashion is for everyone and it’s beautiful.
What does modest fashion mean to you?
Modest fashion is personal to everyone. To some, it’s wearing longer or looser pieces and to some – like me – it means wearing a hijab and dressing modestly to reflect my connection with my religion. Modest fashion is simply like all fashion communities, yet it’s underestimated. Modest fashion is for everyone and it’s beautiful.
Describe your style
My style is always changing. Some days I’m channelling 70s disco, some days it’s an edgy thrifted look. I genuinely love so many different styles and I dress however I feel that day. I get my inspiration from tonnes of images saved on Instagram, and so many fashion girl crushes! I of course get inspired by my mum and sisters – we all love using Pinterest to save cute outfits.
What changes would you like to see when it comes to modest fashion in Australia and the world?
Globally the modest fashion industry is rapidly growing. Australia has a large community of women who also fit into this industry and it’s great to see Australian brands, like Witchery, embrace this. I would love to see more authentic representation and work towards genuinely diversifying (rather than as a token).
What are your top modest fashion tips for the summer season?
1. Invest in a good nude/skin tone singlet. Wearing these under fairly transparent tops which are cool for summer weather make all the difference instead of layering too much.
2. Linen! I’m obsessed with linen currently. I love wearing long and modest linen pieces that look super luxe, plus they are super on trend and perfect for Aussie summers.
3. Go for a lighter colour palette in your wardrobe. It seems simple but it makes all the difference. By wearing a lighter coloured hijab and outfit during hot weather, it helps keep you cool but also stylish.
What changes would you like to see when it comes to modest fashion in Australia and the world?
Globally the modest fashion industry is rapidly growing. Australia has a large community of women who also fit into this industry and it’s great to see Australian brands, like Witchery, embrace this. I would love to see more authentic representation and work towards genuinely diversifying (rather than as a token).
What have been the biggest lessons or hurdles in your career journey?
The biggest lesson I have learnt is to be ‘me’. To be authentically me means I will never second guess myself and will authentically grow. A hurdle I have had to overcome is the ignorant misconceptions and negative reactions from people who do not believe in the power of my work.
You are regarded as role model for many other Muslim women, what does this mean to you?
It’s scary and beautiful. When I started my social media, I never thought this would happen. I count my blessings each day and truly appreciate my little sisterhood online community. I just hope they see me as an older sister and a friend, so I continue to positively influence them.
We are coming close to the end of an unprecedented year, what have you learnt from living through a global pandemic in 2020?
So much! I realised the importance of self-care, the importance of self-love, I realised that my life plans are simply paving their own way and I must be present and happy in each step I take. 2020 was tough for everyone and I hope we call come out of this stronger than ever.
What is next for Nawal Sari?
I have so many goals! I have personal goals for my mental health and milestones with my family and friends I wish to achieve this year too. When it comes to my career, I hope to further my platform and further connect. I love what I do and I see so much potential to positively impact. I also would love to see myself travelling but we all know the situation with that... hopefully one day soon.