launch Issue

launch
Issue
MAY 2016
Cover Magazine
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B
Cover Magazine

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Letter
from the
chair
woman
I’ve always thought that coming to know one another was the most beautiful part about having
differences. Today I am pleased to tell you that your greatest moment is now. This is the moment in which
you will come to know yourself and all those that are different from you in beautiful ways. When you seek
answers to life’s mysteries, you will be amazed as you find them in places you weren’t looking: while learning of
someone’s life journey, favorite styles, relationship tips, healthy tones, latest discoveries, and powerful success
advice will surely trigger inspiration in you and perhaps even compel you to approach your own life differently.
Cover magazine is special for many reasons, but at the top of that list is the fact that each issue will be overseen
by a different Editor in Chief. I am pleased to introduce the warm, loving, and sincere Franka Soeria as the
Editor in Chief for this launch issue. With a stunning background in fashion and publications, Franka has an eye
for style and a heart for unity…a beautiful combination and no doubt, you will see this reflect in each page of
this issue. She will then hand over the baton to her chosen Editor In Chief candidate for the next issue; and the
tradition will continue in this way.
It is said that we are all created from one soul; and that’s what makes us the human family that we are. That’s
likely why our hearts rejoice when we see happy times in other people’s lives and similarly we feel that pang of
pain when we see suffering; and when we feel anything other than these two things, it is just our heart’s way
of telling us that we need to ‘come back’ to being whole with the soul again. This is the place where we are all
one, in different ways; we embrace modesty, in different ways; and we all speak the same language, in different
ways. I am delighted and honored to welcome you to the launch issue of Cover Magazine; this is life…and now
it’s yours too.
Sincerely,
Alia Khan
Founder and Chairwoman, IFDC
Alia.Khan@IFDCouncil.org
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a Note
from the
Editor in
Chief
Fashion needs to get global recognition. It needs global media
and a platform that unites all modest fashion players around the
“Modest
world. Until recently, everything was randomly spread, there was no
unification. We are trying hard to fit into mainstream paradigms, while actually
we have our own unique abilities that must be fully realized. Why don’t we start
today? Why don’t we start to make modest fashion and modest life the new
global trend?
I am here in Cover Magazine to create a global media for modest fashiontogether
with the awesome leaders of IFDC from all over the world.
Let’s start to create a borderless world of modest fashion and empower each
other, building block by building block. The time is now.”
Warmest regards,
Franka Soeria
Country Manager
IFDC Turkey
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Masthead
Chairwoman :
Alia Khan
Editor in Chief :
Franka Soeria
Editors :
Aydha Mehnaz, Roshan Isaacs, Ritza Janse Van Rensburg,
Dilyara Sadrieva
Writers:
Alia Khan, Franka Soeria, Aydha Mehnaz, Roshan Isaacs,
Ritza Janse Van Rensburg, Dilyara Sadrieva, Elrico
Bellingan, Hanna Sow, Malika Laurent, Ismail Semin,
Kezban Karagoz
Design Graphic:
Ezra Saraswati
Cover Shoot Credits
JACKET and DRESS
ERRE at Bromwell Boutique
PHOTOGRAPHER
Tegan Smith Photography
MODEL
Victoria Scholtz of TopCo International
Models
LOCATION
Protea Hotel Fire and Ice Cape Town,
South Africa
MAKE UP
La’eeqa Yunus of Head to Toe Makeup
and Hairstyling School
SCARVES
Style Africa
STYLIST
Roshan Isaacs
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6 Cover Magazine
TABLE
OF
CONTENTs

COVER MAGAZINE
THE LAUNCH ISSUE
Modest Fashion Around The Globe page 8 & 9
Cover Asia page 11 - 20
Cover Middle East page 21 - 34
Cover Europe page 35 - 52
Cover America page 51 - 62
Cover Africa page 65 - 78
Cover Australia page 79 - 88
Cover Global page 89 - 100
Cover Behind The Scenes page 101 - 106
IFDC page 107 - 120
Cover Magazine is owned by Islamic Fashion and Design Council (IFDC).
For more information about IFDC, please visit: IFDCouncil.org
Find us via social media: @ifdc_org (instagram), Islamic Fashion and Design Council (FB page)
Cover Magazine
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Modest Fashion
Around The Globe
The Modest fashion industry has risen to the surface from the
collective effort of women around the globe who love to dress
modestly. These women took over the fashion narrative by
storm via the internet, showing how wearing longer and more
loose styles can be so Divine.
They have made their statement in fashion - that is, choosing to
cover is not being oppressed but it’s stylish and classy. ..
Written by Franka Soeria
photos courtesy of Modanisa.com
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terms of style; what’s considered cool in one country is not
necessarily cool in another country. The “cool” is localized.
Culture plays a big role here but often the fusion inclination
begins to seep through. We can find brighter colors in an
outfit in South Asia & Southeast Asia and more calm colors
in Western regions. This includes the styling of the scarves,
which tend to inspire across borders hence making this
network of styling something magnificent.
Relatable Style
Modest fashion also has its own set of challenges.
While the mainstream fashion society can appreciate
unique couture or high-end fashion, some modest fashion
communities do tend to appreciate styles that are relatable
for their daily lives. Popular instagram accounts like @
hijabfashion, @hijabmuslim and @alahijabofficial serve as
style inspiration for this group. Of course also noting the
important figures like @dinatokio, @ascia_akf and many
more.
The modest wear industry started from a woman’s
personal need to wear modest styles, which are often
expressed through social media to inspire their
friends who also love to dress modestly and stylisghly.
The love of covering has then transformed to a multi
billion dollar business by designers and brands around the
globe.
A Localized Market
Modest fashion has been considered a communitybusiness.
There were no big brands serving this market
when it first started. There were no global brands, media,
events, or global trends of modest fashion. That is why
modest fashion didn’t “speak the same language” and varied
from region to region as women’s interpretations and
personal taste did. Modest fashion has become diverse in
Going Mainstream
Modest fashion is growing in many countries, including
places like Brunei, Darussalam and Nigeria. In terms of
innovation and exposure, Indonesia and Malaysia are one
of the leading countries in this sector. Both governments
are actively supporting many initiatives to promote their
local modest fashion talents. Indonesian designers are now
becoming regulars in many international events, including
mainstream events such as Couture New York Fashion Week,
Cannes Film Festival, and London Fashion Week. Malaysian
designers are more actively participating in community
events such as Moslem Lifestyle Show or Halal Expo.
While Southeast Asians go to many countries to promote
their designs, designers from European/ Western countries
are being discovered everywhere due to their accessibility
and available platforms. Brands such as Modanisa.com and
Aab Collection are among the strongest European brands on
the scene and have been featured in major media around the
globe. The unique facts are most European/ Western brands
are focused on selling, while Southeast Asians are mostly
about branding. Southeast Asians tend to be the whistleblowers
who validate modest fashion to the mainstream
community, while the others work as suppliers of modest
fashion to the market.
Diversity in Unity
With all the potential that modest fashion has, there
is only one task left for us; we must come together on a
global platform made for everybody in the industry. This
global platform will function as the bridge and a medium
to connect, collaborate and create bigger opportunities for
the industry. The Islamic Fashion and Design Council is
likely that platform and growing strong; it’s platform that
is genuine and sincerely built for everyone. In the end, we
are all One and we must all come together and build on this
strength.
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photos courtesy of Norma Hauri Photographer: Shadtoto Prasetio Fashion Stylist: Thornandes James MUA: Adrian Surya
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Designerprofile
Hannie Hananto-Indonesia
Points From
The Black & White Queen
Meet Hannie Hananto, one of the strongest modest
fashion designers of Indonesia. She graduated in
Architechture and infused this architectural angle
into her designs. Check out these 7 facts to learn
more about the original Black & White Queen!
Written by: Franka Soeria photos by: Hannie Hananto
I started designing modestwear when I participated
1. in joining a fashion design competition by Noor
Magazine, back in 2003. I was the runner-up at that
time. After that I havent stopped designing!
I design for modern muslim women, the dynamic
2. working mother and wife who needs simple, modern
and elegant looks for the age ranging 20-50 years.
I can say that I have achieved most of my goals,
3. one of the biggest was doing a collaboration with a
big brand – The Executive for 3 years in a row. What I
haven’t achieved is to unite all modest fashion designers
and brands to fight the copy-cat and to limit the
importation of clothes from abroad.
Mostly my designs come in 2 colours; Black and
4. White. Black with its mystery and masculinity.
White with its purity and femininity. These colors
complete each other like lines and shapes do in
architecture.
The trend of modest fashion in Indonesia is created
5. automatically by its nature, Dian Pelangi with her
tye dye, Ria Miranda with shabby chic style. Society loves
these trends and many copy them. Indonesia has never
run out of innovations.
With co-founders, we created Hijabers Mom
6. Community. The community is a sisterhood, not a
market. By supporting each other, we’ve become strong.
We’ve grown from 300 members in 2011 to 16.000
members today and counting. We are a big sisterhood of
Indonesian women!
Indonesian modestwear is representative of the
7. Indonesian Muslim. We are a friendly nation even
though we come from a really diverse background.
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Name
Hannie Hananto
Education
Architect Engineering
Association
IFC (Indonesian Fashion
Chamber)
Community
HijabersMom Community
Indonesia
Birthday
13 May 1971
Website
www.hanniehananto.com
Email
hannie.hananto@yahoo.co.id
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EVENT
Jakarta
Fashion Week
The Inside Scoop!
Cover Magazine interviews Rubinni Kartohadiprodjo to learn more
about the success behind Jakarta Fashion Week and why this event is
so important for the growing modest fashion industry!
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Jakarta Fashion Week is the largest
annual fashion week in Indonesia – what
makes this fashion week so successful?
What we think makes a fashion week successful, is the
vast audience from different markets around the globe
who view and pay attention to our fashion week. It is not
only measured through the number of global visitors who
attend the event, but also through the number of image
downloads from our image library. In addition, another
way to measure our position in the global fashion market
is through the number of global strategic alliance partners
we are connected with. Presently we are connected with
numerous global strategic partners from Australia, Thailand,
Korea, Japan, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Italy,
and of course a global organization like IFDC. This year we
presented Norma Hauri at Tokyo Fashion Week, Rani Hatta
at Bangkok’s BIFF & BIL, Dian Pelangi at London’s Fashion
Scout, and ETU at the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
What can we expect from JFW 2017 and
how will this year be different from
previous fashion weeks?
Like every other year where we present Jakarta Fashion
Week (which is similar and on the same standards as any
other fashion week around the globe), the key in each
showcase is to recognize the trends for the next coming
year. For JFW 2017 this year we are expecting more global
attention to our event.
What is the IFF program all about?
Indonesia Fashion Forward is a collaborative business
capacity program (since 2012) together with the British
Council and London based Centre of Fashion Enterprise.
This curative and intensive program serves as a capacitybuilding
program with a vision to groom a select group of
designers to become regional and even international players
by providing them with the right business teachings and
branding strategy.
What role do you want Jakarta to play in
the global modest fashion scene?
The current trend in Indonesia have presented that modest
fashion is rising. The number of people who are creating
a hype around modest wear has grown tremendously over
the past few years. These numbers are also presented in the
global market. Therefore, Jakarta Fashion Week will always
support modest fashion wear not only through presenting
modest wear fashion showcases, but also by providing the
correct fashion business capacity mentorship program better
known as Indonesia Fashion Forward. Hence the handpicked
brands will be ready to extend their market globally. Our aim
for Jakarta Fashion Week is to become one of the key global
modest wear platforms.
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THE TEXTURES
AND THE PRINTS
Argo Apparel Group (AAG) collaborates with Indonesian designers to create
national brands. Two of them- I.sha and Run Thing are modest fashion line. Check
them out! Written by Franka Soeria Photos courtesy of AAG (www.argoapparel.id)
Run Thing
Taking Mother Earth as their source of
inspiration, Run Thing uses natural fabrics
such as linen, cotton and knit to bring you their
masterpieces. Run Thing styles bear earthy
colors and textures, creating a minimalist
and chic look. With sustainable fashion as the
core concept, and unique designs, Run Thing
presents a stylish, sustainable, and comfortable
brand that can appeal both to Muslim and
non-Muslim women.
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I.SHA
The I.sha collection brings a new breeze
into the modest fashion industry by using it’s
unique ethnic and casual styles. The brand
offers dynamic modest wear that is suitable to
a character that wants to express creativity and
individuality. I.sha collections show bold, colorful
and unique patterns with amazing prints that are
inspired by culture and a floral theme.
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feature story
Moslema in Style
The Agent Of
Malaysia
Malaysia has it’s own agent to promote their best modest
fashion talents abroad! Meet Moslema in Style- the PR
of the country…
Written by Aydha Mehnaz
Photos by Moslema in Style
Moslema in Style is a public relations and event management
company based in Malaysia. Founded in 2012 by HR
professional Emy Yuzliza and online business expert
Rizman Rahman to highlight the talented modest fashion
industry of Malaysia. The company offers a wide range
of consultation and event management solutions to
increase a modest fashion label’s potential so it can
make it to the international stage.
Moslema in Style has consistently
participated and organized both local
and international fashion shows and
exhibitions bringing the Malaysian
flavor to the international modest
fashion industry. From Jakarta,
Moscow, London to Istanbul,
Moslema in Style has been
travelling non-stop to
promote Malaysian
modest fashion.
A true fashion
ambassador
indeed!
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feature story
BIFASH
A MESSAGE
FROM THE
SULTANATE
From the beautiful country Brunei
Darussalam, Mia Suria is constantly
promoting the country’s exquisite
talent to a global audience….
Written by Franka Soeria
Photos Courtesy Of Mia Suria
Brunei Darussalam is known as a country rich in oil and
gas. Little do we know that modest fashion is also fast
growing into a sizeable industry. Meet Mia Suria, founder
of Brunei Islamic Fashion (BIFASH). The dynamo is constantly
developing modest fashion in the sultanate at tireless levels.
Last year, the Brunei Islamic Fashion, or BIFASH, was
developed to serve as a platform for established and emerging
local modest fashion brands who could showcase their
products and kick start a local modest fashion industry.
“Instead of competing, BIFASH exists as a stage for (these)
brands to collaborate and strive together, rather than on
their own. Before I founded BIFASH, we first appeared as
the ‘Bruneian Designers’ where we participated in the Kuala
Lumpur International Hijab Fair (KLIHF) held at the Berakas
International Convention Centre (ICC) in May 2015,” said the
official ambassador for World Hijab Day (WHD).
Through BIFASH Mia wishes to inspire women to dress with
modesty and to share the beauty of covering the aurat (parts of
the body that should not be exposed according to Islam).
Recently, a BIFASH Week was held at BRIDEX Hall,
Jerudong in conjunction with the Brunei International Trade
and Consumer (BITC) fair 2016. During the event, she also
launched the first issue of BIFASH Magazine, which compiles
the design collections of local and international designers.
Mia said she envisions BIFASH to be known both locally and
abroad. Mia has setup her target: “BIFASH will open doors
to all locals who wish to hit the global markets”. Additionally,
BIFASH will be a name that will represent Brunei in the Islamic
fashion global scene, alongside other countries such as Qatar,
U.K and France.
Follow BIFASH onilne
Website: www.bifash.co
Instagram: @bruneiislamicfashion
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photo Courtesy of MIELLA (miella.com)
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Designerprofile
The Ambiances of
Amber Feroz:
Delving
into his
world
Native to the Indian city of Banaras, Amber Feroz
was born into a family highly involved in the textile
industry, an early influence that would later play
a significant role in his career. From a young age, he knew
that fashion and design was his true calling, and wasted no
time in pursuing his studies at the Instituto di Moda Bourgo,
in Milan, Italy. Not to insinuate, however, that everything
happened without a hitch: at the age of 19, Feroz’s journey
came to a pause when he began to question his designing
abilities, and if the path he was on was indeed the one meant
for him. As is often the case with affairs of passion, the love
for the art surmounted all doubts and Feroz continued to
climb his way to the top. Because of his background in textiles,
Feroz truly understood the implications and elaborateness of
fabrics and how to appropriately style them to create desired
shapes and cuts. Additionally, his ability and willingness
to experiment with different shapes, forms and structures
allowed him to stand out from the crowd and provide designs
unlike any other.
Now an all around well known designer, an owner of
two Dubai based clothing lines and several fashion show
attendances, many want to know what he’s all about.
He is a man of complex mind from which intricate ideas
flourish, a man of faith and value, one who has been leaving a
significant mark on the fashion industry; he is Amber Feroz.
HIS INSPIRATION & PROCESS
Designers generally use the world around them to draw
inspiration, recreate patterns and images found in nature, or
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ounce off of the vibes emitted by the work of others in the
industry. Amber, however, chooses a different and very specific
route toward his inspiration. What matters most to him in
designing his clothing is his customer and their quotidian life.
Although Feroz has a man based clientele, his main customer
niche is the female population, designing everything from
the pant and shirt, to dresses and abayas. When doing so, he
says he considers every aspect of a woman’s life, and how her
clothes are reflected in her every role and task. The woman is
inertly a mother, a wife, a worker, a provider and Amber wants
his clothes to permit women to freely express themselves
comfortably. Comfort is a crucial aspect to Feroz’ s designs.
Another inspiration of his – and perhaps the most
important- is his mother. As a mother does, she is the one
that told him to start and continue chasing his dreams, also
playing a clear role in his decision to begin designing abayas.
When making them, he aimed toward a very fluid design,
wanting to steer away from highlighting too much of the
woman’s figure. Most of his abayas follow a seamless and
drapery approach, staying true to his interest in comfort.
As far as his process of design goes, Feroz follows the same
principles initially set by his inspiration. When beginning a
new design or fashion line, he first starts with a philosophical
approach, analysing and recognizing what his customers
search for and need. Next, the overall message he wishes to
convey with his designs set the tone for the projects at hand.
AMBER’S THOUGHTS ON…
Back in August of 2015, Amber Feroz sat for an interview for
the Modest Chapter and discussed different concepts that he
incorporates in his fashion, and which also help guide him in
his vision.
…MAKEUP
Simply by observing models on the runway, one can easily
derive the importance of makeup. It can help emphasize the
tone of the outfit, highlight or hide certain features, and help
guide the onlooker’s eye. Amber however, does not believe in
makeup…anymore. Since his Heights of Hope fashion show,
the designer has come to the realization that makeup does not
necessarily entail beauty. In this mentioned show, none of the
models wore makeup, except for perhaps lip gloss or highlight
powder as to enhance the lighting effects. Beauty is simplicity,
he continues, and because we are all created by the Almighty
“He’s
potentially
a cut above
the rest,
he’s really
different.”
– Bong Guerrero, Founder and CEO at Fashion Forward
we are all inherently beautiful and should learn to embrace
this concept, as well as our natural selves.
…MODESTY
Many of us in the fashion industry focus on modesty as a way
of dressing oneself, often putting a lot of the emphasis on the
clothing themselves. Feroz provides an eye opener when he
explains his take on modesty.
Modesty is in the way a person carries themselves, the way
they walk, talk, drive, interact with others, and how aware
they are of themselves, he explains. The more you are aware
of yourself, the more you know what you need and what you
represent, and inevitably this will transfer itself into the way
you dress. Just as he says beauty is simplicity, Feroz believes
that without true modesty, there cannot exist genuine beauty.
…BEAUTY & BEING A DESIGNER
So far we have discussed Amber’s thoughts on beauty relative
to other concepts, but what does he think of beauty in and of
itself? He believes that every single human being is beautiful
from the inside and to project that beauty to the outside world,
a given person needs to be able to truly appreciate and grasp
that inner beauty. Once that has been done, it will effortlessly
shine through.
As far as being a designer, Amber does not want to be called
a creator, or take on the role of one. He says that he cannot be
a creator for there is only One. He feels that the ability to be a
designer enables him to gain a better understanding of true
beauty in every project he does.
FINAL THOUGHTS
When a person has core values and interests as sound as that
of Amber Feroz, people have a natural tendency to gravitate
towards them, and their work. He has gained praises all
around, people in the industry giving him a round of applause
for his work and the way he puts out his designs. It has been
said that he is talented at adapting himself to any given
market and at situating himself in a balance between modest
and avant garde fashion. The way he sees the world and
incorporates this vision into his work makes everyone hang on
to every piece of his next designs, wanting to see what is next.
In his own words, Amber sums it up best,
“My vision as a designer is to let at least our customer
understand that inner beautification is more important than
the outside.”
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Ele
gance
in
Mod
esty
Chenille from UAE is
showcasing their modest
collection in Elegance!
Outfits by Chenille
Boutique. chenilleboutique.co.uk
Shoes by Charles &
Keith
photos by Nasir Rauf.
www.nasirrauf.com
Caligraphy tunic
with culottes
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Beautiful velvet abaya with SABR printed on back. Pair it with
culottes and high collared top.
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25

