Indonesia is currently one of the top three global hubs for modest fashion. Hijab culture in the country is a vibrant blend of spiritual devotion and modern self-expression, where "looking good while showcasing piety" is a major driver for the younger generation. Current Fashion Trends (2026)
“Because it is small and white,” Sari said, “but its fragrance cannot be ignored. Your hijab is your fragrance, Maya. Wear it like you are watering a garden.” Indonesia is currently one of the top three
In recent years, Indonesian hijab fashion has gained international recognition, with many designers and fashion brands incorporating hijab-inspired designs into their collections. The hijab has become a staple in many fashion magazines, and Indonesian hijab-wearing models have walked the runways of major fashion shows. Your hijab is your fragrance, Maya
In Indonesia, the hijab—or kerudung—is more than a religious garment. It is a canvas. Laras remembered her grandmother wearing a simple white lace veil pinned loosely under the chin. But for Laras and her generation, fashion and faith moved in a choreographed dance. In Indonesia, the hijab—or kerudung —is more than
Contrast this with the "beige and neutral" aesthetic of Western modest brands. Indonesians reject the beige. They love pastel gradients, floral explosions, and glitter. This maximalism is gaining traction in the Middle East, where Saudi and Emirati women are increasingly looking to Indonesia for "statement" pieces rather than the standard black abaya.
Encouraged by the positive feedback, Azizah expanded her collection and started showcasing her designs at local fashion events and markets. She collaborated with Indonesian designers and artisans to create unique and innovative hijab designs that blended traditional and modern styles.
Historically, the widespread adoption of the hijab—locally referred to as the kerudung or jilbab—is a relatively recent phenomenon in Indonesia. Prior to the late 20th century, traditional Indonesian dress for women often consisted of the kebaya paired with a loose headscarf that left some hair showing, or no head covering at all. The shift began to accelerate in the 1980s and 1990s, influenced by global Islamic revivalism and domestic political shifts. Following the fall of the Suharto regime in 1998, democratization brought a wave of religious freedom and expression. The hijab transitioned from a politically charged symbol of resistance to a mainstream norm.