Modest fashion options in Kochi extend beyond just abayas and burqas

What involves thoughts while you consider modest clothes choices in Kerala? Black abayas? Burqas? This will have been the scene a decade in the past, however now, various modest outfitters/boutiques have opened within the metropolis, providing every little thing from full-sleeve denim robes to outsized shirts and lengthy skirts.

“5 years in the past, it was troublesome to search out good high quality modest clothes aside from the same old abayas. However now, purchasing has turn into simpler with premium modest clothes being out there domestically. Moreover, there’s inspiring world recognition for modest trend via social media,” says Ayshas Baker, 28, an entrepreneur from Thrissur, who has been dressing in modest put on since her teen years. 

A private selection

The idea of modesty is deeply private. Whereas for some it’s rooted in non secular beliefs, for others it’s merely about dressing in a method that feels snug. Aside from breezy, outsized informal robes with a splash of up to date fashion, now, one might select something from a denim robe to flowy kaftans, outsized shirts, maxi attire, organza or jersey hijabs (fabricated from a stretchable cloth), lace-bordered shirts, and lengthy skirts with shirts. The materials used are, normally, cotton, rayon and georgette, that are suitable with the local weather in Kerala.

Some additionally draw inspiration from custom. For example, Indian embroidery and prints are more and more getting used on these clothes.

In 2025, the traits in modest trend are largely dictated by an evolving crowd prepared to experiment with their outfits fairly than simply ‘sporting’ what is obtainable. 

Iffah Iffrath, 22, a pupil from Thrissur, says that modest trend is all about creativity. She loves experimenting with totally different colors and textures to create distinctive outfits. Though there are events when she has to compromise fashion over modesty, she makes use of strategies like layering or pairing ‘revealing’ garments with a jacket so as to add her private contact. She says she depends on social media for outfit inspirations, even when buying the garments.

A high-selling business

Modest clothes as a trend development has been adopted by worldwide manufacturers across the globe, and it continues to be a high-selling business. A examine by Thomson Reuters on the worldwide expenditures on modest trend signifies that it touched USD 254 billion in 2023. In keeping with the report, the market is way from saturated; it has the capability to increase to USD 473 billion at a yearly progress price of 6.6 proportion. A motive for the exponential progress could be traced to the affect of social media. Platforms corresponding to Pinterest serves as a serious supply of inspiration with customers trying to find ‘modest outfit concepts’. 

Kochi has witnessed a gradual however important rise in devoted modest put on institutions. “I realised there weren’t many devoted outlets round Kochi, which motivated me to begin my very own, which focuses on free-size modest put on,” says Ajfal Ashique, the proprietor of Modeteq, in Edappally. Retailers, normally, import merchandise from locations like Dubai or international locations corresponding to Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Syria. 

“Earlier, we used to buy everyone within the household from a single store. There was no exclusivity, we wore mass-produced clothes,” remembers Arif Riyas, proprietor of Deen In, in Aluva. 

Shefeeka Mohammed, 22, a pupil from Kochi agrees, “Kochi has extra modest trend shops now, and I like it. It feels good to search out garments that match my fashion at native outlets. It’s a huge step ahead for folks like me who select modest trend,” she says.

Area of interest outlets thrive by providing distinctive kinds. “Nowadays folks wish to stand out within the garments they put on fairly than be one of many herd,” says Nusrath Nizar, who lately opened a modest put on store in Edappally, The Modest Studio. Aside from modest clothes, the shop additionally shares equipment.

With all of the discuss selection, the standard abaya has not misplaced its relevance. The abaya is a loose-fitting, cloak like garment (to not be confused with the burqa, which covers the complete physique). At present, it’s out there in several designs, colors, prints and cloth. Ayisha Natasha, 22, says, “I’m glad that the abayas come in several varieties now. I really feel it’s as a result of greater than for its objective, folks have began sporting it as a development. Regardless, I’m very pleased that it’s extra accessible now.” 

Though the market could appear flush with choices, common prospects want some issues had been totally different. “It might be higher if manufacturers used high-quality supplies with engaging prints and hues, and avoid sheer materials,” mentioned Aysha S Kabeer, 30, an entrepreneur from Kollam. 

“I want it was simpler to search out outfits which didn’t want an excessive amount of layering, with longer sleeves, increased necklines, and longer silhouettes,” suggests Noor Safa, 23, a radiologist from Kozhikode. Iffrath provides, “I want modest clothes choices had been out there in mainstream shops. It might be superb if extra manufacturers embrace modest garments too making it simpler for folks to search out fashionable clothes that swimsuit their wants. I additionally really feel modest put on typically comes with the next price ticket. I want manufacturers might supply extra reasonably priced choices.”

Printed – July 04, 2025 12:25 pm IST