Audrey Dress:
Vintage
floral
printed denim
dress
Abaya with
matching dress
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Hand embroidered
dress with
contrast
matching cape.
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27

The Tweed
Detailing.
Two tone Denim
Appreciate Cape
with matching tunic.
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Designerprofile
Tahir Sultan’s
Tantalizing
World:
What started
and what
fuels his
blazing pathWritten by: Hanna Sow
Every day, different and opposing worlds collide
to create a territory of uncertainty and friction.
Often, many aren’t sure how to coordinate and
navigate grounds so seemingly uncommon, but once every
blue moon, someone comes along who knows just how to
merge these different worlds. Himself a man of mixture –
Arab and Indian – Tahir Sultan searches and reaches for
inspiration from both of his cultural backgrounds. From
the way he interprets the world, down to his very designs,
Sultan’s appreciation for the synergy he observes between
the two cultures is blatant. He radiates immense pride in his
ancestry and wants to represent the bridging between the
two cultures through his work.
There is only so much that can be drawn from the
immaculate patterns presented to us by nature and the world
at large; Sultan wants to do more than simply reiterate what
he sees. He aims to reinterpret what already exists and give it
his own contemporary twist during his design process.
And such is his brand. Generally, his designs are known to
be – and described by Sultan himself – very contemporary
and modern, including many cuts to create his ideal shapes.
His vision is not without training however, Tahir’s significant
diplomas attesting to his many years of learning, dedicated
hard work and ambition.
He spent three years studying architecture at the
Architectural Association of London and completed his
studies despite him later saying that he had despised the
program of study. Needless to say that his architectural
background continued to inspire his work regardless.
Following these three years, Sultan found himself graduating
from both Florence’s Studio Art Centres and the very
prestigious Central Saint Martins in London, England,
earning a Fashion Knitwear degree.
When the time came to throw himself into the fashion
industry, Sultan began by selling his clothes in stand
alone shops, migrating from his home town to Dubai and
eventually Europe. Despite good sales and decent exposure
in and around India, things weren’t moving fast enough for
the ever so desirous designer. Consistently pushing himself
to greater heights, Sultan landed an internship with John
Galliano, a man who became an inspiration, one we can see
seeping through Sultan’s Knitwear collection.
It wasn’t until after he tried to get himself involved with the
Dior label – and was told that he was extremely talented -
that Tahir decided to branch off and finally get his own label
up and running. Just as Sultan is as a person, his brand is
very multidimensional, encompassing art and architecture,
but also embracing a very humanitarian side.
SULTAN: THE BRAND
Slightly edgy, completely contemporary and definitely aweinspiring
are the clothes created under Sultan’s brand. His
clothes have been showcased on runways all over the world
and his name is now a very familiar one. It can be easy to get
caught up in the light of success, but one thing Tahir does
impeccably is merge his work and creative process with the
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humanitarian role he plays in less fortunate communities.
A little more than a year ago, he sat down with the Modest
Chapter and spoke to us about his label, what he looks
for when preparing to design, as well as other important
concepts in the industry.
There are seven women empowerment programs under
his label, each aiming to help create a source of income
and support for underprivileged women. Through these
programs, they are able to provide creative services and
in turn have the income needed to provide for themselves
and their dependent family members. More specifically, the
label works with women in villages – some located in India
– who would otherwise not have the opportunity to make a
sufficient living.
The projects often differ from village to village, depending on
the skill sets present; in some villages Sultan has the women
make contemporary stuffed toys which are later sold. In
others, the traditional stitch work usually used on blankets
serves as inspiration for Sultan, bringing the women on
board in his creative process.
In fact, the Tahir Sultan label is paired with a Non-
Governmental-Organization called Ankuri, based in
Dehradun,India. Ankuri supports underprivileged women in
Fashion Week line, he maintained his designs “somewhere
between avant garde, without letting it be too loose or too
flow-y,” he described.
With a forte in designing for women, Sultan understands
that there must be a little bit of give and take in his designs.
For example, he would take a regular dress and have an elegant
long sleeve t-shirt embroidered underneath as to permit some
freedom in movement, comfort and styling.
When asked about what type of women he believes to wear his
clothing, it becomes apparent that Sultan has a certain vision
for what he thinks women should entail. He describes his female
customers as “knowing and expressing who [they] are, as well
as very proud of who [they] are.” From the work his label does
to the details of his designs, it is clear that Sultan recognizes and
values the importance of women and their empowerment.
ON MODESTY AND BEAUTY
The concepts of modesty and beauty vary from continent
to continent, culture to culture and person to person. Tahir’s
interpretation includes a distinction between modesty and
religion. A common mistake, according to him, is believing that
the two are the same. Instead, Sultan says modesty comes from
a choice, one that is provided in modern fashion and design.
“Success is a lot
of hard work, it
is perseverance,
embracing
challenges
and making
sacrifices.”
– Tahir Sultan
the area as to make sure they are able to fend for themselves
and support their families. It is through this visionary
pairing that Sultan’s label develops its own knits – with the
help of the women’s amazing skills. The goal is to empower
women through the recognition of their unique skill sets and
include them in large scale art projects. It is not enough for
Sultan to simply recognize his Arabian or Indian roots; he
wants them to be literally incorporated.
CONSUMER WANTS & NEEDS
When asked about his target customers and how he
provides them with new designs that continue to meet their
needs, Sultan responded with respect to his contemporary
and modern tendencies. He believes his customers search for
clothing that will help them look fashionable while keeping
up with the latest runway trends. While some of his designs
are more ‘out there’ than others, Sultan recognizes the
importance of creating a middle ground. With his Jakarta
As far as what beauty is, he personifies it, giving it a meaning
of attitude and strength instead of mere fastidious societal
standard. To him, beauty is the ability to walk into any room
with a confident smile, radiating comfort in one’s own skin.
WHAT IT COMES DOWN TO
Whatever one’s passion or interest is, the most important
thing is one’s willingness to put relentless effort into the pursuit.
As Sultan explains, you have to put a lot of yourself and your life
into you dreams and keep your mind and body in shape. Being
physically healthy is one of the more crucial things that people
overlook when pursuing a goal.
It’s all about balance, effort and strength. As a man who
describes himself as being very out of the box, he stands out as
an inspiration to all those who one day wish to live out their
dreams. He set his goal, he did everything it took to make his
dream reality, and most importantly, showed everyone that it is
possible.
Cover Magazine
31

Blogger watch
Sand in the City
Olga Lobanova moved to Dubai in 2010 and has
always been inspired by fashion, and more particular
style on the streets. She noticed that there were
people with amazing visual character and who didn’t hesitate
to express their unique style, but there were no fashion blogs
to showcase them.
After realising the lack of street style blogs, she hatched the
idea to start her own online platform.
“I basically woke up one day and decided to start shooting
street style myself and sharing the images in a blog. I started
taking photos of the friends, which were bloggers and then
slowly built up the courage to attend fashion events for the
purpose of shooting street style.”
32 Cover Magazine

Cover Magazine
33

Street style photography is in a genre of its own. You have to
be able to single out that special object out of a huge crowd
and all the impressions surrounding it. Trying to capture the
perfect object or perfect moment in an interesting city such as
Dubai, is a challenge but also part of the fun.
The name “Sand in the City” is something my friend came up
with when we got stuck in the desert during a massive sand
storm! Through my blog I try to capture special moments and
I believe that is what you need to stand out nowadays with so
many bloggers out there.
Social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
sandinthecitydubai
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sandindxb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
sandinthecitydubai/
34 Cover Magazine

photo courtesy of Hazanah.com
Cover Magazine
35

Designerprofile
Iman Aldebe is a designer and visual
artist who is born in Sweden. With
her label IMAN ALDEBE, she has
been gaining much attention both
in Sweden and internationally.
You can find her beautiful
pieces in exclusive boutiques in
Stockholm, Paris, Dubai and
SoHo (New York). Iman has
many achievements from being
listed as one of the newcomer
designers by Short Cuts Magazine to
being featured second on Yumo One’s
entrepreneur list. She participated in
Swedish Project Runway in October
2012 and on Von Svensson’s Kläder in
October 2013.
Her brand is focusing on Eco
Luxury designs for career women
also sophisticated collections of
turbans. We talked with Iman
about her journey and her struggle as
a hijabi designer in Sweden.
THE
THOUGHTS
OF IMAN
ALDEBE
Written by Franka Soeria
Photos courtesy of Iman Aldebe
36 Cover Magazine

I
knew I wanted to become a designer since I was six years
old. My father represented the Muslims in Sweden and we
often had journalists at our home interviewing us. Since
me and my sister wore hijab at an early age, the media found
us interesting and I remember one time how I showed the
cameraman while i was interviewed my sketchbook where I
sketched islamic fashion as a six year old. My mother dressed
pretty traditionally and I knew in early on that I wanted to
spruce up the old fashion and modernize it.
In 2000 I started designing modern Muslim fashion. I
started the business shortly thereafter during my journalism
and law studies. I designed my first real eco collection named
Eco Luxury year 2011. Then my dreams finally come true.
Sweden finally welcomed a Muslim designer with hijab into
the fashion industry. The collection was published over 150
times that year. And was published at a number of covers.I
modernized something traditional and it was considered
proactive, though it took several years for it to be accepted
by Muslims worldwide. I also had to deal with racists who
thought i wanted to inspire Swedish women to become
Muslims by wearing my creations. Today trends are shifting
so quickly that religious symbols are become more and more
interesting. In many areas it’s made it into the High Fashion
industry, and now are being sold in luxury malls.
I paved the way for something new that made the Swedish
journalists find me interesting. In 2006, on a morning
show for channel 4 in Sweden, I were interviewed about my
creations and they asked me to show the viewers how to style
the veil in different beautiful ways, and so I did. Then I got
the honor to design the first police veil in Sweden and many
companies followed their example to let my Iman workwear
design for the Swedish companies their Muslim employees,
including pharmacies, hospital, IKEA, military and more.
I was raised in a highly creative environment with an
emphasis on aesthetic and expressive freedom. There is a
strange juxtaposition of cultures in my life and I’m constantly
looking for that strange beauty in what I design. There is a
side to me that is obsessed with simplicity and the beauty of
the unseen that is very Jordanian, and then this rebellious,
rather eccentric aspect that is the sum of growing up in
Sweden. I love to work in different mediums, and to always
keep myself in a position of learning and creating. There is no
difference in the root of the art, it all has the same stem, but
it’s a wonderful thing to see the divergence in the paths it can
take.
Design was more as a hobby for me during my law studies
until my participation in Swedish Project Runway.
It was an honor for me to represent the Muslim women
on a TV-show with plenty of viewers who have their interest
in fashion and to meet such experienced judges with their
feedback that eventually led to my success.
I learned quickly how the professionals worked and molded
my work after them. I took the positive and negative critic and
worked it through. I was lucky that i got such an important
experience in the early stage of my career. I also learned how
important it is to believe in your guts. To always go after what
feels right. In the end you are the only one who has to believe
in your work no matter what; and when you do everyone else
does too. I have been lucky to also see the dark and the good
side of fashion in such an early stage in my life nothing else
could scare me. I am up for everything.
I was the first Muslim woman in the Swedish fashion
industry wearing hijab so it took years for the people of the
industry to finally see me as an individual artist. After a few
years of designing modern Muslim clothes, other Muslim
designers realized that there was a market for this as well.
Some Muslims thought I wanted to change Islam when in
fact I wanted to make the muslim women wear classy, eco,
comfortable and modern clothes so they could participate in
their social life, study, and work with confidence.
I wanted to show the world, especially the West that Muslim
women is not oppressed. So when I designed garments, it was
important for me to show the qualities that I wanted clothes
to represent. I wanted my clothes to show individuality, class,
independence, and power.
My biggest achievement in life is making other girls/
women believe in themselves to let them reach the career of
their dreams. Many Muslim women here in Sweden have
written to me and said because I represented them in Media
and talked about how hard it was to remain in an industry
where i was the only Muslim one with hijab, yet I made it!
My message is: Believe in yourself and help each other out,
because that is the key to success. The more you give, the more
you get. Cut bad or negative energy and focus on your target
and celebrate every little progress you make in life, that´s what
lights up the fire within you.
Follow Iman Aldebe online:
websites:
imanaldebe.com & happyturbans.com
instagram: @imanaldebe
blog: imanaldebe.se
Cover Magazine
37

