One of the best things to happen to the fashion industry recently is inclusivity-not just in body size or race but in religion too. In the past, being Muslim would immediately make one think that being stylish wouldn’t be too possible. But of recent,we are increasingly seeing Muslim fashionistas slaying their way across the globe, showing that religion is no longer a valid excuse for not being on top of your fashion game.

If you’re also of the opinion that you cannot be fabulously chic and are Muslim, let’s help you out by showing you some looks in several categories that might just help change your opinion. It is also important to note that Islam preaches modesty so not every Muslim woman wears Hijabs.

Hafisah Mohammed is our style crush as she so perfectly embodies this. She is one of Nigeria’s very own Muslim fashionistas, who shuttles between the capital city of Abuja and the metropolitan city of Lagos.

The beauty who also runs her own label, Elora Collection, has gone on to champion a progressive style movement for Muslim girls in Africa. Her slogan, “Be your own kind of beautiful” couldn’t be more apt.

We have selected our favourite looks of hers, and grouped them into 5 categories. It was no easy feat… so many great looks, so little time.

Casual Chic

Pair your distressed jeans with a nice casual shirt for that added oomph. Rust is in so you might want to invest in a few colours from that family. How to ensure you’re buying the right colour? If it screams warmth, you’re doing it right… everything from burnt oranges to burgundy is trending right now. These colours have a way of adding some edge to your look. Edge is important, let no one tell you otherwise. You’ve gotta look like you know exactly what you’re doing even if you don’t—fake it till you make it.

Denim outer-wears will also always be the craze. It’s a classic look that keeps coming back. If you’re ever in doubt, opt for this look and add a pop of colour.

Athletic Chic

Athletic elegance made its comeback some 2 years ago and doesn’t look like it will be disappearing anytime soon. The comfort and style duo makes it a great go-to for fashionistas and non-fashionistas alike. Who says that Hijab girls can’t be athletic chic? Well, think again.

Glam Chic

We’d like to dispel two notions here:
1. Glamour needs to come in form of a dress: No it doesn’t! Hafisah so effortlessly exudes glamour, as as she rocks this bright orange pant suit which she offsets with a white turtle neck. Her secret ingredient? Confidence. That’s the key to allowing the world buy into whatever you’re selling.

2. You can’t be glamorous without showing lots of skin: Our favourite Muslim fashionista is wearing this olive green ensemble and she is popping! Staying true to her signature style, she appears to look super comfortable, the fabric seems to go easy on the skin and more importantly, she stays totally chic! Want to know what the gag is? She’s not showing skin… none whatsoever but she still oozes perfection. We told you, didn’t we?

Easy Chic

We knew Hafisah was a girl after our hearts when we noticed her love for flare. Who could resist? In the world of fashion and media, it isn’t always glitz and glam like you see on the television, it’s a lot of hours on the go. So, if you fall into this category then you understand our plight and the need to opt for easy, non-fussy looks that still make you look like a million bucks.

Happy Ramadan once again to all our Muslim girls! We hope this period brings you all that your heart desires.

Keep up with the style star on her Instagram handle: @hafymo

Photo Credit: @hafymo

Tosin did not choose photography as a profession, rather; photography chose her. It was a combination of life events that ultimately led her to this field.

She obtained Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Sociology respectively, from the College of Staten Island in New York, a degree in Business Management from Shanghai University in China, in addition to a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Texas Tech.

After traveling the world and accomplishing her educational goals, Tosin decided to move back home to Nigeria to explore new opportunities.

She moved back when the country’s makeup industry first began to bloom, and so a family member advised her to be a makeup artiste. However, she soon discovered that wasn’t her calling, and found herself more fascinated with the business side of the industry, as opposed to the artistry aspect.  And so she delved into makeup distribution, which ultimately led to her foray into product photography, as she needed to take photos of the makeup items she was distributing, for marketing purposes.

It was at this point that her love for photography began to blossom, especially when people who saw her work and would commend her creativity. After rigorous training and numerous professional certifications in photography, she proceeded to dabble in fashion photography, event photography, and child photography. Her struggles to conceive, battling with infertility, and then finally becoming pregnant, were all pivotal experiences that would thrust her towards her true calling.

The rest, as they say, is history.  Today, Tosin is one of the most sought after child photographers in Nigeria.

Her educational background in psychology, sociology, and business management, have set her apart from her peers. Countless clients trust her with their children due to her intuitive connection with them. Her business management acumen has also helped to ensure that her photography business continues to thrive.

Tosin Rufai, CEO of Teefal Studios, is a proud female, Muslim photographer that has broken  numerous cultural barriers by virtue of being in this field of expertise. It is her hope that other women will draw inspiration from her story, and pursue their dreams with no limitations.

#WomanCrushWednesday