Interview with Mrs. Kavita Anggraeni - Hijab Scarf

1. Tell us about your experience wearing hijab and who motivates you?
I wore Hijab since April, 2005. I always wanted to wear one ever since I was in High School because as far as I know, that is an obligation for Moslem women. But I was still waiting for the right ‘time’, until my heart really says ‘this is it!’.

Honestly I also thought that back then, I couldn’t think of a ‘fashionable’ way of wearing hijab. So thank god for all the Moslem designers who are still ‘fighting’ up till now, to create a ‘fashionable’ Hijab . They inspired me a lot!

I can’t really think of anyone who motivated me because it comes from within. But for sure, my family and boyfriend (whose now my husband) supported me a lot back then , so I was mentally ready.

2. What things that have changed your life after wearing hijab?
Not much. I am still the same person, but one thing for sure is I feel much more peaceful, secure and confident because I knew I am doing something that my heart told me to. Before I was wearing hijab, I thought that I should be ‘perfect’ inside first before I use Hijab, but you know what, wearing it doesn’t mean we’re that ‘perfect’ or religious or simply a good person with no flaws. We still make mistakes and that is normal because we are human. Hijab is one way to be closer to God , but we also need to upgrade the inner side consistently also.


3. Is there any habit you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
Hmm, cant think of any.

4. Tell us the moment you start designing Kavi?
It was back in 2008, when I was pregnant for my first child. Maybe because it was the first experience having a child, so I wanted to be close to my son as much as possible. I wanted to take care of him myself. So I was searching for something I could do while I was breastfeeding and took care of my son at home.

I went to some cities around West Java and found ‘treasure’. Colorful Batik with contemporary motives. I was very excited since I am a fan of Batik but not the usual brown-old looking motives. I started designing a few blouses, set up an online shop, and the response was quite good. I’ve been doing it for almost 2 years now, loving it to the bone. Still lots of hopes and dreams to be achieved, so wish me luck!

5. Which one do you enjoy most; A working mom or a fulltime housewife? Tell us the advantages and the disadvantages from both sides.
The idea of a working mom who goes to the office everyday, 9 to 5 and loosing a lot of prescious moments with the children kills me. Having a child is a gift , and also an amana. At the end of the day, I want my children to remember me as a good mother who are there, emotionally and physically. But thinking of being a fulltime housewife with no social life also kills me. I would probably became paralyzed without something to do ,but just taking care of the household chores and family matters, because its just not who I am.

So I cant choose between the two. But if I have to, it’s definitely a working mom for me. But with one condition, I want to work and by that I mean to make a maximum use of our potentials, while I also being close to my husband and children. The right term for me then is probably a ‘work at home’ Mom. I love the idea of having my own SOHO (Small office, home office) so that I can work and do what I love doing while also being close to my family when they need me. Hopefully I can contribute something to the family in particular and also in the end, to the society at large.

6. Is your hijab style relating to KAVI style? What are the differences between both sides?
Not really. Actually, KAVI is not a special batik brand for Hijabers, but there are some designs like Maxi Dresses or Coats, or blouses that can be used for Hijabers, with a little ‘touch’ off course. My daily hijab style is just like what most of other Indonesian women used. I like no motives on my Hijab, just like it plain with different colors.

Mostly I use ‘ciput/underscarf’, because I have a round face, and I need to keep my hijab neat and tidy when I'm taking my 21 months son anywhere or probably going for a formal event. For a more casual event I sometime just wear my Tarha, Pashmina or even just my cotton-ink scarf to wear as a Hijab.

7. How do you get the inspiration of each style in Kavi? Tell us the steps.
As I have said before, I am not yet a designer, so I mostly get inspirations from clothes that I would like to wear myself. It’s a combination between the trend, conformity and color combo. There are no particular steps actually, sometimes I found an inspiration from browsing the designers collection, sometimes I get it when I imagine a really striking color combination then search for the right color textile with the design I had in mind, ask my tailor to interpret it and voila!

8. Any favorite brand inspired your style and Kavi Indonesia?
Edward Hutabarat, Mango, Anthropologie, Benetton, Top Shop, Gaudi. Anything casual , simple and you can use for your everyday life.

9. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything you avoid to wear?
I hate that flowery effect on the hijab that people mostly wear to the wedding parties. I think its unnatural and overwhelming. I used it before so I know how it looks on me. Its terrible! No flower on my hijab please..

10. When you start complaining about the hijab, what motivate you back?
I would contemplate and ask my heart, is this the right thing to do? Is this for real or am I just having a bad day or PMS? I would also ask myself about the commitment I made back then. For me, wearing hijab is a commitment. Hope we are among one of those people who always stay true to their commitment, amien.

11. When you stay in a non muslim country, do you have any experience to share?
I once stayed in The Netherlands on a 3 months short course. I met people from different countries and it was really fun to answer all their curious questions about hijab that I wore. Some girls from Nigeria and Nepal was really curious to see me without my hijab. It was funny. The atmosphere was quite okay for a Moslem back in the Netherlands, so I didn’t have any bad experience concerning hijab, Alhamdulillah.

12. Any words for a muslim working mom?
Okay, this going to sound a bit nationalistic but I have to let it out. In my humble opinion, in this era filled with excessive flow of information with very easy access, I think it is the right time for all moms to stay close to their children as much as possible. I think it is no longer the time for Mommies to spend most times outside the house and giving the responsibilities of educating their children to someone else (unless you have a very good support system).

It’s a different world compared to the world that our mothers one’s faced. The challenge these days is to be able to balance between our personal needs to contribute to the society while also being emotionally there for our children. It is a cruel world out there for our children, so lets give it our best. The future of Indonesia lies in our hands Mommies. There I let it out. Haha.

Posted on 10:33 PM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Kavita Anggraeni - Hijab Scarf

1. Tell us about your experience wearing hijab and who motivates you?
I wore Hijab since April, 2005. I always wanted to wear one ever since I was in High School because as far as I know, that is an obligation for Moslem women. But I was still waiting for the right ‘time’, until my heart really says ‘this is it!’.

Honestly I also thought that back then, I couldn’t think of a ‘fashionable’ way of wearing hijab. So thank god for all the Moslem designers who are still ‘fighting’ up till now, to create a ‘fashionable’ Hijab . They inspired me a lot!

I can’t really think of anyone who motivated me because it comes from within. But for sure, my family and boyfriend (whose now my husband) supported me a lot back then , so I was mentally ready.

2. What things that have changed your life after wearing hijab?
Not much. I am still the same person, but one thing for sure is I feel much more peaceful, secure and confident because I knew I am doing something that my heart told me to. Before I was wearing hijab, I thought that I should be ‘perfect’ inside first before I use Hijab, but you know what, wearing it doesn’t mean we’re that ‘perfect’ or religious or simply a good person with no flaws. We still make mistakes and that is normal because we are human. Hijab is one way to be closer to God , but we also need to upgrade the inner side consistently also.


3. Is there any habit you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
Hmm, cant think of any.

4. Tell us the moment you start designing Kavi?
It was back in 2008, when I was pregnant for my first child. Maybe because it was the first experience having a child, so I wanted to be close to my son as much as possible. I wanted to take care of him myself. So I was searching for something I could do while I was breastfeeding and took care of my son at home.

I went to some cities around West Java and found ‘treasure’. Colorful Batik with contemporary motives. I was very excited since I am a fan of Batik but not the usual brown-old looking motives. I started designing a few blouses, set up an online shop, and the response was quite good. I’ve been doing it for almost 2 years now, loving it to the bone. Still lots of hopes and dreams to be achieved, so wish me luck!

5. Which one do you enjoy most; A working mom or a fulltime housewife? Tell us the advantages and the disadvantages from both sides.
The idea of a working mom who goes to the office everyday, 9 to 5 and loosing a lot of prescious moments with the children kills me. Having a child is a gift , and also an amana. At the end of the day, I want my children to remember me as a good mother who are there, emotionally and physically. But thinking of being a fulltime housewife with no social life also kills me. I would probably became paralyzed without something to do ,but just taking care of the household chores and family matters, because its just not who I am.