THE POWER OF
SIMPLICITY
Meriem Lebdiri was born in Algeria and raised in Germany. She started
wearing the hijab at the age of 11 and as a young European girl often
struggled to find modest clothing that suited her contemporary environment.
In 2010 she graduated from German Fashion Design School and launched
her contemporary fashion label “Mizaan”. The label symbolizes a balanced
relationship between faith and fashion with the minimalist shapes and
quality fabrication.
Written by Aydha Mehnaz Designer & Model: Meriem Lebdiri
photos by: Selma Lebdiri Location: Lebdiri studios.
Brand: Mizaan- Germany.
Website: www.mizaan.de
38 Cover Magazine

A red carpet affair
with over 9 meters
of draping of high
quality glamorous
fabric with black
rose like feminine
detailing.
Minimalism
Sometimes
Speaks Even
Louder…
Cover Magazine
39

Clean and fresh
made out of
lightweight
jacquard
material perfect
for a bride tobe
in the summer
days.
Faith And
Fashion In
A Form Of
Beauty
40 Cover Magazine

Schoolgirl chic
meets rock-star
modesty. An elegant
silk cape blouse
paired with a Leather
‘N’ Tulle skirt
bringing edge to the
style game.
Details
Details…
Cover Magazine
41

Blogger watch
who IS
@SARAAHDII?
Real Name: Sarah Dimani
Age: 22
Occupation: Art Student/ Digital
Influencer
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
1. how would you describe your
personal style?
It started with casual attire that’s now transformed
to a more urban look with a chic twist.
2. Name one wardrobe essential you
can’t live without.
It must be my long wide palazzo pants. They are
soooo comfy and modest. You can easily style
them and make something classy or more edgy.
The perfect basic piece a girl can own.
3. If you had to eat one meal for the rest
of your life, what would it be?
That’s a tough one tho’. It must be pasta with
cheese sauce and leek
4. What Style advice would you like to
give to our CM readers?
This may sound a bit cliché; the best style advice
I can give is to stick close to your personality. It
doesn’t matter what the hype is or which style
is trendy or out. If you don’t wear clothes that
really represent YOU, you never feel comfy and
confident if you’re anything else.
42 Cover Magazine

Real Name: Mariam Moufid
Age: 23
Occupation: Teacher / Digital
Influencer/ Curator of @
HijabMuslim
Location: Sweden
1. How would you describe your
personal style?
I like to switch things up once in a while or
else I’ll end up being bored! I’m very much
into minimal clothing right now.
2. Name one wardrobe essential
you can’t live without.
My Sneakers!
3. If you had to eat one meal
for the rest of your life, what
would it be?
Tunisian Tajine! It’s like a pie with
chicken, egg, spinach and potatoes.
4. What Style advice would you
like to give to our CM readers?
Always keep it minimal and make sure
your entire outfit goes well together.
Instagram
Sensation
@MariamMoufid
Cover Magazine
43

Designer profile
Odette Steel and Nelly Rose’s
Adventure of
Modest Fashion
Odette Steel and Nelly Rose
- both are graduated from
London College of Fashion.
The two women has made a
breakthrough by showcasing
their first modest fashion creations
both on Jakarta Fashion Week and London Fashion
Week 2016 which caught lots media attention. Odette
and Nelly tells all!
WrItten by MalIka photos by Odette and Nelly
What inspired you to launch a career in
the fashion world?
Nelly: I always knew that I wanted to work internationally
in ethical fashion – discovering the story and sharing rather
than just sourcing. I think fashion is one of the most powerful
tools of change. I love being able to create something which
has a visual impact and is attractive, yet also thought
provoking and advocating a positive change in some way.
Odette: Mainly because it is something that I enjoy. I
think that in order for something to inspire you it needs to
make you happy, it needs to excite your senses and fulfil your
soul. For me everything that is Textiles does this... colour,
texture, technique etc. Within these things there is always
something from the past to influence and something in the
present to discover.....therefore creating an endless stimulus!
That to me is exciting because I know I will never be bored
doing what I do.
Tell us about how the partnership with
Indonesian Designer Dian Pelangi began?
Nelly: Upon graduating London College of Fashion, I had
always wanted to work internationally in sustainable fashion.
So when the opportunity came up to work with Dian and
the British Council, I jumped at the chance. Odette and I
had always shared this throughout studying together so it
was amazing to take on our first
collection in the industry together.
Odette: Having a keen interest already in Indonesian
textiles, I based my Final Major Project heavily on how their
traditional crafts interested me. Apart from the textiles
being absolutely beautiful, the crafts acknowledge the point
of sustainability in showing that this has not only to do
with energy consumption and recycling but also the human
involvement in the production of goods. This approach
encourages an investment into the skills of craftspeople by
strengthening the hand rendered pursuit to production.
Myself and Nelly are advocators of this and this is why we
were drawn to the project.
Your collection was one of the most
anticipated shows during both Jakarta
and London Fashion Week 16. What was
your experience and how did they both
differed?
Odette: The journey to, Jakarta Fashion Week was
challenging because essentially we were two fashion textiles
graduates, flying halfway across the world to design and
produce a 24 look collection in the space of 2 months for a
culture and market that we knew little about and had both
never experienced. There were many things that we had to
learn culturally first to truly understand the customer. But
44 Cover Magazine

the whole experience was the most rewarding thing that I
have done both personally and professionally.
Nelly: The difference in London was that it was the first
modest fashion show in Europe so we had the pressure
and excitement of introducing our interpretation of what it
represents. Both cities brought something new to the fashion
week which in turn caused a fantastic adventure of fabric and
textile.
What steps do you believe need to be
taken in order to change the media
representation of Modest Fashion?
Odette: I was really shocked to learn that the collection
simply viewed it as Fashion. Which I believe that it should be,
encouraging accessibility and inclusion in a non segregated
way. Not so long ago black women could not buy one
foundation that was the correct shade for their skin, they
had to buy several different shades and mix them together
themselves in order to get a ‘close enough’ shade. When
companies like MAC and Bobbi Brown started producing
darker shades they didn’t call it ‘Darker Make Up’.....It was
just Make Up.
How do you see Modest Fashion Evolving
in the Fashion world?
Nelly: I see modest fashion becoming a leading innovator
we showcased is said to be the first fully Modest Fashion
collection at LFW. For this reason alone I believe that more
should be done in order to showcase Modest Fashion on a
platform such as LFW and other high profile events.
Nelly: I think ultimately now I make a conscious effort
to put the words ‘Modest’ and ‘Fashion’ together just so
when people ask what it means I can explain. I never really
understood how the two could work together as unfortunately
the industry separates the two. So my perspective hasn’t
changed but it has been educated and expanded.
What were your views on Modest Fashion
before embarking on this project?
Odette: For me, ‘Modest Fashion’ has never really been a
term until having to develop a collection for a Modest Wear
company and introducing it on an international platform. I
of global trend forecasting. I see it as evolving to be widely
accessible on the high street as well as being valued at a
higher market. I sincerely hope it will continue to grow to be
recognized as a leading attribute to the main fashion weeks
instead of seen as catering to a minority. I see it continuing
to be inclusive to different tastes and in offering an eclectic
collection we have contributed to this evolution.
Odette: Modest Fashion is Beautiful and Strong,
something that every woman wants to be. I have no doubt
that it will infiltrate the mainstream markets dramatically....
Not only because of the demand but more so because of the
desirability. Other cultures such as African and Caribbean
really champion the headscarf which already has a massive
presence as an essential piece. Although it is a different style
and culture the modesty aspect is represented and moving at
a fast pace.
Cover Magazine
45

feature story
Modern Islamic Design by The Artists of Turkey
TULIPS IN THE
GRAND BAZAAR
Turkey is known as a country with a rich cultural background and history. islamic
design is highly sought after in the modern era. Cover Magazine explores the works of
two dynamic designers: Özlem Tuna and Sevan Bıçakçı
WrItten by Kezban Karagöz
photos by Özlem Tuna and Sevan Bıçakçı
Özlem Tuna
Tuna brand can be found in top hotels and exclusive stores
worldwide.
Özlem eventually established the Design Zone Gallery
in the historical peninsula which she opened up the
opportunity for other designers to be showcased alongside
her work. She added her Zerre Design Company to
her portfolio in 2009 to focus on corporate design and
gifts. This award winning jewelry designer is passionate
sustainability of the history of the Grand Bazaar and Hans.
She joined a sustainability group that has gone on to win
coveted prizes for their work.
After graduating in Ceramics from Marmara
University in 1993 and continuing on to a printing
workshop, Özlem began working at Urart, a jewelry
designer; which led brought her more jewelry design work
around the Grand Bazaar and in the historical peninsula,
Hans. 2003 saw the exciting birth of Özlem Tuna Design.
Here she made jewellery and home accessories alongside
consulting other jewelers. Today the well known Özlem
46 Cover Magazine

A leader in Turkey’s contemporary design movement,
Özlem Tuna produces super-stylish jewellery and
homewares that she sells from her atelier overlooking
SIrkeci train station. In her work, you will find references
from her favorite city, Istanbul. She mostly values the tulip,
because it is a symbol of God in the Turkish tradition, but
also includes seagulls, gold, Bosphorus blue particularly in
her hamam bowls, coffee and tea sets, serving bowls, trays,
rings, earings, cufflinks and necklaces..
Özlem Tuna’s Motto:
Bring
creativity
from history.
Sevan Biçakçi
Sevan Bıçakçı is an extraordinary jewelery artist who
started his journey as a jeweler when he was only 12
years old as an intern in Hovsep Çatak’s workshop
in the Grand Bazaar. Master jeweler and family firend
Chatak led him to his passion for jewelry and offered him an
apprenticeship. After his beloved Master passed, at age 18
Sevan went on to open his first store.
His first personal collection that he created in 2002 was
inspired by the historical Grand Bazaar - Sultanahmet area
where he spends a considerable part of his daily life. His
unique designs, which require intensive craftsmanship, can
be seen attracting the attention of collectors from around
the world. A full range of his collections can be seen at his
boutique located in Istanbul.
The initial goal was to create a style which would reflect
the feeling of Istanbul with a twist - a Byzantine emperor
meets Alice in Wonderland of sorts. This approach gave
birth to his signature big dome ring with colored gemstones
inspired by Hagia Sophia.
For him, the jewelery process is about hollowing out
gemstones in architectural, natural or figurative shapes by
digging into them from opposite sides. This master jeweler
strives to work the entire interior, therefore the intaglios
come very close to the inner borders of the gemstones. His
latest masterpiece, a ring with a solitaire diamond embedded
in a big piece of rock crystal, is inversely engraved with a
detailed intaglio portraying Istanbul’s old city.
The 5 time winner of the American based Couture
Jewelery Award, he is no stranger to celebrities worldwide
including Gwyneth Paltrow who loves Sevan’s diamond
padlock pendant, Tory Burch, and Brooke Shields.
His intention has always been to create jewelry which
reflects how he sees things and what he sees from his
perspective on the world, “You will find inspiration from
Turkish architecture that I walk by everyday in the streets
of Istanbul. These Ottoman and Byzantine influences and
the magical world of sea creatures and animals come to life
in my dreams!” Taking inspiration from both the Byzantine
and the Ottoman past is what drives his work, “I have spent
almost every day of my life being surrounded by fantastic
monuments such as the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque
and St. Sophia Church, the Grand Bazaar, marvelous
fountains, cisterns and mausoleums. The distance between
my workshop door and any of these places is less than 10
minutes and simply heaven for me.”
Cover Magazine
47

feature story
RUSSIA’S
MODEST
INSPIRATION
When one speaks of multi-cultural Russia, not many expect that 25 million
Muslims have deep roots and Islamic traditions here. Mainly Muslims live in
Moscow, Tatarstan, The Urals, The Caucasus and spread generally throughout
Russia. Muslims have had a connection with this region since around the time
Islam was introduced to mankind. This has a tremendous impact on the fashion
industry here as the demand for Islamically compliant modest dress is on the
rise, like it is globally.
The Internet has greatly shaped the Muslim consumer in the Russia region. A
fusion mentality is setting in. This has transformed Muslim fashion as Muslim
women are reinventing themselves whilst preserving their values and modest
parameters. Now, you will find the modern woman - Muslim and non-Muslim -
turning to stylish modest dress as her choice.
Written by Dilyara saphina
Photos by Irina Mann & Maria Shishkina
48 Cover Magazine

ARAIDA
Cover Magazine
49

feature story
Previously, this fashion industry sector was
largely seen as a niche market. Russian clothing
manufacturers could not offer a decent selection
of quality clothes that would meet the needs of Russian
Muslim women. Ten years ago, there was virtually no
adequate clothing in Russia - most of it was imported by
small enterprises, and these were in general low quality
apparel of questionable style. Thus, most people had to
either order tailored outfits, or spend a lot of time in
retail stores concocting their looks.
Rusiko Kobyakova
Today, however, there are numerous brands and private
entrepreneurs offering a wide selection of modest clothing
in various price segments.
One of the pioneers of modest fashion in Russia is
a talented designer, Jamila Rusudan Kobyakov, who
began to create collections for Muslim women in 2002.
Graduate of the famous Russian couturier V. Zaytcev
school, winner of numerous awards can be seen regularly
at the Moscow Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Jamila is a
strong force in the fashion industry. For her the concept
of modest fashion is important as it allows her to offer
religious requirements mixed with exquisite beauty and
femininity.
The leading Muslim fashion house in Russia’s Caucasus
region is Firdaws, founded by the first lady of Chechenya
, now run by her daughter. Known for its couture and
bridal wear, which reflect modesty as embraced by the
locals. Even Dolce & Gabbana have found inspiration here
by hiring this brand’s model.
Dilyara Sadrieva is considered an icon in modern
Russia’s Muslim fashion industry. Being credited for
helping shape the image of the intelligent, elegant,
and sophisticated Muslim woman, she has helped to
overcome negative stereotypes as she rebrands the
image.No stranger to global events, she is one of the
first international designers invited to cooperate with
Modanisa and other Islamic boutiques. After leaving her
label, she has been appointed the head of IFDC Russia
where she has significant plans for the development of the
modest fashion industry.
A popular label amongst Muslim youth is Rezeda
Suleyman. Launched in 2011, this designer immediately
gained immense popularity with the hip Muslim woman
profile. Now his work is widely popular with non-
Muslims as well. “We are not telling anyone how to look –
we are just trying to produce stylish covered clothes that
everyone can relate to.”
The groundbreaking designs of Tatarcha Casual use
ancient ornaments, modern styles and technology which
has revived the love of the Tatarstan rich traditions.
They describe modesty as when one pays no heed to their
ego, turning one’s attention to something bigger and
more important. “Clothes are the continuation of one’s
personality, and it would be great if everyone remembered
50 Cover Magazine

