Breaking barriers in the fashion industry
Mariah Idrissi first made headlines in 2015 when she became the first hijab-wearing model to appear in a major campaign for a global fashion retailer. At a time when mainstream fashion rarely embraced modest styles, her presence in the industry marked a significant shift. Growing up in London with Moroccan and Pakistani heritage, Mariah understood the challenges of representation firsthand. Her breakthrough moment was not just about personal success—it was a step forward for inclusivity in fashion.
Despite the excitement surrounding her debut, Mariah quickly realised that breaking into the industry as a visibly Muslim woman came with unique challenges. Many brands were hesitant to fully embrace modest fashion, often treating it as a passing trend rather than a legitimate style choice. She also faced misconceptions about what modest fashion represented, with some assuming it was restrictive rather than empowering. However, instead of conforming to industry norms, Mariah used her platform to advocate for greater diversity and authenticity in fashion.
One of the biggest barriers she encountered was the lack of understanding about modest fashion within mainstream media and luxury brands. While there was growing demand for modest styles, many companies struggled to represent them in a way that felt genuine. Mariah worked to change this by consulting with brands, educating them on how to engage with modest fashion audiences, and ensuring that representation went beyond tokenism. Her efforts helped pave the way for more inclusive campaigns, where modest fashion was embraced as a valid and stylish choice rather than an exception.
As a trailblazer in the industry, Mariah has inspired countless young women who previously felt excluded from fashion. Through her work, she continues to challenge outdated beauty standards and redefine what it means to be a model in today’s world. By pushing for meaningful representation, she has ensured that modest fashion is not just acknowledged but celebrated on a global scale.
Embracing modest fashion on the global stage
Mariah Idrissi’s influence extends far beyond the fashion industry, as she has played a key role in bringing modest fashion into the global spotlight. With a growing number of brands recognising the demand for modest styles, she has become a leading voice in shaping how these designs are presented and understood. Her work has helped shift perceptions, proving that modest fashion is not just a niche market but a thriving sector with a diverse and dedicated audience.
One of the most significant aspects of Mariah’s journey has been her ability to bridge the gap between modest fashion and mainstream trends. Traditionally, modest wear was often overlooked by major fashion houses, but in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift. Luxury brands, high-street retailers, and even fashion weeks have started incorporating modest collections, reflecting a broader acceptance of diverse styles. Mariah has been instrumental in this transformation, using her platform to highlight the creativity and innovation within modest fashion.
Her influence is particularly evident in the way she collaborates with brands to ensure authentic representation. Rather than simply featuring modest fashion as an occasional trend, she pushes for long-term commitment and meaningful engagement. By consulting with designers and marketers, she helps create campaigns that resonate with modest fashion consumers while maintaining the brand’s identity. This approach has led to more inclusive advertising, where modest fashion is represented not as an alternative, but as an integral part of the industry.
Beyond fashion, Mariah’s presence on the global stage has also sparked important conversations about identity and self-expression. She has spoken at international conferences, participated in panel discussions, and engaged with audiences around the world, advocating for greater diversity in media and fashion. Her message is clear: modesty and fashion are not mutually exclusive, and women should have the freedom to express themselves in ways that align with their values and beliefs.
Through her work, Mariah has demonstrated that modest fashion is not just about clothing—it is about empowerment, confidence, and the right to be seen on one’s own terms. As the industry continues to evolve, her efforts remain crucial in ensuring that modest fashion is embraced as a respected and celebrated part of the global fashion landscape.
Future aspirations and industry impact
Looking ahead, Mariah Idrissi is determined to continue shaping the fashion industry in a way that prioritises inclusivity and authenticity. While she has already broken significant barriers, she sees her work as far from over. One of her key aspirations is to expand the reach of modest fashion, ensuring that it is not only represented in mainstream fashion but also normalised across different cultural and commercial spaces. She believes that modest fashion should not be treated as a trend but as a permanent and valued segment of the industry.
Mariah is also passionate about mentoring and supporting emerging talent, particularly young women who may feel underrepresented in fashion. She hopes to create more opportunities for aspiring models, designers, and entrepreneurs who want to make their mark in the modest fashion industry. Through workshops, collaborations, and public speaking engagements, she aims to provide guidance and encouragement to the next generation of creatives. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive fashion landscape, she hopes to ensure that future models and designers do not face the same barriers she encountered early in her career.
