April 14, 2025 – A Day of Culture, Craftsmanship, and Connection

There’s something inexplicably special about Modest Fashion Week. It unfolds like a storybook each year filled with new chapters, familiar faces, and unexpected emotions. This year, at the stunning St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi, that story came alive from the first moment.

As I arrived, I stepped into a grand welcome—the kind that made you stand still and soak it all in. A stunning media wall shimmered under the flashes of paparazzi cameras. The gentle, graceful sounds of a modestly dressed harpist playing in the welcome lounge added a whimsical, fairytale-like charm to the air. Her presence was not just elegant—it was symbolic. A soft but powerful opening note to a weekend that would celebrate modesty, femininity, and culture.

We were tagged as VIP Influencers, an honor that meant more than just access. It meant recognition for the journey I’ve taken in the world of fashion and storytelling, and a seat among those helping shape its global narrative.

Reuniting with Ozlem, a dear soul from the MFW family, I last saw in 2019, added warmth to the moment. Something about sisterhood within fashion—a shared rhythm, a mutual respect—makes these reunions feel like homecomings.

But it was the runway that truly stole hearts. Day 1 was a symphony of continents. Designers from across the globe brought pieces that reflected their roots and future dreams. Rabail Riaz from the UAE, Antonella Bravi from Italy, Tuğ Fashion from Turkey, and Turana Atash London from the UK each told stories through fabric, structure, and silhouette.

One of my proudest moments came when Afrik Abaya from Nigeria and Salam Design from Palestine received standing ovations. Their bridal collections were nothing short of divine—layers of grace, dignity, and culture woven into heavenly designs. As the applause filled the room, I found myself emotional. It was more than fashion—it was a recognition of resilience, history, and creativity.

A standout moment was witnessing MIHA from Turkey, whose whimsical, fantasy-inspired floral creations felt like walking through an enchanted spring garden—each piece blooming with feminine elegance, delicate pastels, and fairytale charm.

Beyond the highlights I’ve shared, the runway featured a powerful lineup of global designers, each weaving their cultural narratives into fabric and silhouette. Bespoke Atelier and House of Hamda from the UAE brought local elegance to the global stage, while Turana Atash London (UK), Arta Kallaba (USA), Les Atelier (Netherlands), and NorthArabia Couture (Nigeria) each left their unique imprint on the audience. The Iran Delegation, with their double presence, offered a deep dive into Persian creativity, while Ayana Active (USA) gave a contemporary twist to modest athleisure. The collective energy on stage truly represented a mosaic of traditions and innovation.

The diversity of attendees reflected the very soul of MFW. Influencers, creatives, designers, and dreamers wore everything from structured silhouettes to flowing gowns, from bold hijabs to delicate pastels. It was clear that modest fashion had not only arrived—it had made its mark, and it’s here to stay.

Amid this celebration, I wore a gown that felt deeply personal. Designed by Khadeja Aynaeva, with creative direction by Ahada, the piece was crafted by Aynaeva, a brand hailing from the Republic of Ingushetia. The dress was more than fabric. It was healing, art, memory, and strength. Wearing it felt like walking in a chapter of my own story, one stitched with purpose and grace.

As if the fashion and connections weren’t enough, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort created the perfect stage. It felt like stepping into a Downton Abbey-style dream—arched halls, soft lights, and a timeless elegance. The canapés were exquisite, the drinks refreshing, and the service wrapped you in comfort. The touch of Abu Dhabi Tourism was ever present—subtle but thoughtful, welcoming guests from all walks of life with authenticity and pride.

Reflections on Day 1:

Modest Fashion Week has blossomed into more than just a showcase—it’s a global platform where culture meets creativity, where tradition fuses with modernity, and where women from every corner of the world stand tall in their authenticity. The modest fashion movement has become a voice—one that is soft yet strong, elegant yet expressive.

As I left the venue that evening, I didn’t just feel inspired, I felt seen. Fashion, after all, is more than what we wear. It’s how we tell our stories, and MFW gives us the stage to do so—beautifully, unapologetically, and globally.