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Cover Magazine
51

feature story
Rezeda Suleyman
Dilyara Sadrieva
what we are representing by our garments. To us, we
represent our history and a link between generations. We
represent tolerance.”
We recently discovered ARAIDA, who took the
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Moscow by storm.
Harmoniously combining the luxury of the East and the
European traditions, she focuses on beautiful fabrics
made of natural fibers. While it is not promoted as a
specifically Muslim clothing brand, ARAIDA certainly
does adhere to the traditions of modesty with impeccable
elegance.
The Russian Modest Fashion market is heterogeneous.
Customers from Tatarstan and other republics of
the Volga region prefer floral prints, Paisley pattern,
jacquard and atlas fabric. Customers from the Caucasus
lean toward luxurious fabrics, and embellishes like
rhinestones, other smal decor, and bright colors. In colder
regions the picture is different with muted tones, neutral
colors, appreciating practical cut and design. There is no
doubt, Russia is an exciting place to watch when it comes
to modest fashion!
52 Cover Magazine

photo courtesy of Verona- Collection Model: Rayyan (@anotherarabgurl1)
Cover Magazine
53

profile
Amani Alkhatahtbeh
There’s a New
Muslim Girl
Narrative...and
it’s Bold!
Observably, day to day societal participation has become increasingly dire
since major events in history. While everyone has slowly found their way
of coping with the changes, one woman in particular has taken things into
her own hands. By using the most interchangeable and accessible platform,
Amani Alkhatahtbeh is using her website- MuslimGirl.com to showcase the
singularity, prowess and importance of Muslim women’s voices.
Written By Hanna Sow Photos by Michael Bounacklie & Jenna Masoud
54 Cover Magazine

Where it all started…
It all started with the unfortunate event that caused
everyone all over to world to stand still and watch in
horror as Americans tried to make sense of what had just
transpired: 9/11. Amani was in the fourth grade at the time
and even then, her classmates had begun to set her apart
and categorize her with the negative image the media had
created. As a natural reaction, she began to attempt to hide
her affiliation with Islam, afraid of what people would think
of her.
It wasn’t until she traveled to the Middle East years later
that she realized the perception portrayed by the media
couldn’t be further from the truth. “It was at that time,”
she explains, “that I decided to wear the headscarf as my
public defiance of the Islamophobia that almost paralyzed
me growing up.” Drawing from this experience and its
associated feelings, Amani found a group of women who
shared her enthusiasm for changing the narrative, and
started the website initiative. They started off with a $9
subscription to maintain their domain, and the group of
friends started writing together what would become one
of the leading online platforms for understanding today’s
reality as a Muslim girl.
The Whys and the Goals…
We’ve all seen it everywhere: issues concerning the Burqa
have been discussed to no end on television, the portrayal
of women as being oppressed, the overall demeaning of the
Muslim woman in any and every way. What’s important to
notice is the fact that all these concerns are being debated
by everyone but the persons actually involved. Amani
discusses the very real impact of such third party actions.
“It’s very easy to marginalize or dehumanize a population
when you silence them,” she says, going on to explain that
the main goal of Muslim Girl is to create a “Powerful voice
for Muslim women in Western media,” essentially giving
this community a chance to show the world it’s true colors
from the first perspective.
And if anyone is wondering why this site is not more
gender neutral –as one could argue all Muslims experience
significant challenges – the answer is quite simple. Muslim
women need their chance! It is important to have a space
where girls don’t feel the pressure to compete with the
voices of men and their opinions on issues that mainly
concern girls. There needs to exist a real representation of
the issues women face and the acceptance of their voices.
Young girls everywhere have the right to know that such
a narrative is not only okay, but is actually encouraged.
As Amani rightfully states: Women are the backbone of
humanity.
The talk and the walk…
For some, certain topics are hard to talk about and are
often considered almost ‘taboo’ in the Muslim community.
Muslim Girl isn’t afraid to shed light on these topics and
has a very good reason for its bold moves. The reality is, the
majority of girls have concerns, thoughts and are a confused
about these topics. By choosing to not talk about more
controversial topics, someone somewhere will inevitably
be excluded from the conversation, going against Muslim
Girl’s goals. “It’s not our place to exclude a Muslim woman’s
thoughts or experiences from the conversation because
some people say she’s ‘not Muslim enough’. Our job is solely
to reflect the countless voices, narratives, and stories that
make up who we are.” How do we, as women, help change
and better the image the media has created of Islam? Amani
says the key is to be involved! It is by participating in our
communities and showing the people around what Muslim
women are truly like, that change will begin to take place.
Amani suggests small things as simple as smiling at one’s
classmates or doing something nice for a neighbor. These
things can help fight negative stereotypes one person at a
time!
The big picture…
Muslim Girl strives to represent the complexity of Muslim
girls, highlighting their varied interests in politics, cuisine,
fitness, fashion and much more. It essentially gives a more
global picture of all the things Muslim women can be and
are every single day. There is so much strength in accepting
who we are as a group, as well as the diversity of Muslim
women, and it is this strength that Amani encompasses
beautifully with her work. There is no better take home
message than Amani’s own words: “Use whatever resources
you have at your fingertips to always talk back. Never let
anyone shut you up or give you no for an answer! We are the
generation with the most technology available to us than
any other generation in history. That puts a lot of power
at our fingertips and we should use it to leave the world a
better place than when we got here.”
Cover Magazine
55

The basic
chiffon dress for
every feminine
personality…
56 Cover Magazine

Verona- Collection
A TALE
OF THE
BASICS
Verona-Collection is known as one of the
strongest modest fashion brands from America.
It provides beautiful basic items that are easy to
mix and match. With two physical stores in USA
and Saudi Arabia, and being the only Islamic
fashion store in a mainstream mall in the USA
(Florida). Verona has proven that it all boils
down to the basics in the end!
Model: Sally Ashour & Sarah Al Ramahi
Photos by: Lisa Vogl-Hamid Photography
Website: Verona-Collection.com
Cover Magazine
57

Pair the versatile cardigan with
dresses, wide-pants or skirts. You can
never go wrong with this number…
58 Cover Magazine

Knee length
top or
ruffle black
cardigan,
so chic and
versatile
Cover Magazine
59

feature story
KARAMA COMPANY
DECOR AND
DESIGNS WITH
A Difference!
Muslim Lifestyle brand, Karama Company is dedicated to inspiring the world.
Passionate about giving back, Karama Company uses its designs to give back
with each purchase through their charity programme. CM talks to founder and
designer Hoda J Written by: Ritza JanseVanRensburg Photos by: Bella Kareema
Who is Karama Company?
Karama Company is a modern Muslim lifestyle brand.
Our products range from apparel for men and women to
home decor. The word Karama comes from the Arabic word
“Kareem” which means generosity. Our mission is to give
back to those less fortunate. We don’t want our customers
to just look good but also feel good in knowing that a part
of their purchase is donated to charities.
Tell us the story of Karama!
Back in 2012 , I was working in a well known company
that specialized in wall decals. Even though they were a
really small company they somehow were super successful,
the company was even rated #2 best Etsy shop at one point.
I loved working with them because I learned so much about
running an online business. I was inspired by the fact that
they were turning their creativity into an actual business.
I considered the idea of designing hijabs and selling
them. I told my husband about my idea and he agreed
to give me the start-up cash. It wasn’t much, but it was
enough for me to get my foot into the business world. I
created an Etsy shop and “Secret Veils” was born. Secret
Veils was the original Karama Company. I first started out
buying wholesale hijabs and reselling them. At that time,
Jersey hijabs with Arabic calligraphy was the trend. They
were such a hit, they sold out within a month. I received
many questions asking what the Arabic quotes on the scarf
meant, etc. They had no meaning, they were just random
Arabic letters splattered on the hijab that I got from
overseas. Then that’s when it hit me, I should start my own
designs with Arabic calligraphy scarves that had actual
meaning.
60 Cover Magazine

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61

I created the “Freedom is Yours” hijab, a design that
had Arabic calligraphy with the words “Freedom is Yours”
written in Arabic and translated to that exact phrase
in English. The design was inspired by those who suffer
oppression on a daily basis. I wanted this hijab to have
meaning and purpose. I made the decision that for every
hijab sold, a part of their purchase will go to charity. Soon
after I started to create different designs, but I didn’t want
to limit myself to just hijabs so I expanded to T-Shirts. Men
started to show great interest in these T-Shirts and that
inspired me to change the name of the company. I didn’t
want men wearing a shirt that came from a company called
“Secret Veils”, hence Karama Company was born.
Tell us more about the creative
inspiration behind Karama Company.
Well I am the founder and designer of Karama Company.
Every design comes from my wild imagination, however I
can’t take all the credit in running the business. Whenever
I come up with a design I ask the two most trustworthy
people who were there from the start- my mother and my
husband. My mother was the first person who helped me
with my initial designs. I needed her help when it came to
designing products in Arabic. I trusted her taste and I can
always count on her to tell me the honest truth. The same
goes for my husband, I can always count on him to give
me constructive criticism. I must admit, at times I do get
annoyed when he doesn’t agree with my design, but I like it
at the same time. I think it is important to try to hear what
others have to say about your designs without being too
sensitive. It opens up your mind to look at things differently
which could potentially create better products.
What inspires your designs?
My inspiration for my designs comes from places I’ve
visited, nature and simple things I would personally want
to have. One of my first T-Shirt designs was inspired by the
New York City skyline. I would sit on my roof and stare at
the skyline. I was blessed to live close to one of the greatest
cities in the world and I would dream about making it big,
like the saying goes “if you can make it here, then you can
make it anywhere”. So I created an ‘I love NYC’ design,
which simply said “I love New York” in Arabic. New Yorkers
loved them, and I might bring them back in the near future.
I also have designs that were inspired by my trip to Morocco
and Paris. I even use some of my own photography in my
designs. I love when customers send me photos of how they
styled Karama designs. I feel so honored knowing that
something that was brewing in my mind is now being worn
by someone or adding a decorative touch to their homes.
What sets Karama apart from others?
I think what makes Karama unique, was when we first
started with our Home decor range, we searched high and
low to see if anyone was doing what we had in mind. We
started with Quran verses on photograph canvases and
then we moved on to pillows. Three years later we notice a
bloom of Islamic home decor companies. It is great to see
because in a way we feel like we might have started a trend. I
would have companies emailing me saying that our company
was their inspiration to start their business. It is a heartwarming
feeling when we get inspirational emails like that.
In a way it is like a cycle, I was inspired by my old job to
create my business, and now others are inspired by Karama
Company to create their own business.
What would you say is your most
significant achievement so far?
Our greatest achievement is the amount of money we were
able to give to charity because of our customers! When we
get calls from these charities thanking us for the ongoing
support, it make us feel that Karama Company is sticking to
is true purpose, which is to give back.
Can you give us any inside scoop to
future projects?
Well, we are currently working on something really
exciting. We haven’t announced it yet, so you heard it here
first. This year we are concentrating more on our apparel
line. We want to go back to designing great, fashionable,
statement pieces. We can’t wait for all of you to see it!
62 Cover Magazine

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Blogger watch
STYLE
TIPS
FROM
Summer Albarcha
Get to know fashion blogger and style
influencer Summer Albarcha as she
shows us how to style the latest fashion
trends!
Written by Ritza Janse van Rensburg
photos by Summer Albarcha
Tell us more about Summer Albarcha:
I am a full time university student so most of my day is
spent between school and spending time with my family.
Summer the blogger may depict a more glamorous fashion
filled life, but in reality I’m a student and daughter (and
fiance!) like many girls my age.
How would you describe your personal
style?
I love to wear outfits that appear effortless. The goal
behind my blog is to showcase how modest fashion can be
effortless and fun!
What tips do you have for fashion lovers
who would like to recreate this
look you created for us?
Don’t be afraid to include a touch of brightness with some
statement pieces. As fashion trends become more mainstream,
it’s awesome to wear some pops of color and highlight
your personality. This is something I’m definitely
working on for the Spring/Summer.
What do you think is the biggest challenge
we face when shopping for modest
fashion?
I believe the biggest challenge in shopping for modest
fashion is the lack of effortless ready-to-wear pieces in
the market. As a student, I feel how important it is to be
comfortable for a full day at school or errands (the majority
of where one spends their time), while at the same time
being fashionable and modest!
Find Summer Albarcha online:
www.summeralbarcha.com
www.instagram.com/summeralbarcha
contact@summeralbarcha.com
64 Cover Magazine

JACKET and DRESS ERRE at Bromwell Boutique PHOTOGRAPHER Tegan Smith Photography MODEL Victoria Scholtz of TopCo International Models LOCATION Protea Hotel Fire and
Ice Cape Town, South Africa MAKE UP La’eeqa Yunus Isaacs of Head to Toe Makeup and Hairstyling School SCARVES Style Africa STYLIST Roshan Isaacs
Cover Magazine
65

Designerprofile
Khadija
Bouguedra
The
Rising
Star
From Algeria
Khadija Bouguedra is a promising
modest fashion talent that has
rocked Algeria! With her brand-
Khadijab, the 26 year old talent
presents modern collections
that pretty much every modest
fashionista of today can appreciate.
Written by: Franka Soeria
photos by: Jamil Hammadi
66 Cover Magazine

Tell us your background, when
did you start designing?
I have always been into art, and design in general. My
mom taught me how to sew by hand when i was around 6
years old. I then started restyling and sewing clothes for
myself as early as 14. By 22 I found myself doing this for
my friends, that’s when I knew I was ready to create my
own brand!
What kind of woman that you
want to portray in your designs?
The woman who wears Khadijab is feminine and
sophisticated but but simple and strong. She dares to
stand out in the crowd.
Biggest achievement so far?
By far it’s the creation of my brand. Commercially I still
have a ways to go, but it’s definitely a dream comes true.
And my biggest achievement with this line is winning a
fashion design contest in Algeria this year.
Is it important to dress modestly?
Of course it is important to dress modestly as it is one
of the conditions of Hijab. I think It is also important
for the non hijabi woman as they get more respect by
dressing modestly
Do you think modest fashion
needs its own trends?
YES! I have always asked myself why modest fashion is
there yet with leading its own trends. It’s a very important
thing. It’s my focus to develop that soon.
You are Algerian designer..
tell us about Algerian modest
fashion scene?
Young women here in Algeria are fascinated by hijabi
bloggers and they are really influenced by them. However
it’s lagging with no specialized stores or boutiques that
can serve them, which is an opportunity as I see it, for
young designers who are interested in this space.
Describe Algerian modest
fashion style!
If I was to describe the Algerian modest fashion style,
I would say it’s a vast variety of styles depending on the
age range of the woman. You can find almost all kinds of
styles from traditional, classy, sporty to the most trendy.
The range just keeps expanding.
Find Khadijab on:
Khadijab
Cover Magazine
67

Blogger watch
A Moment
with
Southern
HIjaabian
written by
Roshan Isaacs
photos courtesy of
Laaiqah Isaacs
Sick and tired of people telling her that one cannot look
fashionable and stylish when wearing a hijab, Laaiqah
Isaacs created Southern Hijaabian to express her
modern hijaabi sense of style, proving that covering up can
be loads of fun.
Laaiqah says, “ You don’t have to be boxed in, when visiting
my blog expect to see an unusual amount of patterns, colours
and sometimes over the top styling! “
Laaiqah expresses her style as quirky going from tomboy,
takkies and jeans to a fairy tale princess. Laaiqah enjoys
taking pictures in natural outdoor environments, forests,
beaches and surroundings with peaceful notes. With this
inclination toward such boundless beauty, the resulting
inspiration is one of a kind.
Follow Southern Hijaabian on:
Instagram: southernhijaabian
Facebook: southern hijaabian
Blog: http://southernhijaabian.blogspot.co.za/
68 Cover Magazine