Beyond modeling, Mariah envisions herself taking on a larger role in the business side of fashion. She has expressed interest in launching her own fashion line, one that reflects her personal style while catering to a global audience seeking modest yet fashionable options. She wants to create a brand that not only offers stylish pieces but also promotes ethical and sustainable practices. For Mariah, fashion should not only be about aesthetics but also about making a positive impact on both people and the planet.
Her influence extends beyond fashion, as she continues to advocate for broader representation in media and entertainment. She recognises that visibility matters, and she wants to ensure that women who choose to dress modestly are not only included but also celebrated in various industries. By working with brands, media outlets, and organisations, she hopes to challenge stereotypes and reshape narratives surrounding modest fashion and Muslim women in the public eye.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, Mariah remains committed to driving meaningful change. She understands that representation is not just about being seen—it is about having a voice and a seat at the table. Through her advocacy, business ventures, and mentorship, she is paving the way for a future where modest fashion is not just accepted but embraced as an essential part of the industry.
Mariah Idrissi’s journey in the fashion industry
Mariah Idrissi first gained international attention in 2015 when she became the face of H&M’s campaign, making history as the brand’s first hijab-wearing model. This moment not only marked a turning point in her career but also signalled a shift in the global fashion industry towards greater inclusivity. Since then, the British-Moroccan model has used her platform to champion modest fashion, challenging industry norms and redefining beauty standards.
Growing up in London with a Pakistani mother and a Moroccan father, Mariah was no stranger to cultural diversity. However, breaking into the modelling industry as a hijab-wearing woman was no easy feat. She recalls how the industry initially struggled to understand modest fashion, often assuming it was a niche market rather than a thriving global movement. But Mariah remained steadfast, using her voice to educate brands on the significance of representation.
“Modest fashion isn’t just about covering up—it’s about style, confidence, and self-expression,” she explains. “Women want options that align with their values without compromising on fashion.”
Her work extends beyond modelling—Mariah is also a speaker and consultant, advising brands on how to authentically engage with modest fashion consumers. She has collaborated with major fashion houses and high-street labels, proving that modesty and mainstream fashion can coexist seamlessly. With a growing audience that spans across the UK, the Middle East, and Australia, she continues to push boundaries, ensuring that modest fashion remains more than just a fleeting trend.
In Australia, where the modest fashion market is gaining momentum, Mariah’s influence is particularly relevant. With a diverse and fashion-forward audience, local designers are beginning to embrace modest silhouettes, catering to women who seek both elegance and cultural authenticity. As the industry evolves, Mariah Idrissi stands as a testament to the power of representation, proving that fashion is truly for everyone.
The future of modest fashion
The modest fashion industry is no longer on the fringes—it’s a global movement shaping the future of style. For Mariah Idrissi, the next step is ensuring that this evolution isn’t just a trend, but a permanent and respected pillar of the fashion world. With major brands now incorporating modest pieces into their collections, the demand for stylish yet conservative clothing is stronger than ever.
“There’s been incredible progress, but there’s still work to do,” Mariah notes. “We need more diverse representation—not just in campaigns, but behind the scenes in design, marketing, and leadership.”
Luxury labels, high-street brands, and independent designers are all taking note, expanding their offerings to cater to women who want fashionable yet modest options. In Australia, this shift is becoming increasingly visible, with local designers embracing fluid silhouettes, layering techniques, and contemporary cuts that align with both faith and fashion.
Mariah believes that the future of modest fashion lies in innovation and accessibility. She envisions a space where modest wear is seamlessly integrated into mainstream collections rather than treated as a separate category. The rise of modest influencers, fashion weeks dedicated to conservative style, and the growing intersection between sustainability and modest fashion all point towards an industry that is here to stay.
“Modest fashion isn’t about restriction—it’s about choice,” she says. “Women should have access to fashion that empowers them, no matter their personal style.”
With Australia’s fashion scene becoming more inclusive, the opportunities for modest fashion to thrive are expanding. From Sydney’s runways to Melbourne’s boutique labels, the industry is recognising the value of catering to a diverse audience. As Mariah continues to advocate for representation and authenticity, she’s not just changing the industry—she’s redefining what fashion means for women everywhere.