To honor World Hijab Day, StyleEsteem was proud to present a fashion show at Bronx Borough Hall, in collaboration with Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and Bronx Fashion Week. Set within one of the Bronx’s most historic civic spaces, the day brought together fashion, culture, and community to celebrate the beauty and significance of the hijab through design and storytelling.
What is the hijab?
The hijab is a form of head covering worn by Muslim women as an expression of faith, modesty, identity, and personal devotion. Its history spans more than 1,400 years, and today it is worn by millions of women across more than 100 countries worldwide. While styles, fabrics, and interpretations vary by region and culture, the hijab often represents a deep connection to spirituality, tradition, and community—serving as both a personal practice and a visible expression of belonging.
What is World Hijab Day?
World Hijab Day is an annual global observance held on February 1 that invites people of all backgrounds to learn about, experience, and celebrate the hijab as a symbol of faith, identity, and choice. Founded in 2013 by Nazma Khan, the day was created to promote understanding, challenge stereotypes, and foster solidarity with Muslim women who choose to wear the hijab. Observed in over 190 countries, World Hijab Day highlights the cultural, spiritual, and personal significance of the hijab while encouraging conversations around religious freedom, self-expression, and inclusion. At its heart, the day is about visibility, respect, and honoring the diverse ways women around the world express their beliefs and belonging.
Our World Hijab Day fashion show.
Our World Hijab Day fashion presentation featured 15 models walking the runway, each adorned in a one-of-a-kind headpiece handmade by StyleEsteem founder and creative director Sonya Keshwani, along with elegant modest fashion kaftans. Created exclusively for this show, the pieces were designed to highlight the glamour, elegance, and artistry of the hijab. Intricate details included handmade jewel appliqués, hand-beaded feathers, diamond trim, embroidered netting, and heirloom trimmings upcycled from Indian sarees—honoring craftsmanship, cultural continuity, and the beauty of adornment with intention.
Participating in World Hijab Day was deeply meaningful to us. At StyleEsteem, we believe fashion is a powerful language—one that can express faith, identity, beauty, and unity all at once. Through this show, we hoped to celebrate the hijab not only as a religious and cultural tradition, but as a symbol of self-expression and dignity. Our message to the community is simple: when fashion is approached with respect and curiosity, it becomes a bridge—connecting stories, honoring heritage, and reminding us that beauty can be both deeply personal and universally shared.
Our Couture Hijab Collection is coming soon. Click here to learn when this exclusive collection is released.