The red, beating heart of Woodstock.
A treasure trove of fashion, jewellery,
accessories, bespoke décor, furniture,
art and gifts.
a CAPE TOWN
Discover
secret.
Find something to delight
your shopper’s soul.
The Bromwell is also home to
an exquisite food destination
and dining experience.
250 Albert Road Woodstock
Cape Town
T: 021 447 4730 • F: 021 448 2159
E: enquiries@thebromwell.co.za
michelle@thebromwell.co.za
-
Twitter: @breadbromwell
Facebook/TheBromwellBoutiqueMall
www.thebromwell.co.za
Cover Magazine
69

Blogger watch
THE WORLD OF
RUB
ESC
LOS
ET!
For RubesCloset, fashion is all about joy!
Written by Roshan Isaacs
Photos by Mario Mogan
Financier by trade, married to her best friend, Mum to three
rowdy boys and blogger as a hobby, Rushda Behardien (from)
South Africa is a fashionista at heart, and takes great joy in
sharing things with like-minded individuals.
Happiest when spending time with loved ones, nature,
listening to music and of course shopping or just browsing,
Rushda’s passions also include travelling, trying new things
and experiences.
“I believe it’s important to do everything to the best of your
ability, to encompass life and not shy away from it. It’s also
important to show kindness for it will ease your travel along
the path of life. ‘Enjoy each day for the pleasures it brings’ says
Rushda
Rushda’s family is a big part of who she is and what she
does, motivating her to do better, be a better person, and
above all show her the joys of living....
RubesCloset is a little peek into how Rushda does fashion
modestly, what she likes, and enjoys and the little things that
keep her going in everyday life.
Follow RubesCloset on:
Rubescloset.com
Rube’s Closet
Rubereloaded
70 Cover Magazine

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71

Seruna Collection
The
Breeze
Of South
Africa
Unaizah Toffar- the owner of SERUNA is a leading name in
South Africa’s modest fashion scene. Roshan Isaacs unveils the
beauty of her designs!
Written by: Roshan Isaacs
Photos by: Seruna Collection
FB: Seruna
IG: serunacollection
Unaizah Toffar’s interest in fashion stemmed from watching her mother
create garments. Being the only daughter, her mother enjoyed making her
the muse. Unaizah was always visually involved in the design industry and
developed her love for textile by eagerly learning the design process, production,
selection, and use of textiles.
Drawn to the 1800s and early 1900s Unaizah says no other era is as beautiful
and timeless. Hence why The Seruna design aesthetic is modest with a modern
interpretation of vintage.
“Women today have so many roles to play; career, mother, multitasking. When
making a garment, I consider whether the garment is flexible and suits today’s
woman. I create items that can transcend from day to night by accessorising them
differently. Functional items that are classic and incorporating trends as opposed
to creating something trendy”
72 Cover Magazine

Seruna
Collection
takes the
beauty and
elegance from
an era of old
and brings it
into today’s
one of a kind
modest looks.
Cover Magazine
73

74 Cover Magazine
A Modest Interpretation
of Vintage

Elegant and Graceful with an
Exquisite feel
Cover Magazine
75

feature story
Hijarbie
is Here!
Having never seen a doll like Barbie dressed in a hijab, 24 year old Nigerian
Haneefah Adam was inspired by the gap and decided to document a doll’s modest
fashion and style by creating Hijarbie. Written by: Roshan Isaacs
76 Cover Magazine

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feature story
Building her own modest lifestyle brand Hanie,
Haneefah made a departure from her master’s degree
in pharmacology and drug discovery from Coventry
University, UK to pursue her real passion. Haneefa
explains that the dolls outfits are inspired by every day
and occasional outfits of a hijabi girl as she wanted to
document a particular lifestyle demonstrated through
this doll.
“I hand make, style, and take pictures of all the outfits
myself. “ says Haneefah
Hijarbie’s style can be described as versatile, with most of
her outfits custom made. There’s also a simplicity to what
she wears which is her core style. Currently, Haneefah
makes about three or four garments in a week and
hopes to update them daily once she can dedicate more
time. Finding it difficult to choose her favourite outfit,
Haneefah’s current favourite is the floral skirt with the
green olive top but she is also partial to the navy blue
skirt and white top paired with the red hijab.
Instagram page. I definitely see future collaborations
with dedicated hijabi outfit designers in sha Allah.
Ultimately, I want a very interactive and engaging
Instagram page that everyone can engage with.”
Haneefah sees Hijarbie as “a force to reckon with and
a style icon and hopes she travels and explores more
opportunities, which may lead to a series with Hijarbie’s
adventures!”
Imploring everyone to be kind, Haneefah says;
“Kindness encompasses a lot of wonderful acts like
extending support and strength towards one another. In
doing that, success is bound to be an integral part of our
lives. “
For more Hijarbie inspiration visit
Haneefah’s instagram page - Hijarbie.
Haneefah has been delighted by the global response her
work received. The timing of this new creation worked
well and many modest wear consumers were fascinated by
this modified version of barbie that they could relate; no
doubt this has contributed to the huge success.
Most of Hijarbie’s instagram followers are the youth
and mums. A lot of the younger ones are inspired by
her outfits and the mums want this doll for their kids
over the regular barbie whose image gives them much
concern. Hijarbie followers are everywhere. She has
been featured in newspapers in different languages and
different countries with followers come from Africa, USA,
Australia, UK, and most of Europe and Asia.
What’s next for Hijarbie? Haneefah says; “The dolls
are already selling and we are partnering with a lot of
distributors to take it to the next step. I just hope it will
grow from there. We are currently doing a collaboration
with a few designers which will be featured on our
Haneefah Adam
78 Cover Magazine

photo Courtesy of Amalina Aman
Cover Magazine
79

Designerprofile
Amalina Aman
The Talent From
The Island
80 Cover Magazine

Amalina Mardiyah Aman is of Cocos Island
descendant. She was born and raised in Port
Hedland Western Australia and eventually
moved to Sydney. Amalina, 30 years, started
to pursue her career in 2004 after finishing at
Whitehouse and FBI fashion school. Amalina is
the first Australian Muslim designer to be invited
to showcase her designs internationally. Her first
presentation was in 2011 where she was invited
to showcase in Kuala Lumpur, New York City,
London and Jakarta.
Written by: Franka Soeria photos by: Amalina Aman
“I
was inspired by my grandmother. When I was small and spent most
of my time with her. She used to dress me up in all sorts of clothing
that she would sew herself; she’s a self-taught seamstress. She’s such
an inspiration to me, even now I knew I wanted to do something different
to the mainstream, so I started designing modest fashion”
“When I first started designing there was not many modest fashion store
which compelled me to design my own collection. But as years passed,
modest fashion has since grown to a wider audience. Nowadays I see more
modest fashion stores around Sydney and also the online market has grown
faster. Sydney is unique in that everyone rocks in their own individual style”
“The biggest challenge that I face in modest fashion is finding great team
work; I am seeing that many labels are going after the fast fashion model
similar to mainstream. They are just forgetting what the true meaning of
modesty is. The solution I see is to work together in the community and
take on these challenges together. As a fashion designer you have to first
know who you are and find your identity in your own designs. Let your
design speak for your purpose”
“My mother who is my MOMANGER has pushed to the limit. If it wasn’t
for her I would not be where I am today”
“I love travelling around different parts of the world and getting invited
to showcase my designs. The thrill of styling and putting my designs on
models.. it’s wonderful. This year has been a busy travel year. I’ve met so
many designers and bloggers and was blessed to get selected a few times;
and I’m not stopping there!”
“Me and my friends created Modesty Caravan. It is a travelling boutique
with many beloved modest labels on board. The caravan is a fully curated
lifestyle pop-up boutique that travels from city to city around Australia
and soon the rest of the world. The team is made up of 4 talented directors,
myself, Eisha Saleh from Baraka Women, Ebru Yagci from Sorayya labels,
and Delina Darusman a blogger from Muslim Street Fashion and her own
clothing line Delina. it is a great opportunity to meet all sorts of different
customers directly and getting wonderful feedback from everyone,”
Find Amalina Aman online:
www.amalinaaman.bigcartel.com
Amalina.Aman
Amalina Mardiyah
Amalina_Aman
Cover Magazine
81

The Maroon velvet La
Sera Maxi Dress.
The perfect evening
dress for an elegant
diva on the road.
La Sera Maxi Dress from
Sorayya (@Sorayya _ TheLabel)
82 Cover Magazine

Modesty
Caravan
Inspired by the ancient Silk Road, Modesty Caravan is a
travelling boutique with many beloved modest labels on board.
The caravan is a fully curated lifestyle pop-up boutique that
travels from city to city around Australia.
Model: Anisa Balfas @anisabalfas
Photos by: Delina Darusman Gala @deldaga
Styling: Modesty Caravan @modestycaravan
Makeup artist: Nina Kaydee @niinakaydee
Location: Woo-La-Ra, Sydney, Australia
Cover Magazine
83

The evening wear
made out of the
black lace with
white contrast
fabric paired with
a shiny black
turban.
Scarlet Lace Dress:
Baraka Women (@imbarakawomen)
Exotic Turban:
Philadelphia Philpot Millinery
Hinting a
flavor of the
70’s in this
iconic pantsuit
with a sprinkle
of modesty.
Black & White
Pant outfit
scarf
Blaque Flow
Full outfit
Delina (@its _ delina)
84 Cover Magazine

Dusky colours from a
perfect Aussie sunset
blended with tones
inspired by nature.
Choc & Silk print outfit
Choc & Silk print outfit from
Aria
Long Lace Vest, Wandering Pants,
Amalina Aman (@amalina _ aman)
Cover Magazine
85

Blogger watch
The
Creative
World
Of Peter
Gould
Designer, entrepreneur and artist, Peter Gould is passionate, talented
and described by the BBC as “among those young urban global Muslims
leading the emergence of a new Muslim cool.” Cover Magazine gets to
know this creative man better through an exclusive interview.
Written by: Ritza Janse van Rensburg
86 Cover Magazine

WWW.AHLANART.COM
WWW.AHLANART.COM
Cover Magazine
87

Blogger watch
BRANDING OF MODEST FASHION
I don’t think there is a “right” way to branding for
modest fashion. I think that modest fashion labels are free
to explore all types of branding that appeals to a broad
range of potential consumers, including both Muslims and
mainstream audiences. I think that limiting modest fashion
to a Muslim audience may be a common mistake, and as
mentioned, the branding of modest fashion (from a Muslim
perspective) is all too often at the superficial level. It is
important to consider the brand from the ground up – from
ethical supply chain sources and fair working arrangements,
to the visual elements of branding and communication.
Peter Gould is an Australian graphic designer and digital
artist, who embraced Islam in 2002. He founded and
runs a successful international strategic branding
firm from Sydney & Dubai which has worked with a wide
spectrum of clients from global icons such as the United
Nations, well-known personalities, governments, embassies
and household brand names including Etihad Airways &
Thomson Reuters. He has won several awards including the
Islamic Arts Award in 2015 presented by the Prime Minister
of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed; launched
his own apps & games, created popular online platforms,
teaches workshops internationally, has work published in
several books and is followed by over a quarter million social
media followers. Through his work and artistic projects, Peter
aims to inspire and promote understanding, positivity and
creative thinking in the global community.
HIS VIEW ON ISLAMIC DESIGN
I feel “Islamic Design” is often taken too literally to mean
a dash of Arabic, crescent symbol, use of green, or geometric
mosaic tiling. This is a limited and superficial understanding
because those visual elements were originally creative
expressions of a much richer understanding of beauty created
by traditional artists. Islamic Design in the purest sense is a
deeply inspired process practised by those who feel a sacred
connection and divine purpose in their work. In the past the
role of Designers was primarily to remind themselves and
others of God, The Ultimate Designer, for God is Beautiful
and He Loves Beauty. So Islamic Design is concerned with
how it makes us feel, not just how it looks.
“Authentic Islamic Design is a deeper practise and process
of thinking and reflecting. If the Designer is simply adapting
visual elements and playing on archetypes from the past,
we’re limiting our potential.”
ISLAMIC DESIGN AND ISLAMOPHOBIA
Islamic Design and all creative expression have such an
important role today - we need to disrupt the ugliness with
beauty. Design is definitely a tool for communication so by
creating beautiful brands that are influential in positive and
productive ways, I think it may be possible for such brands to
be a vehicle that contributes in part to improving the overall
image of contemporary Muslims and Islam.
UNITING THE MODEST FASHION INDUSTRIES AND
IFDC’S ROLE
I think it’s great to unite the modest fashion industries in
order to create a sense of community and to learn from one
another. IFDC has been playing an important role and I hope
to see its relevance grow.
MUSLIM MEN AND MENSWEAR FASHION
There are some fantastic creative efforts emerging in this
space and I’d love to see more. My own range of tees can
be found at www.artizara.com - I love to explore universal
messages of peace and positivity fusing contemporary
graphic elements inspired by traditional Islamic art. We’ve
had a really successful few years, Alhamdulillah but still feel
like it’s just the start of a beautiful journey.
MESSAGE FOR YOUNG ISLAMIC DESIGNERS
Young Muslim designers and creative communities
are really flourishing in all parts of the world. Spending
time with them inspired me to build the Creative Ummah
platform - you can discover the amazing work that some of
them have put up here: www.creativeummah.com
I also created my blog as a response to the many messages
and questions I get from young designers and aspiring
creative professionals. I’ve filled it with pages of advice,
stories and practical steps that should be a guide on how to
progress their ideas into next steps.
Find peter gould online
Web: www.peter-gould.com
petergouldart
88 Cover Magazine

photo courtesy of Modanisa.com
Cover Magazine
89

future story
THE
SPORTY
SOUL!
These brands are made for
dynamic modest ladies!
Written by Franka Soeria
photos courtesy of
Run into Hijab & Mumine Activewear
Run into Hijab
Origin: Indonesia
find it: runintohijab.com &
@run_into_hijab (instagram)
Keyword: Style
Run into Hijab was founded by Mayorie and Hasrika.
This duo saw a gap in sporty stylish modest wear and
they eagerly to created the ideal brand to address this
need. This unique brand offers designs with strong
character which has rapidly become a favorite shopping
stop online. With asymmetric tunics, cutout sporty
dresses, and hooded jackets, there’s no shortage of chic
and style. The fashion statement made here is distinctly
by Run into Hijab
90 Cover Magazine

Mumine
Activewear
Origin: Belgium
find it: mumineactivewear
& @mumineactivewear (instagram)
Keyword: Function
Mumine Activewear is a brand
that provides high-performance
activewear without compromising
on modesty. Mumine products are
made with technical fabrics laden
beautiful prints and patterns. The
clothing is specifically engineered for
high impact sports. The lightweight
breathable fabrics and moisture
wicking properties ensure us focused
performance and comfort.
Cover Magazine
91

Media
CON
NEC
TING
THE
DOTS
A
la Hijab is a global platform that gathers all modest
fashion styles around the world. This is a great social
media platform that bridges all modest fashion
communities.
A la Hijab was founded in London and Istanbul. It
is managed by IFDC Turkey Country Manager and
International Relation Manager of Modanisa and
Indonesian Fashion Chamber - Franka Soeria.
A la Hijab is currently the only global social media
platform dedicated to modest fashion. Uniting all modest
fashion enthusiasts from designers, brands, bloggers, buyers
to fashion lovers that wish for a global reach. Without the
language barriers and regional limitations, this platform
serves the needs of designers effectively.
Now with A la Hijab, people can interact in the name of
fashion and build networks. A la Hijab can actively connect
and unite everyone - the social media gurus and those
that aren’t as savvy. Connecting fashion communities and
activities has just gotten easier.
A la Hijab is the official media partner for many
events from Indonesia Fashion Week, Moslema in Style
International Fashion Forward, Smoky not Smudgy, and
Istanbul Modest Fashion Week.
Connect with A la Hijab on:
Website: Alahijab.com
Instagram: @alahijabofficial
Facebook Page: A la Hijab
92 Cover Magazine

