Modest clothing: Jumpsuits

Hijab Style Focus

There are some ups and downs when it comes to jumpsuits. As a style staple in most collections now, and having recently designed one, I thought I’d give you the low down.

Ups

• If you get the right kind they can be loose around the waist in a way that trousers are not.
• They are easy to move in, practical if you do lots of running around.
• They can look amazing, dressed up or casual depending on the accessories and cover-ups (think cardigain or blazer.
• There are lots of ways to make them hijab friendly, see the tips below.
• In the same way that an abaya holds a look together, a jumpsuit can be the perfect blank canvas to get creative with.
• When they’re good, they’re very, very good.

Downs

Now for the bad news…

• Realise that if you need a quick trip to the ladies room you’ll have to take the whole top down (so make sure you’re wearing something underneath else it can get chilly!)
• It’s difficult to find a style that is totally loose and not cinched in at the waist. This Derek Lam design (right) gives the option of having it loose or pulling in at the waist.
• When they’re bad, they’re tragic!

Islamic Style Jumpsuits: The designers

Aside from Derek Lam there are a few other designers we can take hijab inspiration from. Max Mara, Missoni, and Zero Maria Cornejo have opted for a boyish, straight up and down silhouette. For an altogether more flouncy jumpsuit check out Proenza Schouler.

How to Hijabify

If we go on the motion that we’ve got a loose base, most probably sleeveless there are a few tips to get it more Islamic.

1. Treat it a bit like a maxi dress, so go for long cardigans or jackets (like the first Derek Lam outfit)

2. Jumpsuit are a style statement all of their own so it might be a good idea to keep the hijab simple

3. If you’re having a problem with covering your chest then go for a lightweight scarf. Worn like a keffiyah, square scarves are great for this.

4. If the the jumpsuit is very plain then go big on accessories to stop it looking sack-like or boiler-suity.

5. Look out for pleats or gathering this creates lots of hijab friendly loose volume.

6. If it has a fastening down the front then try wearing a long sleeved top underneath, this is a great look (try and imagine it on the Max Mara suit in the centre above)

7. This one’s pretty obvious but, stay away from anything other than FULL length, there’s no magic way to hide those ankles I’m afraid.