OUR STORY
MODEST started as an idea our creator had while taking a fashion research course at Rutgers University. She ended up writing a research paper exploring modest fashion, then developing a short film, which eventually led to the creation of MODEST.
This publication and platform aims to be inclusive to EVERYONE who takes part in modest fashion. Too often, mainstream media flattens modesty into a single archetype or faith background. At MODEST, we challenge those static representations.
While MODEST was founded from a Muslim perspective, we are rooted in appreciation of diverse cultural heritage. Our platform is not limited to any single tradition or religion. We are driven by a broad curiosity to explore the rich, varied interpretations of modesty—in dress, character, and mindset—around the world.
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We are not able to release frequent publications, but instead focus on volumes with specific themes. We hope these specialized and curated volumes will serve as a rich means of discussion and collection among our readers.
MODEST is comprised of a team of two that sees each volume from conception to publication. We are currently self-funded.
MODEST MANIFESTO
MODEST isn’t just about clothing. It’s a movement focused on systemic change.
There’s this idea that modesty or modest dressing means bland clothing or something meant specifically for Muslim women, but that’s wrong. People of many faiths can engage with modesty, not just in terms of clothing. At its heart, modesty is about character and moderation.
Modest fashion may sound like an oxymoron, but it’s not just about how you choose to dress, but also how you care for your clothes and what their stories are. Is it modest to be wearing something created in oppression? We don’t think so, which is why we are trying to understand this term more broadly.
Our vision for MODEST is to give a voice to the people who participate in this fashion style, and to challenge the stereotypical image of a modest person. No, we are not constrained or oppressed, and yes, clothing is a medium for conversation. What are those conversations and how can we choose to focus on the future of fashion and lifestyle?
With our publication and media, we want to explore modesty and work towards fair representation and content that challenges the throwaway culture of modern fashion capitalism. We want to create a safe space for creatives to come together, tell their stories, and let fashion be a means for change.
Our clothes are an extension of our values.
Dressing a certain way doesn’t make you more modest or above someone else, and no one has a monopoly on modesty. What it comes down to is our character and who we are inside.