So I cant choose between the two. But if I have to, it’s definitely a working mom for me. But with one condition, I want to work and by that I mean to make a maximum use of our potentials, while I also being close to my husband and children. The right term for me then is probably a ‘work at home’ Mom. I love the idea of having my own SOHO (Small office, home office) so that I can work and do what I love doing while also being close to my family when they need me. Hopefully I can contribute something to the family in particular and also in the end, to the society at large.

6. Is your hijab style relating to KAVI style? What are the differences between both sides?
Not really. Actually, KAVI is not a special batik brand for Hijabers, but there are some designs like Maxi Dresses or Coats, or blouses that can be used for Hijabers, with a little ‘touch’ off course. My daily hijab style is just like what most of other Indonesian women used. I like no motives on my Hijab, just like it plain with different colors.

Mostly I use ‘ciput/underscarf’, because I have a round face, and I need to keep my hijab neat and tidy when I'm taking my 21 months son anywhere or probably going for a formal event. For a more casual event I sometime just wear my Tarha, Pashmina or even just my cotton-ink scarf to wear as a Hijab.

7. How do you get the inspiration of each style in Kavi? Tell us the steps.
As I have said before, I am not yet a designer, so I mostly get inspirations from clothes that I would like to wear myself. It’s a combination between the trend, conformity and color combo. There are no particular steps actually, sometimes I found an inspiration from browsing the designers collection, sometimes I get it when I imagine a really striking color combination then search for the right color textile with the design I had in mind, ask my tailor to interpret it and voila!

8. Any favorite brand inspired your style and Kavi Indonesia?
Edward Hutabarat, Mango, Anthropologie, Benetton, Top Shop, Gaudi. Anything casual , simple and you can use for your everyday life.

9. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything you avoid to wear?
I hate that flowery effect on the hijab that people mostly wear to the wedding parties. I think its unnatural and overwhelming. I used it before so I know how it looks on me. Its terrible! No flower on my hijab please..

10. When you start complaining about the hijab, what motivate you back?
I would contemplate and ask my heart, is this the right thing to do? Is this for real or am I just having a bad day or PMS? I would also ask myself about the commitment I made back then. For me, wearing hijab is a commitment. Hope we are among one of those people who always stay true to their commitment, amien.

11. When you stay in a non muslim country, do you have any experience to share?
I once stayed in The Netherlands on a 3 months short course. I met people from different countries and it was really fun to answer all their curious questions about hijab that I wore. Some girls from Nigeria and Nepal was really curious to see me without my hijab. It was funny. The atmosphere was quite okay for a Moslem back in the Netherlands, so I didn’t have any bad experience concerning hijab, Alhamdulillah.

12. Any words for a muslim working mom?
Okay, this going to sound a bit nationalistic but I have to let it out. In my humble opinion, in this era filled with excessive flow of information with very easy access, I think it is the right time for all moms to stay close to their children as much as possible. I think it is no longer the time for Mommies to spend most times outside the house and giving the responsibilities of educating their children to someone else (unless you have a very good support system).

It’s a different world compared to the world that our mothers one’s faced. The challenge these days is to be able to balance between our personal needs to contribute to the society while also being emotionally there for our children. It is a cruel world out there for our children, so lets give it our best. The future of Indonesia lies in our hands Mommies. There I let it out. Haha.

Posted on 10:33 PM / 0 comments / Read More

Exclusive Interview with Mrs. Hana Tajima (StyleCovered) - Hijab Scarf

If you are a hijab blog surfer, you must be familiar with Hana Tajima or also known from Stylecovered.com. She has been a hot topic among Muslim blogger. She has also been featured at many media such as BBC UK and Brazillian press. It’s a pleasure for us to post her interview and her exclusive pic only for HijabScarf.

Hana Tajima is a 23 years old British Japanese designer who converted to Muslim five years ago.

Skaisthenewblack.blogspot writes, "She has wicked style, a very elegant and chic and yet somehow, modest".

On tonguechic.com Hana advices that, "Don't get caught up in what looks good on other people, just to fit in. You have to find something you're comfortable with, a look that expresses your personality."

"For both of us, she is one of a kind. She has been a great inspiration for us.
Believe it or not, HijabScarf was born after a long talk admiring her style."

