Many people use fashion and style as a means of expressing themselves as an individual. However, for those who must adhere to certain rules based on their faith or religion, it can be difficult to be as fashionable without it being frowned upon. Fashionable modest Islamic clothing has been on the rise in recent times, allowing women of Islamic faith to also express themselves through style, without sacrificing their beliefs or values.

Apparel of this nature is supposed to be loose and not show one's figure, unlike many other popular form-fitting clothing styles. Both men and women are required to conceal their bodies with the exception of only hands, feet and face. Women cannot show off their collarbone or neckline. Men are not supposed to show any body parts between their stomach and knee.

It is the belief that one should not be judged by their beauty and also should be known for their true selves and not an image portrayed by clothing. Furthermore, it is very important that one's manner of dress should be appropriate enough to conduct matters in a business atmosphere. Last, but not least, it is important to dress for comfort.

Even though you have to follow these rules when it comes to modesty, the good news is that you don't have any strict limitations to follow when it comes to style, fabric choice or even color. Traditionally, you will find a lot of dark colors like black, blue and grey being worn. However, you may very well incorporate a little bit of you into what you wear by choosing a different color, or even a print, into certain styles.

For women, the options include the abaya and the jilbab. The abaya - perhaps the most popular choice of apparel for comfort and fit - is a loose-fitting, full-length robe with sleeves. The jilbab looks more like a raincoat or coat dress. Men may wear thobes, head to toe coverings, or galabiyyas, which are long, white robes.

In places like Iran, there is another style of clothing known as the chador. It is worn outdoors and is very much like a full-length cape. It is a piece of fabric cut in a semicircle shape that slips over the head. It cannot be fastened and has not buttons or other closures, but the woman and girls who wear this garment either hold it closed with their hands or tuck it under their arms.

Though Islamic apparel can be very simple, there are other ways that one can incorporate a bit of style without going against the grain completely. Beaded trims or appliques are very popular to add something different, and not only color. The fabric choice can vary as well, even though cotton is often the top choice. Cotton is perfect for cooling the body in high temperatures, and also lasts longer due to being easy to care for.

For attractive modesty apparel, Nailah Lymus is a designer to watch. She has her brand, Amirah Creations, at New York Fashion Week and has received much attention for pushing the boundaries for women who wish to look fashionable but maintain the rules of their faith. Her line also includes new and different head coverings for clients, in place of the hijab.