Main Sponsor:
İSTANBUL
MODEST
FASHION
WEEK
MAY 13 - 14 2016
HAYDARPAŞA TRAIN STATION
istanbulmodest.com
/istanbulmodest
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Cover Magazine
Make Up Sponsor Strategy Partner Knowledge Partner Organisation Partner Media Partners Partners
93

INSIDER tips
Things
Designers
Should
Know Before
Starting Their
Own Labels
Jonathan Simkhai, Tanya Taylor, Oak’s Jeff Madalena and Cooper
& Ella’s Kara Mendelsohn weigh in.
At the annual “How to Make It in Fashion” conference in New
York , designers with young but already successful labels — Jonathan
Simkhai, Tanya Taylor, Oak’s Jeff Madalena and Cooper & Ella’s Kara
Mendelsohn — gathered to discuss the opportunities and challenges of
getting a fashion brand off the ground.
Below, they give their best advice for designers looking to follow in their
footsteps.
1GET SOME BUSINESS EXPERIENCE FIRST.
No one on the panel explicitly discouraged aspiring designers to
launch their own labels straight out of school, but all four said
they are tremendously grateful that they got some industry experience
before venturing out on their own. Mendelsohn worked at designer and
contemporary labels big and small, including Michael Kors, Marc by
Marc Jacobs and Thakoon, back when it was a team of just three. “The
perspective I gained from having almost 18 years under my belt before I
94 Cover Magazine

started my own brand was huge,” she said. “Not only did
I understand the customer from city to city, I understood
how to do a brand from inside out — how to budget, price
my goods, who the best partners were in Asia, where to
warehouse my goods.”
Similarly, Simkhai’s and Madalena’s experiences in
buying and retail helped them understand, in Simkhai’s
words, “what it takes to make women spend their hardearned
money on a garment,” as well as the importance
of delivery dates and timing. Taylor, for her part, said
that her business degree at McGill helped her contribute
to conversations about budgets and managing cash flow
when she first worked as an assistant designer.
2FIND THE RIGHT SALES PARTNER.
For Taylor, finding the right showroom — which
can bring in the right buyers and press — was key.
She found her partner in Betsee Isenberg’s 10Eleven
showroom in New York. Mendelsohn echoed this need,
saying, “You can have the most amazing brand in the
world, but if no one sees it, it doesn’t matter.”
3DON’T TAKE AN ORDER IF YOU CAN’T
DELIVER IT ON TIME.
Madalena, along with his partner Louis Terline,
first launched the Oak label to help fill what was missing
in Oak’s downtown Manhattan boutique. Having worked
on both the retail and brand sides, Madalena stressed
that developing a timeline and meeting your delivery
dates are key. If you mess up just once, you may never be
able to work with that retailer again. “It’s not just about
getting into Net-a-Porter, but making Net-a-Porter happy
[in the long run],” Madalena explained. “There is no
hand-holding, [it’s not okay] if you only had a 30 percent
sell-through, you can’t even get a [delivery] extension
anymore. If you can’t deliver, [the retailers will say], we
don’t want it.”
Simkhai echoed that advice, saying he has turned
down orders with new retailers because he didn’t want
to “burn a bridge” early on. He also advised young
designers to spend time in stores where their products are
carried. “[Make sure] the salesperson knows about the
brand, knows what’s different about it, how it’s laid out,”
Simkhai said. “It’s a big deal when a retailer decides to
give a new brand a chance, to take money from another
resource and give it to you.”
4DON’T GROW TOO QUICKLY.
Sometimes designers get picked up by big retailers
right away — but that’s not always a good thing.
In addition to not making your delivery dates, you also
don’t know what’s going to be successful. Simkhai advised
young designers to take their time and learn which
products sell, then repeat them. “You need to repeat
things that are successful, things people are coming
to you for. It can’t be something all new every season.”
He also emphasized making styles that are seasonless,
because they can spend more time on the sales floor before
they get marked down.
5
JUST BECAUSE A BUYER ASKS YOU TO
MAKE SOMETHING, DOESN’T MEAN YOU
SHOULD.
Buyers frequently give designers advice about what
to make, but “if your gut says don’t do it, don’t do it,”
Mendelsohn said. When considering buyers’ requests to
make or modify her designs, Taylor says she always asks
herself whether she’d want to see her name on it.
6PRESS AND CELEBRITY IS GREAT, BUT IT’S
NOT EVERYTHING.
Taylor said her brand has hugely benefitted from
press attention — especially when Michelle Obama wore
her designs — as well as winning prizes like the US
Woolmark Prize. But, she cautioned, press attention
doesn’t always equal success. “Some brands have
incredible press and aren’t necessarily profitable, or
they’re struggling behind the scenes,” Taylor said. “Fashion
is an interesting industry in that those don’t necessarily
equate.”
Mendelsohn said that for her, getting her clothes on
celebrities isn’t usually worth the investment. “It’s hard
to do. I don’t have the ‘cool factor’ that some of the people
here have… I have a salable brand that does very well in
stores, but my product is much more casual,” she said.
“Not only do you have to get a product to that celebrity,
you have to make sure that celebrity’s publicist calls you
when she’s going to Starbucks, then you have to pay for
rights of photos and blast them out to everybody and
hope US Weekly actually gives you a credit. Having your
dress on Michelle Obama, that can change your business
overnight — but you have to have the right product for
Michelle Obama to [wear].”
7
FIND MENTORS.
Taylor credits much of her success to finding
mentors early on — and she wasn’t afraid of
reaching out to people she’d never met. “I asked a lot of
people to coffee; I met people at Marc Jacobs who would
suggest someone else to meet, a lawyer they thought
would be great at helping me develop a business plan,” she
recalled. “Find people who want to support you and who
get what you’re doing.”
8DON’T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB.
Until you have the funding or your label is making
enough money to support you, don’t go all in.
Plenty of designers build their labels on the side, working
weekends while they devote their weekdays to working for
other designers, Mendelsohn said.
Cover Magazine
95

INSIDER tips
What’s It
All About?
The Life of a Fashion Buyer
A little retail therapy goes a long way, and for some, it’s a
part of their job! Jeannine Nestel-Bosman, business owner
and fashion buyer gives us the inside scoop on what it
really means to be a buyer in the retail industry.
Written by Ritza Janse van Rensburg Photos by Jeannine Nestel-Bosman Doc.
96 Cover Magazine

How did it all start?
I am a creative individual that can appreciate the beauty of a fabric or texture.
I have the ability to see a piece of material and know it can become something
incredible when used the right way. This inspired me to study Clothing
Production Management which incorporated not only garment and pattern
construction but also how to run a production factory. I’ve worked with top
designers in retail, gained years of experience in the corporate business world
and now I get to design, do the buying for my store and manage it successfully.
What skills are required to become a
fashion buyer?
Financial and creative flair are both essential skills required for fashion buying.
It’s not good enough to have a good eye without having a “financial head” in this
industry. Buying involves a strong vision and excellent budgeting skills. You also
need to be a risk taker and consider your clientele needs but most of all your
passion for the industry should be your drive as you will make many mistakes
along the way on your road to success!
What are the pros and cons of being a
buyer?
The best part about buying is definitely the ability to travel and experience
collections from so many different countries! You meet many creative individuals
and like-minded people along the way that can change your outlook on fashion
and design in amazing ways!
The cons of the industry is the volatile exchange rate that proves to be one of our
biggest challenges coupled with the high import duties. This affects the viability
to Import good quality fabrics and unique and special pieces into the country.
Take us through the buying process.
There are different possibilities to fashion buying. One can either travel to
different fashion capitals around the world or select the garments from trade
shows or fashion centers. There is also the option to also travel at end or opposite
season and buy up once-off pieces or end ranges at a good price which is very
favorable. Once this has been done you would either need to ship the stock back
or bring it back in ones luggage if not too excessive. The other option is to select
one off pieces that give inspiration and use it as a basis to re- manufacture back
home.
What are your top tips for people
interested in pursuing a career in buying?
● A passion for the industry is the most important part if you are considering
this career choice. You must eat, live and breathe fashion and have a creative
and stylish flair to your personality.
● Not every decision or choice you make will be appreciated or successful so it’s
important to learn and grow with every mistake but keep that commitment
and passion alive.
● Great organizational skills and admin is part of this creative industry,
a positive outlook and energetic personality will help you build strong
relationships with clients and lead to success!
● Fashion changes and evolves constantly so you need to move with that change
and keep your energy levels strong.
● My final piece of advice is to be the fussiest you can be and only accept the
best. Don’t be scared to be the “annoying” buyer that believes in attention to
detail and great quality!
Jeannine Nestel-Bosman
Cover Magazine
97

INSIDER tips
This
Commodity
Will Never
Run Out…..
The endless possibilities of LOVE
By Alia Khan photos courtesy of Mille Rostock
Love is a commodity that is endless and will never run
out. Is this why we don’t appreciate it or use it enough?
Maybe if it was oil or diamonds or gold, we would rush
towards it and flaunt it endlessly. Perhaps even wage
wars wherever it was abundant. Yet, it is so much more
valuable than all that. It has healing powers that to this
day no drug has been able to match. It has the ability
to start your day by focusing on the positive, on what
you loved and appreciated, and that makes a world of
difference. Perhaps one of the things that holds love back
is the negativity that tends to come our way at high speed.
A lawyer friend, who is a very insightful guy, said to me
today “the truth is we live in the safest time in history”.
That had me stumped since all I seem to read in the news
is to the contrary. “What do you mean?”, I asked. He said
it was the fact that the media made it easy for us to focus
on suffering, tragedies, negative opinions and hate from
around the world, which makes people fear-based and
unable to love abundantly today. Not sure if I agree with
him about being in the safest time in history, but I do see
that the problem is the negative communication, which is
so easily transferred nowadays, that becomes our reality.
In other words, we become programmed, like a gadget.
Unless, we outsmart it.
I learned from a lecture given by a metaphysicist that
real love can affect a radius of 10,000 people around
us. If we want to combat disease, angst, and aggression,
maybe we should give this new ‘weapon’ a chance. If each
one of us has power over 10,000 people, the whole world
could be taken care of by just a fraction of the world’s
population by just the outpouring of real love.
They also say that complete positivity can generate
enough energy to move objects. When we become
negative, the problem is that we are predicting something
bad will happen, hence the negative disposition in
anticipation. The truth is that no one can predict the
future. There is no evil that is happening in the future
right now, only now is happening now. So why not switch
the negative anticipation to a positive, loving one?
Choosing to live in peace by choosing to anticipate
“good” will actually shift your energy. People around you
will feel it, you will feel it. Here is where the excitement
begins. People start to fall in love with you, your love
expands, the world changes right before your eyes. Life
begins.
They say despair is lethal for anyone who is in any type
of recovery mode. Despair is ultimate negativity. It is
a debilitating hopelessness. When you feel despair, you
actually don’t believe in the power of love and the endless
possibilities that we are all entitled to. To have despair
is to disbelieve in God, which means to disbelieve in His
remarkable abilities to change your life so magically, the
ability to create miracles.
In one teaching through a hadith we are told that God
says “I am as My servant thinks of Me”. So I suppose that
means that if you believe that God will accept your prayer,
without an ounce of doubt, with full conviction…then He
will. Worth a try, isn’t it? If you see God in everything,
then you can only see the good and endless possibilities
in everything. Perhaps that is the energy that you need to
create to be able to get beyond your wildest imagination
because that’s where He is, beyond your wildest
imagination. The ultimate love, reserved for all of us, is
something you cannot comprehend. It’s an endless power
supply to create and manifest whatever we hope for.
We are of told to only keep good thoughts. Did you
know that your thoughts have invisible sound waves?
Whether they are thoughts of love or thoughts of
negativity, invisible sound waves are being created.
However, think of this important fact: sound waves are
measurable energy, invisible sound waves are not. So we
really can’t measure the impact of our thoughts, we just
98 Cover Magazine

know there is an impact. Do you think people around you
are problematic? Do you see issues in most things in your
life? Do you think you can do things better and people
are the problem? If you said yes to any of these, you are
creating too much negativity in your mind and you are
most likely repelling people and opportunities.
We are told that things come in pairs, so we know
that everything has it’s polar opposite. Therefore, it’s
not possible for a problem to exist without it having a
solution. So take a different approach today. What is
your biggest problem that you are perceiving right now?
Now visualize yourself taking a hold of this problem and
releasing it; gently let it go and gently ask your Creator for
a replacement, something better, happier. Now see that
happy replacement, that thing that you want. What does
it look like, feel like, smell like, taste like? Your solution is
already becoming real!
Destructive thoughts are a poisoning agent. They
will embitter you and prevent you from enjoying good
relationships. Accepting and loving others, because they
are wrong, faulty, or difficult - in other words, always
having good thoughts irrespective of people’s faults, will
make you care about them anyway and propel happy
energy. People don’t have to deserve love to be loved. For
starters, let’s try loving all those that you don’t deem
worthy. Hate and animosity is such a waste of time – it’s
the happiness repellent of all times.
Love is the commodity that transforms life in the
most magical way for you. Will this to happen, be vigilant
of all negativity. The moment it creeps up – no matter
how justified it may seem – it must be combatted with
love and kind thoughts instead. Change then happens
immediately. You will actually feel it and see it. Can you
imagine waking up every morning with the excitement in
your stomach that something good is going to happen?
Just because. Well do that, imagine that, and let yourself
go into it. When you do this, the state of gratitude begins.
Being in gratitude is a land of no worries, no fears, and
only love. Do this and the universe will start to tilt your
way. People will begin to embrace you, your magnet will
be the strongest ever and you will be loved for reasons
even you don’t understand.
Let’s decide that today is THE day. The day we abandon
all negative thinking. We will start today to live more
lightly, more freely, more happily…all because we choose
to shift to a better place in life. If you were the person
that was upset because “bad things will happen” when
you don’t even know what will happen in 5 minutes from
now, then rejoice that you have chosen to love this very
moment instead. Remember, you have unlimited access
to a rare commodity, love - discover its abundance in you
and become priceless to this world.
Cover Magazine
99

personal branding
Me?
A Brand?
Really?
YOU are the best new
marketing tool!
Fashion blogger, Elrico Bellingan from LUXO.co.za shares his expert advice on
personal branding and how you can market yourself to become a successful brand.
Written by: Elrico Bellingan photos Courtesy of Miella exclusively for IFDC
When people hear the word “branding” their
brain immediately sparks images of logos,
posters with quotes and products decorated
with business slogans, but what if YOU could be
recognized as a brand and generate the same success as
a business or better yet turn your personal brand into a
professional, lucrative company?
To make sense of personal branding, you need to
understand what the concept means. Everyone has a
personal brand whether you want it or not. When a
colleague, friend or acquaintance talks about you in
conversation and express their impressions or thoughts on
you as a person, they are referring to your “brand”. Take
Richard Branson as an example; Branson had no formal
business school training yet was able to create one of the
world’s most recognized brands. Does he claim to be a
super genius or know everything about business? No –
instead he focuses on being caring about his customers,
genuine, and believes in treating everyone with respect
and dignity. He is a great leader and lets his character
drive the marketing behind his company.
What have you always believed? Just like Branson, your
personal brand should be a reflection of your personality
and values – when people like you, they will listen to you,
but when people trust you, they will do business with you
and being recognized as a brand with a good reputation
will open the door to success.
For me, fashion blogging is all about personal branding
whether it is wearing the clothing of a successful designer,
reviewing the latest products of a brand or collaborating
with fashion houses on special projects – your name is
your brand and you are responsible for your own success.
From personal experience, your reputation, attitude and
business ethics determine if people want to work with you
and it can make or break your brand.
Personal and professional branding goes hand in
“I have always believed
that the way you treat
your employees is the
way they will treat your
customers, and that
people flourish when
they are praised.”
–Sir Richard Branson
hand because creating a successful personal brand will
result in a successful professional business. It is a longterm
strategy and your professional brand should be a
thoughtful way of defining how you want to be seen in
the professional world. It will require determination,
motivation and a great overall career management
strategy which can result in an amazing career. Be
inspired by Richard Branson, Steve Jobs and Oprah who
turned their personal brand into a success and YOU
might be the next big entrepreneur with an inspiring
story to tell.
100 Cover Magazine

photo courtesy of Frankitas
Cover Magazine
101

feature story
Peter Sanders
THE MAN BEHIND
THE LENS
Talented and world renowned photographer of the Muslim World,
Peter Sanders sits down with Cover Magazine to share valuable
insights on his incredible career and spiritual journey.
Written by: Ritza Janse van Rensburg photos by: Peter Sanders
Peter started his career in 1960 as one of London’s leading
rock and roll photographers where he photographed most
of the major stars in the music business including Bob
Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, The Who and the Rolling
Stones. Towards the end of the 1970’s, Sanders’ attention turned
inward which set him on a spiritual search to India and then
eventually to the Muslim world where the spiritual beauty of
Islam left an indelible impression upon him. Now almost 45
years and over half a million images later, Peter is in the process
of completing 5 books, starting an Arts Foundation and offering
workshops to young people across the world – sharing his
knowledge and inspiring others.
How did you get into photography?
As a child I always used my hands to put frames around
things and it came naturally for me to see things in a frame and
remove the background to see it in a different light. There were
always cameras around in my house and during my late teenage
years I bought a professional camera and just really took it from
there. I never actually studied photography – I am completely
self-taught. I guess it runs in the family as my grandfather was
a photographer which I only realized when my mother gave
me some of his pictures after he passed away. He was a great
photographer and he also photographed a few famous people.
102 Cover Magazine