Now, she is running her own line Maysaa. The clothes are truly inspiration and of course modest.

For HijabScarf, she is willing to share her thought the moment she start wearing hijab. We can learn not only her style but also her resoluteness and her faith on wearing hijab.

1. Tell us the moment you decide to wear hijab ?
I started wearing the hijab the day I took my shahada. I came to Islam in a really natural way and it was all a part of that. On a personal level it was a good way to distinguish what had gone before in my life, to what was in front of me.

2. What did you feel the first time you go out with your hijab on?
Without sounding too conflicted it was very real and very surreal at the same time. I was on my way to take my shahada, I was with my brother who is a photographer, so he was taking pictures of me. The way that it felt so normal, and that I was so at ease was why it felt strange. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it felt like this big thing in my mind. When I stepped out into the world it was as if the universe said “We’ve seen far stranger things” so it really wasn’t as dramatic as I thought it might have been.

3. You stated in your blog "Being a Muslimah in a western country can be a bit daunting especially when it comes to the stares! I wanted to create something that would help Muslimah’s everywhere keep motivated." How do you motivate yourself especially from the stares?
I think I’ve become less self conscious, and with that whether it means people stare less, or I just don’t notice it I guess it’s the same. At first with the way I was dressing I felt out of my skin, and that discomfort, however slight, is easily picked up on. Of course there are days when I get someone giving me critical stares, but I know why I dress the way I do, it’s a constant affirmation of what I believe. I suppose you have to accept that people will project their own misconceptions on to you, but don’t ever let that get in the way of what you want to do.

4. What changes do you notice within yourself or around you after wearing hijab?
The biggest change was in people around me, even close friends. I can understand that with all the connotations that come with hijab people were slightly uneasy with it. Almost everyone pretended it wasn’t there, but really badly pretended, like you could tell that was all they were thinking about. As I got more comfortable with it all, people were more relaxed. In general it takes about 5 minutes for someone to stop thinking ‘why would she wear that thing on her head’ and actually have a conversation with me. For me it’s never been much of an issue, it’s just a thing I wear.

5. How does StyleCovered affected your life?
It has had such a positive impact on me. Just to know that other people are going through the same mental processes as me, and that they get what I’m trying to do. It’s a very steep learning curve in terms of style and creativity. When you put yourself out there like that and you see it everyday you become very aware of what you like and don’t like. Maybe I’ve sketched something I thought at first was just ‘OK’, after seeing it for 5 days I think, actually I’ve kind of fallen in love with it.

6. Can you describe your style?
I never really know what to say when people ask me that. I suppose because it’s such a strange mix. One day I’ll be channeling old Hollywood glamor and the next I’ll be obsessed with 90’s rock/grunge. I tend to keep things understated and simple, maybe that’s my Japanese roots. I’m really drawn to juxtaposition as well, like throwing a vintage leather jacket over a girly floral maxi dress.

7. Tell us your most fav must item and item that you avoid to wear?
It changes almost weekly, but right now I’m living in the MAYSAA jersey maxi skirt and oversized vintage denim shirts. Although I’ve just got through some new samples which I’m totally besotted with. I avoid anything that’s uncomfortable to wear, apart from when it comes to shoes, I have a beautiful collection of insanely high-heels which I wear pretty much constantly!

8. Some says being stylish is about high expenses, meanwhile Islam teach
us to be modest. what do you think about this?
I am definitely stay away from overt displays of wealth. Clothes should be timeless and not something that will be thrown away after one season. I think that’s why I have such a connection to vintage clothing and what I always try to put into my own designs. It has personality and you can interpret it to become a part of your own style. I love how this goes against the logo laden image of fast fashion and makes it less about buying style.

9. What do you think about hijabi in Indonesia compare to other Muslim countries?
I get so much inspiration from Indonesian girls who wear hijab. In fact South East Asia in general has such a depth of culture it’s so captivating. The way you guys do colour is unlike anywhere else, and it’s something I’m trying to put into my own style. It’s amazing the self expression and variety of style, it’s something very close to my heart.

