Modest fashion sometimes isn’t just about fashion. Modesty is a lifestyle I have chosen because of my Islamic faith. There are certain guidelines I follow for the way I dress, but I also try to be modest in my behavior as well – how I speak about myself, what I choose to consume, and how I behave with others. This concept also exists in Judaism. Why do Muslim and Jewish shared values of modesty matter to me? First, I am a strong proponent of developing interfaith relationships. Second, when the connector has something to do with fashion, I am all about it!
Modesty in Islam
There are a few verses in the Quran regarding the concept of modesty and dressing for women: Surah Al-Araf, verse 26, Surah An-Nur, verse 31, and Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 59. Not proselytizing or debating what constitutes modesty, just giving context to what guides my way of dressing.
The Jewish Concept of Modesty
I had to do some research about modesty in Judaism and found a few articles on My Jewish Learning. You can read them here and here. Tzniut is the Hebrew word for the concept of modesty in dress and behavior in Judaism. As in all religions, I have learned there are a variety of interpretations of Tzniut. Islam and Judaism share the idea that modesty should permeate our very way of being.
Muslim Jewish Fashion
Social media has a lot of pitfalls, but for me it has opened up a world of modest fashion. It has also helped me see how modest fashion connects people we would otherwise assume are so very different than ourselves.
One such person is Rachelle Yadegar, co-owner of Raju Official. Though 15 years younger than me and of the Orthodox Jewish faith, we are quite similar in our modest fashion sense. I ordered a dress from Raju Official, and I love it! The long sleeve midi dress below is the Liana in coral in size medium. The dresses are made here in the US. Affiliate links for other items: sunglasses, necklace, handbag, shoes.
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