It’s rare we get to sit down with someone who embraces their identity so authentically and
ever-proudly. Enter Aminah, model, fashion-lover and content creator, who’s already been
making some pretty big waves across the industry. From founding her own creative agency,
Redefining Concepts, to styling out her modestly dressed ‘fits with impeccable flair,
we’re so excited to see what she does next.

Today, though, we sit down to talk about all things Aminah. Expect smashing misconceptions, redefining representation, and, of course, celebrating Eid. Intrigued? We thought so.

What makes you unique?

Being in this industry while wearing a headscarf, because I’m able to be myself, but also be expressive in the way I do it.

What are some misconceptions that come with modest dressing, and how do you react to them?

I studied fashion and I went to university, where I was probably one of the only ones on my course who wore a Hijab and dressed modestly. A lot of people shy away from it because they’re scared of what people will say, but I always embrace it as it’s part of you. This is who I am, and I love my Hijab - it’s an expression of my identity. If I do this, it’s not so much of a taboo for people like me to come into the industry, as I’m helping to make it more diverse than it used to be. I want to inspire people to push yourself to be the best in what you do.

How many Hijabs do you have?

I have so many, but I only wear one material. There are so many different types of materials and ways of wearing the Hijab. Some people wear turbans or silk scarves, but I cover my neck and wear this material. It’s so unique! I’ve done so many shoots with other Hijabi girls and everyone’s dressed so differently. We’re all there doing the same thing, but we’re all dressed in our own ways.

Do you think there’s enough representation of modest beauty and fashion?

I feel like it’s been growing throughout the years. When I first started, there wasn’t much of it, but now there’s been more encouragement. Because of social media, there’s been more exposure of modest fashion and beauty to more people.

Is it important to you to be representative? Do you wish you’d seen more of it growing up?

It’s very important to me. There are a lot of young people like me who want to get into the industry, but they don’t see support or inspiration out there. I want to be that for them.

What are you uniquely proud of?

I feel like we’re always criticising ourselves; I hardly ever think about what I’m proud of. I do think that everything I’ve done up until now, like graduating university, and doing something I enjoy every single day are things I take pride in. In terms of being uniquely proud, I love being a risk-taker. It’s what has gotten me this far in an industry I love, and I’m proud of the decisions I’ve made along the way.

Can you tell us why you’ve been fasting?

For me, this month is the month of Ramadan, where - as Muslims - we fast. Being on set during this time has been an experience, because it’s about being patient and being grateful for what you have. I think it’s definitely been a test for me, but it’s something I will never forget; I think to myself that I’m always being rewarded for fasting.

Can you tell us about Eid?

When Ramadan ends, we celebrate with Eid. It’s a big celebration for everyone, and we always look forward to being around our families. Throughout the year, a lot of people don’t see their family much, or they’re busy working in the 9-5, so I think being able to celebrate together is so nice.

What happens on Eid?

A lot of us spend time with our families, but what I love about Eid is that you can be from any ethnicity or gender and still celebrate together. You can be yourself; you can be unique, but everyone is doing the same thing. I think that’s quite special.

How do you prepare for Eid, and is beauty an important part of that?

Eid is all about feeling good, so fashion and beauty are very important. We spend a whole month focusing on ourselves, whether that’s fasting, praying, or being a little more understanding of who we are, and we celebrate all this at the end of it. We go and get new clothes, or choose our best ones, and put in a lot more effort with our makeup. It’s a celebratory time for everyone.

How will you be celebrating?

I’ll be meeting my family and friends that I haven’t seen in a while, dressing up and doing my makeup, and feeling like the best version of myself.

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