Better representation in fashion is certainly a huge issue. While diversity is still lacking, thankfully enough, we have seen some progress in the industry. A great example is Vogue Arabia, which featured three Black Hijabi models on their cover.
Models Halima Aden, Ikram Abdi Omar, and Amina Adan made history as the face of the April issue which focused on breaking myths and stereotypes attached to modest fashion and Muslim women. In the article which accompanies the cover, Aden shares, “I think it’s important to remember that wearing a hijab is a woman’s personal choice. It doesn’t make her any better or worse than another Muslim woman. To me, it symbolizes modesty and gives me a sense of power.”
The three also shed light to discrimination they experienced as young Muslim women. Adan said, “Most people are afraid to ask questions and have a conversation about it, even if they are genuinely curious. All they know about Muslim people stems from the news or videos on the Internet about women not having the same rights as men.”
This is obviously a conversation we need to be having, and netizens agree. Many turned to social media to applaud Vogue Arabia for their move.
Now, if only other publications can follow…
Photo courtesy of Vogue Arabia’s Instagram account
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