Cover Magazine 103

feature story
Tell us about your journey from covering
rock stars to covering spiritual leaders
and sites? What made you change?
People always see it as a large jump, but I don’t see it that way.
The music business was how I cut my teeth into photography
and the people I photographed were my heroes at the time.
Once I set off travelling, my heroes changed as I became more
interested in spiritual things and saintly people. Either way,
photography is an opportunity to have a one-to-one with
someone I am fascinated by and that is what is important to me.
What do you appreciate the most about
Islamic Culture?
The part I appreciate most about the Islamic Culture is the
side of it that people do not see. Nowadays everyone knows about
the extremists (even though they are a small minority) but that’s
what preoccupies the media. There’s a whole other dimension
of the Islamic world that even Muslims aren’t aware of! It’s not
uncommon in any religion whether it is Hinduism, Buddhism
or Christianity – there’s always been saintly people that dedicate
their lives to praying and studying in bigger or greater degrees
and it is this part of Islam that no-one gets to see that I am
interested in and that I try to capture in my pictures.
isn’t yours anymore and you should always think of that part
before thinking “I want to be famous”. I am not saying don’t
pursue a career in music; if that is your passion then you should
go for it, but just keep an open mind.
When it comes to Islamophobia, what do
you think about the tolerance of Islam? Do
you follow any Islamic scholars and their
opinions and why are they important to the
Islamic Society?
I like to hear what people have to say but in my personal
opinion – the message about Islam has been wrong up until now.
People are very defensive. It is easy to talk about “Islam is peace”
but if you are not a peaceful person, no-one is going to believe
you. For example, they did a campaign in London after 7/7 and
posted the message “Islam is peace” all over London busses and
I just thought that no-one is going to believe that because of the
bombings. For a quote like “Islam is Peace” to be true we have
to be peaceful, compassionate, merciful and loving people. If we
are that – we don’t have to talk about Islamophobia because it
won’t be an issue. I think Islamophobia comes from fear and it’s
a defensive mechanism. We need to change this.
What’s the dangerous side of the
photography profession?
It’s an occupational hazard for me to get arrested and I’ve
been imprisoned a few times but they soon realize I am not a
threat and let me go. In the past, people always saw cameras and
thought of spies and that could be dangerous, but from personal
experience, I wouldn’t say my journey has been threatened with
many dangers.
What advice do you have for young Muslim
kids that want to pursue a career in music
(since you’ve seen the music industry up
close and personal)?
I would suggest thinking it out very carefully. To be in the
public eye like the music artists I used to photograph is probably
very exciting when you are young but when it gets to a point
where you cannot do anything without people coming up to you
and asking you for a picture or autograph – you realise your life
I do know elderly scholars who have embodied peace and who
are seen as true saints. If you spend time with these people, you
can’t help but fall in love with them and I am very thankful that
these people are now seen as public figures, even though I know
they would much prefer to be hidden away studying and praying.
I am very thankful to these saints for coming forward and
teaching young people how to be peaceful and set an example for
the youth otherwise we would only have extremists spreading
the message about Islam all wrong.
104 Cover Magazine

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What is true beauty to you?
That’s a deep question! They say beauty is in the eye of the
beholder and for me it is just something that strikes a chord
with you. It’s different for everyone, but I do think spirituality
(if you can call photography such a thing) does communicate
to people on a very broad basis. It can build bridges and bring
people together. Pure spirituality is definitely a unifier and
I think you need to find that in yourself to be able to see it
from the outside. It’s very evasive and the best way to describe
it is to see it as a butterfly that you are always chasing, but it
always disappears. Especially in photography you are always
trying to capture that but it’s very illusive.
What are your recent and future projects?
I’m actually trying to finish some of my projects. I often
feel like those “plate spinners” at the circus trying to keep
everything going with all my projects. One of my projects
I have been working on for 45 years. It is about the saintly
people I’ve met over the years and it is all being compiled in a
book called “Meetings with Mountains”. I am on the last stage
of this project and will hopefully complete it very soon.
Other than that I have 5 books that I’m trying to finish,
exhibitions and workshops with young people. I am off to
Morocco next to work with young people from all across the
world! I am in the process of setting up an Arts Foundation
and one of the parts of the foundation will be to create a stock
library with more than a quarter of a million transparencies
that is part of my archive. I want to link workshops and
learning opportunities for young people to the foundation
as well because I think part of the problem when it comes
to extremism is that young people have not had access to
be creative in themselves. Children are being told music is
haram, photography is haram, painting is haram and a child
in that environment cannot grow to be a rounded human
being. I’m a great believer that we need to point out all the
amazing things Muslims have done over the years and not
focus on everything that is frowned upon.
106 Cover Magazine

Cover Magazine 107

PRET-A-
COVER
MODEST
FASHION
REVO
LUTIO
NIZED!
Photo courtesy of: Blancheur
108 Cover Magazine

A new universal fashion category by IFDC that
will change the way modest wear customers
shop forever!
Pret-A-Cover is part of the Islamic Fashion and Design Council (IFDC)
that is dedicated to the needs of the consumer. This is where the
opportunity for the retailer and designer lies. Primarily a new retail
store category like the Pret a porter area of a store is dedicated to ready wear,
Couture is for party wear, Active wear is for sportswear, now the Pret-A-
Cover department or section of a store will be dedicated to modest wear.
However, Pret-A-Cover is a lot more than that. It is a comprehensive program
that offers a range of supporting services to retailers and designers so they can
attract the valuable modest wear consumers, and make them feel understood;
whilst giving the consumer the ultimate guidance and shopping companion!
Pret-A-Cover Online is a guide developed in conjunction with the talented
IFDC Italy tech team, that will ensure success for participating stores,
designers, and shoppers. This space in the IFDC website will eventually
expand into a hub that will give the consumer quick access to products,
product advice, information, shopping tips, and more. “Pret-A-Cover is a
mindblowing concept that will revolutionize shopping forever”, said IFDC Italy
Country Manager Paolo Costanzo, “By creating a space online that facilitates
every day shopping all the while providing interesting content on a wide range
of topics from how to shop, lifestyle advice, consumer tips, PAC will take
you on a shopping journey you are sure to love”. The consumer in the modest
fashion market needs advice, tips and guidance on where to go, what to look
for, and how to use it best. This is what the online space will be all about.
“For consumers, retailers, and designers, a whole new world will open up
with the tools provided by Pret-A-Cover online and it is sure to be everyone’s
most trusted shopping companion”, said IFDC Chairwoman, Alia Khan,
“with this handy new tool, the consumer will be offered ease in shopping
while retailers and designers around the world will benefit from increased
traffic and exposure”. The useful information, whether it ranges from how
to buy make-up that you won’t regret, to what to look out for when online
shopping, to how to find that impossible clothing article in a modest version
and more, will save you time, money, and stress. Pret-A-Cover is the best
guide that every consumer wants and needs, creating an experience that is not
available anywhere else online. It is finally time to say goodbye to the everyday
challenges modest consumers face, and say hello to the new and trusted: Pret-
A-Cover Online!
For more details on Pret-A-Cover
contact: office@IFDCouncil.org
or follow us on social media.
Facebook: Islamic Fashion and Design Council
Instagram: IFDC_ORG
Website: www.IFDCouncil.org - click on “Pret-A-Cover”
Cover Magazine 109

activity
IFDC GLOBAL
ACTIVITY
Meet the Heads of a Global Phenomenon!
The Islamic Fashion and Design
Council (IFDC) is a global sensation
with 8 offices worldwide and 5 more
coming up in the next year. Getting
insight from IFDC country managers
from around the globe helps us to better
understand the world’s leading fashion
and design council in the Islamic
economy.
with 2 Simple Questions for
the Chairwoman, ALIA Khan:
1. Why did you select the current heads
of IFDC?
Not sure if we selected each other, or if we were selected
for each other. The story with each one of them is quite
serendipitous and the synergy for the partnership was
obvious to both sides from the beginning. Things either
have to fall into place smoothly for me or I tend to take a
step back and observe for a while. In all the current IFDC
global players’ cases, our coming together was extremely
smooth with an apparent spiritual connection that was
undeniable. This organization calls for a lot of heart -
because it’s about everyone that belongs to this industry.
So we all must have the spirit of helping people and
wanting to facilitate their success in meaningful ways;
and that’s exactly what the IFDC heads are about.
2. What is a leader to you?
You just have to look at our IFDC global team and you’ll
have no doubt about what a leader looks like. Whether
it’s the elegant yet effective way Roshan approaches her
initiatives, or the selfless way Aydha pursues her work for
everyone’s benefit, the caring, creative, and intelligent
way Franka brings people together, the effective way
Paolo makes people see their own value, or the kind yet
powerful way Dil puts deals together – I can tell you that
a whole case study on effective leadership can be done by
meeting the dynamic IFDC family around the world.
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The Global IFDC
Heads:
TELL US MORE ABOUT IFDC’S OFFICES IN
YOUR COUNTRY AND YOUR ROLE AS COUNTRY
MANAGER?
We are currently building a strong team that
PC consists of both Muslim and Non-Muslim
members to tackle Milan more effectively. Being
part of the Council is a great opportunity for everyone as
we believe that cultural-integration is an essential asset
needed for success – and maybe in fashion more so than
any other industry. My role as Country Manager is to
coordinate with the IFDC Italy team according to
IFDC’s mission and under the guidance of Chairwoman,
Alia Khan.
IFDC Italy:
Paolo Costanzo (PC)
IFDC Russia: Dilyara
Sadrieva (DS)
IFDC South Africa:
Roshan Isaacs (RI)
We recently announced IFDC Russia’s partnership
DS with Alif Consult, the owner of the Moscow Halal
Expo. The IFDC phenomenon globally is
unprecedented and the IFDC Russia initiative will add a
completely new dimension to the global operations. The
growing consumer demand not only amongst Russian
Muslims but the whole sub-region has created immense
opportunities for all. You will see a synthesis process,
Russian alliances for industry players and overall
business, where the macro-economic processes is
affected in general.
My role as a Country manager is to use my rich
experience in the modest fashion industry, to unlock
the potential of this market in Russia. To some extent
we will also break stereotypes and rebrand the Muslim
image, popularizing it and showcasing it as it pertains
to the true nature of modest fashion. We plan to open
opportunities for Russian designers and manufacturers
at the same time as open up Russia for the rest of the
world.
IFDC South Africa is involved in the development
RI and support of local modest wear designers. It is
important to be on the pulse of the needs of this
market and the people who service it. My role in South
Africa is to introduce retailers to the modest wear
market and assist them in understanding and catering
to this highly attractive market, educating those in the
design industry on what modest wear is and creating a
platform for modest wear designers to be positioned
globally. IFDC South Africa has enjoyed collaborations
with WomanOnline and MAC South Africa and we
continue to build on the increasing list partners.
As the Country Manager, my role is broad and requires
me to be hands on as the strategist, deal maker,
producer, presenter, trainer, and the list continues.
The position is very demanding and there’s no room for
slacking, which works well for me as I’m an adrenalin
junkie and enjoy the challenge!
IFDC’s office in Turkey was formed early this year
FS and at the moment we are in the process of
supporting Istanbul Modest Fashion Week. IFDC
Turkey functions as a consultant and international
relations to the event, connecting the local talent to our
vast global network. We believe that it is important to
use this as an opportunity to bring people together. A
certain unity in the industry can be achieved with this
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111

