New York Fashion Week unveils first all-hijab show

by Yasmine Mohamed, staff reporter

Anneisa Hasibuan introduced the first all-hijab fashion show through 2016's
New York Fashion Week. Screenshot of Anneisa Hasibuan's website.

Fashion history has been made this year when 30-year-old, Anniesa Hasibuan, a designer from Indonesia, created the first traditional Islamic religious attire collection, consisting of 48 bold outfits with dazzling hijabs.

Anneisa Hasibuan wearing the Black Jacket Bomber from
Daisy Collection. Photo in courtesy of Anneisa Hasibuan's
Instagram.

This is a big move and a powerful message as Muslim women in the United States continue to be harassed in the streets, in the workforce, and are even rejected from colleges. They have been targeted because of their religion, and Hasibuan has taken a step towards change.

In countries that are largely populated by Muslims, hijab can be used as a mark of socioeconomic status, but Westerners see it as out of the ordinary.

“I think that along with this being a fashion statement, it serves to be a big step towards the acceptance of one of the world’s largest religions, and other religions as well,” 11th grade student Emily Fitzgerald said.

Melanie Elturk, chief executive of Haute Hijab, wrote via Instagram; “I believe fashion is one of the outlets in which we can start that cultural shift in today’s society to normalize hijab in America so as to break down stereotypes and demystify misconceptions.” She also thanks Hasibuan for not giving in to pressure and having the courage to do this.

Hasibuan was inspired by her hometown Jakarta, and she clearly indicated her love for modest fashion through her stunning velvet tunics, gowns, and kimonos. It was showcased on September 12th at the Moynihan Station. The audience gave a standing ovation at the show’s finale.

Numerous conventional retailers are becoming increasingly interested in promoting Islamic style. MANGO has been releasing a Ramadan collection every year, along with brands like H&M, Uniqlo, as well as Dolce & Gabbana.