emarkable Council unlike any other. This unity and the
potential the industry has motivates us tremendously. It
has always been a driving passion of mine personally in
everything I’ve chosen to do in my career. We plan to use
the uniting potential as our muse for our vision for IFDC
Turkey going forward.
I am a part of the IFDC global team where I
AM manage different initiatives in terms of IFDC
brand development and also work alongside
Chapter offices to identify opportunities for IFDC in
each region. It’s important we hear people out. It’s also
important we give due respect to the established
industry players as well as the aspiring ones. There is
tremendous potential in this global industry and what’s
amazing about it is that there are no boundaries. There
is a liberating feeling here and I hope to only help
enhance it – prevent the confining of it. Our worldwide
offices are special. Each one is bespoke to capture the
strengths of the regional head and their teams. When we
support them effectively, we also raise the bar globally.
This commitment to excellence is what sets IFDC apart
from the rest.
IFDC Turkey:
Franka Soeria (FS)
CAN YOU SHARE YOUR VISION FOR IFDC IN
YOUR COUNTRY?
IFDC Italy would like to help develop a modest
PC fashion industry based on values; there is a great
demand for this amongst both Muslim and
Non-Muslim women. It’s also a way of integrating
cultures which is something we feel strongly about.
Bringing awareness and respect among all is a mutual
vision of ours.
Russia is a multi-cultural and multi-religious
DS country. We expect that through IFDC Russia and
in collaboration with other IFDC offices that the
fragmented development of the modest fashion market
in Russia would become organized and professional. The
traditional modest dress and style in Russia is reviving
and we strongly feel that IFDC’s Pret-a-Cover program
will be in high demand in this region.
My vision for IFDC South Africa is to create
RI global awareness of SA Designers who cater to the
modest wear market. I would like modest wear to
be seen on our mainstream runways and to one day
produce IFDC’s very own global fashion event. I’d like
to build a market and opportunities in retail - online
and offline, that enables SA designers to reach the global
consumer.
I see myself as a medium to gather people from
FS different backgrounds as I am Indonesian but
based in Turkey. I would describe myself as a
“behind the scenes” person. My experience gained by
working with global projects and talents from around
the world, makes it easier for me to spot talent in a
global perspective. With IFDC Turkey, I want to close
the gap between mainstream and modest fashion. This
is not an easy task, mostly because of political issues,
but I see fashion as a lifestyle and not as something
political so hopefully I can help to change that vision
and make a difference through my role in IFDC’s global
platform.
In Bangladesh, where I am currently located,
AM there is great demand for modest fashion. Studies
show that 1 out of 4 woman on the streets of
Dhaka wear hijab and are very keen to learn more about
their options in Islamic and modest fashion. They are
mostly women between the ages of 16-35. Previously,
abayas and hijab fashion clothing were imported from
outside the country from places like the Middle East.
There were no local design houses targeting this
consumer base. Now that we are witnessing significant
growth in terms of both demand and supply for modest
clothing, IFDC’s role in supporting these emerging and
established design houses is second to none in bringing
them into the global fashion spotlight.
PLEASE SHARE SOME OF IFDC’S MOST
SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS IN YOUR
COUNTRY AND AROUND THE WORLD:
PC
IFDC Global Development:
Aydha Mehnaz (AM)
IFDC has collaborated and partnered with many
fashion weeks. More and more brands are showing
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interest in working with IFDC and the press are noticing
the impact we have on modest fashion and this is just
what we need to spread the word of our council. We are
currently working on building an international
consumer service site under IFDC as well as consult
brands made in Italy on modest fashion.
We have just been announced about a month ago
DS and I already presented IFDC and the Pret-a-
Cover program to Russian Textile week and a
few other events. There is much to do as we also are
setting up a Pret-a-Cover and IFDC booth at Moscow
Halal Expo in June. We are proud to announce that
IFDC Russia is the key partner for Moscow Halal Expo
fashion sector. We are organizing a Modest Fashion
Forum where we meet with leaders and stakeholders of
this market, as well as mainstream fashion professionals
to exchange ideas, share experiences and determine
solutions through IFDC and Pret-a-Cover which bring
tremendous opportunities to the industry. In addition,
IFDC Russia is in talks to bring forth strong initiatives
for the market. I that IFDC is the key to success for all
industry players.
We are excited to work with the African Fashion
RI International on their upcoming Fashion Week
where we will showcase a Pret-a-Cover runway
selection. We will also be hosting marquis Pret-a-
Cover event in the latter part of the year in
collaboration with Xanopia Business Womens Group.
IFDC South Africa works closely with the local fashion
councils namely Kwazulu National Fashion Council and
Cape Town Fashion Council. The Modest Chapter is also
produced in South Africa where we’ve featured many
designers, makeup artists, stylists and health experts
etc. Globally we are connecting the world through
design. It’s fascinating to watch the effect the modest
industry has on the world. Our participation in
mainstream fashion weeks are a huge factor and has
given a platform to cross pollinate and inspire through
design.
IFDC Turkey’s most significant achievement to
FS date is giving contributions to the first
international modest fashion event in Turkey. We
are trying to make this a memorable fashion event
created on the same standards as any other
internationally recognized fashion event. Modest
fashion comes from communities, and now is the time to
take these communities to the next level. I am also the
current editor in chief for IFDC’s highly anticipated
Cover magazine. Our goal is to set the bar with this one
as we aim to be the Vogue of Islamic fashion.
IFDC is signing deals with retailers to launch the
AM universal modest wear category called Pret-a-
Cover in many cities. This is by far one of the
ground-breaking initiatives IFDC has taken to date and
my focus is to support it and develop it further. In
addition to the retail and marketing focus, I am eager to
develop opportunities where we can bring courses and
development opportunities to our members. This is
something to watch out for, as I plan to get behind this
soon!
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR IFDC IN THE
FUTURE? ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING
OPPORTUNITIES THAT WE CAN LOOK
FORWARD TO?
First and foremost, we would like to have IFDC be
PC the official modest fashion partner at every fashion
week around the world; IFDC’s upcoming
consumer service page is something that the market has
never seen and our talented team of experts will
contribute towards acquiring global importance with
this unique concept under the Pret-a-Cover program!
Despite the fact that the industry was still finding
DS its feet, we are planning to develop and promote
IFash and modest fashion globally. We have been
strategizing and are already carrying out a number of
activities aimed at talented designer support,
manufacturer services, retailer support, and initiatives
for mainstream fashion and Islamic banking
organizations in order to help them achieve their goals
for our market. IFDC Russia’s team is working on special
projects and master classes as well as educational
programs with leading fashion consulting companies to
ensure the most important activities take place in this
industry. We have many opportunities that awaits us!
Participating in key Fashion Weeks, Fairs and organizing
competitions for designers to be part of the Pret-a-
Cover category is but a few of our new ventures. Hard
honest work is always the key!
In addition to the fashion week and global fashion
RI event, IFDC South Africa is working hard to
recognize the needs that have not fully been voiced
by the industry players. We believe that by serving the
industry as effectively as possible, we can preserve the
uniqueness that only shines through in modest fashion.
We hope to be a significant contributor to global modest
fashion through South Africa’s charm and talent.
IFDC Turkey plans to create a great fashion affair
FS through Istanbul Modest Fashion Week.
Also we plan to give designers from other
countries the chance to participate in these events.
One event in particular that IFDC is partnering with
is MUFFEST (Muslim Fashion Festival) in Indonesia -
this partnership was recently signed with IFDC. Being
involved in many modest fashion communities around
the world, makes it possible to offer opportunities to
global talent and helps to showcase their designs in the
global modest fashion scene which is something I am
passionate about.
In the global development department we are
AM looking forward to partnering with more country
based events, giving all stakeholders of IFDC a
unique platform where they get to maximize the
potential as an IFDC partner. We also plan to expand
into more chapter offices to discover new talents and
unlock their potential. The platform has become a
powerful force, we must stay focused and work hard to
ensure the industry sees the opportunities it deserves
whilst maintaining its individuality and not getting lost
in the mainstream fashion space.
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WHERE DO YOU SEE IFDC IN YOUR COUNTRY
IN 5 YEARS FROM NOW?
I see IFDC Italy in 5 years from now as one of the
PC most famous protagonist of Italian fashion. IFDC
will be one the most important influencers during
Milan Fashion Week, in Italian fashion magazines, on
television and in the overall media. We believe that
IFDC Italy will be the reference point for Italian
designers that would like to create or sell their modest
fashion collections in this valuable market.
DS I see IFDC Russia as the most influential and
strongest organization in the modest fashion
industry having branches in different republics of
Russia, and strong connections that benefit all
stakeholders.
IFDC South Africa will consistently be growing,
RI learning, reaching new heights, breaking barriers
and setting standards. The modest wear market
was noted to grow to trillions of dollars by 2020
according to Fortune Magazine. I see IFDC at the
forefront of creating those opportunities for all who
cater to the modest wear space.
IFDC Turkey was established as the bridge of
FS mainstream and modest fashion, the place to find
the great talents and embrace new talents of
Turkey. This is a focused vision and we are already
progressing with it at a fast pace.
AM
IFDC is a global hub for the best of modest
fashion development as our initiatives ensure
dependable service and support for each country.
WHAT’S THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN THE
IFDC FAMILY?
The IFDC family has the spirit of developing new
PC concepts in the modest fashion industry that has
never been explored. Modest fashion has a global
market and there’s a huge demand to expand this
industry which IFDC strives to do. This council has
great values including the integration of cultures and it
is a pleasure to be a part of it.
The most important and exciting thing is to feel a
DS part of a whole, to co-operate, to support and be
supported; to share similar values and to be
joined by one goal. Like in all good families, you try to
do your best to make life easier and better for all
members. To think: what can I do for you today? Every
day? Acceptance of personal responsibility for the
benefit of all is the IFDC spirit that I cherish most.
That IFDC is at the core of making history and
RI that we work as a global team driven by faith and
passion for what we do and that our success is
born from the success of those we assist along the way.
FS
It’s great to be a part of the global IFDC family as
we make a significant change in modest fashion. I
see how all the IFDC offices are striving to give the best
of themselves. It is great to be part of a global team that
is passionate about modest fashion and to see all work
towards the same goal. I love to make a difference and
empower others alongside the IFDC family.
AM
The best thing about being in IFDC is the
opportunity to connect and work with the best
creative minds from around the globe. That’s what
every office in each country represents to me.
IFDC IS AN UNPRECEDENTED PHENOMENON,
YOU WERE CHOSEN AS ONE OF THE GLOBAL
HEADS BECAUSE YOU WERE RECOGNIZED
AS A NATURAL LEADER; CAN YOU GIVE US
A LEADERSHIP TIP? CAN YOU ALSO TELL US
HOW YOU APPLY THIS TO IFDC TO KEEP THE
ORGANIZATION UNIQUE?
The leadership tip from IFDC Italy is the will to
PC put people before everything. We want the
integration between cultures and people before
the fashion. We would like to explain the real soul of the
various religions faiths which exist in the union of
people and not the separation.
A leader is someone who is always moving; who
DS promotes ideas that others are afraid to think of.
The one who dares to take the road less travelled.
Who can see the bigger picture and include everyone in
it. To stay unique for me means to always be sincere and
passionate in all you choose to do. To stick to your values
and social ideas. We must remain true to the meaning of
family in every sense of the word.
Being a leader is knowing how to follow as well as
RI lead. I’m in awe of those around me and as long as
I see myself as equal to everyone- not lesser than
or above anyone - I will always have room to learn from
those willing to teach and teach those willing to learn.
Leadership qualities I most admire are humbleness,
originality and sincerity.
As mentioned before, I am a “behind the scene
FS person”. I give people the opportunity to grow and
that’s how people see me. I have been doing this
since I was in the 5th Grade (where I was a screenplay
writer of a kids TV drama). I strongly promote unity
rather than competition and believe that we should
embrace each other’s talents.
If I could give one piece of advice, it is that there
AM is no substitute for hard work. If you have a goal
you want to achieve, you have to spend a lot of
sleepless nights putting it all together. You will know
you have done something right when you make all your
struggles look easy. The IFDC global team as well as all
the chapter offices handle so many projects at any given
time - that is very hard work, but working together as a
global team is the key to IFDC’s success.
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gallery
IFDC PICTURE
GALLERY
Activities throughout Islamic Fashion and Design Council’s Offices
IFDC chairwoman
Alia Khan
IFDC TURKEY
Country Manager: Franka Soeria
IFDC SOUTH AFRICA
Country Manager : Roshan Isaacs
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gallery
IFDC MIDDLE EAST
Country Manager: Ayesha Siddiqua
IFDC RUSSIA
Country Manager:
Dilyara Sadrieva
IFDC ITALY
Manager: Paolo Costanzo (Center)
IFDC GLOBAL
Development: Aydha Mehnaz
Operations: Ritza JanseVanRensburg
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MODEST man
All apparel: Jenevieve Lyons photos by: Il Retallack Styling: Gabrielle Kannemeyer Grooming: Rossetta Peterson Assistant: Dorothy Ramodibedi
Models: Julien Desvaux De Marigny – Ice Models Luthando
THE
BEAUTY OF
INDIVIDUALITY
Menswear Designer:
Jenevieve Lyons
South African fashion designer,
Jenevieve Lyons shares the inspiration
behind her label and opens our eyes to
finding charm in the “unnatural”.
Written by: Ritza Janse van Rensburg
About the brand:
Jenevieve Lyons as a brand speaks to the fashion
conscious consumer with apparel; which are intricately
designed and constructed to become something of
immense grandeur, intriguing the customer with an eye
and appreciation for clothing holding a high quality of
aesthetic.
The brand aims to avail the consumer with two
lines of retail merchandise; the first being the
Jenevieve Lyons runway collection where
pieces can be bought straight from the
runway and the second is extended
ready-to-wear retail lines encompassing
both women’s wear and men’s wear.
Their latest A/W 2016
Collection:
Jenevieve’s inspiration behind her latest
collection (showcased at SA Menswear
Fashion Week 2016) was being able to
“work with my creativity in its rawest
and truest form”. The collection is called
“Mac.u.la” and is built around the concept of
ambiguity, and anonymity focused on the beauty
brought through from what was once possibly viewed as
“ugly”. It is a play on the abstruseness and juxtaposition
of beauty.
Significant achievements of the brand:
Jenevieve Lyons has opened SA Menswear Week on
two occasions and has been featured on multiple
international platforms. They collaborated with
Skip South Africa on a large campaign called
#MyFabulousCPT and singer and artist, Lindiwe Suttle
as well as the bassist for Beatenberg has been seen
performing in their designs.
What’s to come for Jenevieve Lyons:
They are currently working on their Spring/Summer
2016/17 collection as well as the development of an
online store.
Jenevieve’s fashion advice for men:
Buy into high quality staple designs which can carry over
to more than one season.
Cover Magazine
117

MODEST man
Tame your Mane the
Gentlemen’s’ Way!
Groom like a guru with styling
tips and tricks designer for the
modern man!
Long gone are the days where women are the only ones concerned about looking
stylish and staying on trend with the latest salon styles! Glamour Gloss Girls show
us the latest hair and beard trends with their groom guru “The Silver Fox”!
Written by Ritza Janse van Rensburg photos by Glamour Gloss Girls
Glamour Gloss Girls recently launched their unique
Mobile Grooming Bar for men that offers the modest
man a chance to get their hair or beards groomed
before important events, as a beauty treat or simply to make
a style statement.
The Grooming bar offers a menu of treatments and their
talented stylists will leave you feeling in top shape for the
night as they style your beard and give advice on selecting
the perfect hairstyle. This grooming bar caters for all types of
men and offers the best in male styling products.
Groom Guru of the Grooming bar, Josh AKA “The Silver
Fox” shares some important styling tips for men to keep in
mind when taming the mane…
1. Invest in good styling products:
There’s a wide range of products available for styling your
hair as all hair types are different and has different needs.
Blue Beards Revenge is one of our personal favourites and I
recommend a matte wax for any hairstyle. Extra Hold hair
spray is also a good investment to keep your style shaped for
longer.
2. Consider your hairline when choose a
hairstyle:
Most hairstyles look better with a sharper hairline which
can be created by using a razor. To create a predominant hair
line, we recommend you visit a salon or our grooming bar
and let the pros handle it to get the desired effect.
3. Keep up with the latest beard trends:
Well-shaped beards is a big trend at the moment and at
our Grooming bar we recommend Berber oil to ensure
a sleek, sharp beard.Blue Beards Revenge have a beard
brush too!
4. Shape your eyebrows:
Shaping and trimming eyebrows has become more popular
amongst men. We offer threading that is a great way to
look stylish and enhance your eyes.
The Mobile Grooming Bar offers a variety of styles on
their “grooming menu”. You can choose different kind of
styles that is high on trend and perfect for any occasion,
from The Gentlemens touch, The Tailored Man, The
Refined man to The Rebel.
No bigger statement can be made than with this head
turner. The stylists will build volume and make sure
products like Fudge are used to create a tight and lasting
quiff or pompadour.
For enquiries and bookings please visit
www.thegroombar.co.za
Or contact
justine@theglamourglossgirls.com
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WWW.IFDCOUNCIL.ORG

MODEST man
When Alia Khan, Chairwoman of the Islamic Fashion and Design Council initiated The Modest Chapter her vision
was to establish a platform in which the modest lifestyle of many faiths and cultures would be presented to a global
viewer.
The Modest Channel introduces “The Modest Chapter”, a weekly 3 – 5 min vlog series focusing on all things modest and
empowering, while giving you just that perfect amount of information to keep you looking and feeling good inside out. From
lifestyle to fashion and beauty to empowering tips that can propel you to your highest success – you’re ready to be your optimal
best! Produced and occasionally presented by IFDC South Africa Country Manager Roshan Isaacs, The Modest Chapter is sure
to provide you with your daily dose of inspiration.
A few features to watch on https://www.youtube.com/c/TheModestChannel include
MC12
MC15
MC22
MC28
Designer Feature - Tahir Sultan
The Origin of the Turban
Tools of the trade with Makeup Artist Qaanita Abrahams
Blogger Feature with Laaiqah Isaacs of Southern Hijaabian
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED ON ANY OF THE MODEST CHANNEL (A
YOUTUBE CHANNEL) SHOWS, WRITE TO US AT OFFICE@IFDCOUNCIL.ORG
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