10. What inspire you to create maysaa? what went through your mind?
I’ve been designing from about the age of 5, both my parents are artists so it was a very creative environment to grow up in. MAYSAA is a beautiful culmination of all my creative expression and personality. I can’t say the clothes are just for Muslim women, or for non-Muslim women because my life has been a mixture of being both. I love designing from a very personal perspective, I want it to mean something to me and by doing that hopefully it will mean something to someone else too.

Posted on 1:41 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Exclusive Interview with Mrs. Hana Tajima (StyleCovered) - Hijab Scarf

If you are a hijab blog surfer, you must be familiar with Hana Tajima or also known from Stylecovered.com. She has been a hot topic among Muslim blogger. She has also been featured at many media such as BBC UK and Brazillian press. It’s a pleasure for us to post her interview and her exclusive pic only for HijabScarf.

Hana Tajima is a 23 years old British Japanese designer who converted to Muslim five years ago.

Skaisthenewblack.blogspot writes, "She has wicked style, a very elegant and chic and yet somehow, modest".

On tonguechic.com Hana advices that, "Don't get caught up in what looks good on other people, just to fit in. You have to find something you're comfortable with, a look that expresses your personality."

"For both of us, she is one of a kind. She has been a great inspiration for us.
Believe it or not, HijabScarf was born after a long talk admiring her style."

Now, she is running her own line Maysaa. The clothes are truly inspiration and of course modest.

For HijabScarf, she is willing to share her thought the moment she start wearing hijab. We can learn not only her style but also her resoluteness and her faith on wearing hijab.

1. Tell us the moment you decide to wear hijab ?
I started wearing the hijab the day I took my shahada. I came to Islam in a really natural way and it was all a part of that. On a personal level it was a good way to distinguish what had gone before in my life, to what was in front of me.

2. What did you feel the first time you go out with your hijab on?
Without sounding too conflicted it was very real and very surreal at the same time. I was on my way to take my shahada, I was with my brother who is a photographer, so he was taking pictures of me. The way that it felt so normal, and that I was so at ease was why it felt strange. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it felt like this big thing in my mind. When I stepped out into the world it was as if the universe said “We’ve seen far stranger things” so it really wasn’t as dramatic as I thought it might have been.

3. You stated in your blog "Being a Muslimah in a western country can be a bit daunting especially when it comes to the stares! I wanted to create something that would help Muslimah’s everywhere keep motivated." How do you motivate yourself especially from the stares?
I think I’ve become less self conscious, and with that whether it means people stare less, or I just don’t notice it I guess it’s the same. At first with the way I was dressing I felt out of my skin, and that discomfort, however slight, is easily picked up on. Of course there are days when I get someone giving me critical stares, but I know why I dress the way I do, it’s a constant affirmation of what I believe. I suppose you have to accept that people will project their own misconceptions on to you, but don’t ever let that get in the way of what you want to do.

4. What changes do you notice within yourself or around you after wearing hijab?
The biggest change was in people around me, even close friends. I can understand that with all the connotations that come with hijab people were slightly uneasy with it. Almost everyone pretended it wasn’t there, but really badly pretended, like you could tell that was all they were thinking about. As I got more comfortable with it all, people were more relaxed. In general it takes about 5 minutes for someone to stop thinking ‘why would she wear that thing on her head’ and actually have a conversation with me. For me it’s never been much of an issue, it’s just a thing I wear.

5. How does StyleCovered affected your life?
It has had such a positive impact on me. Just to know that other people are going through the same mental processes as me, and that they get what I’m trying to do. It’s a very steep learning curve in terms of style and creativity. When you put yourself out there like that and you see it everyday you become very aware of what you like and don’t like. Maybe I’ve sketched something I thought at first was just ‘OK’, after seeing it for 5 days I think, actually I’ve kind of fallen in love with it.

6. Can you describe your style?
I never really know what to say when people ask me that. I suppose because it’s such a strange mix. One day I’ll be channeling old Hollywood glamor and the next I’ll be obsessed with 90’s rock/grunge. I tend to keep things understated and simple, maybe that’s my Japanese roots. I’m really drawn to juxtaposition as well, like throwing a vintage leather jacket over a girly floral maxi dress.

7. Tell us your most fav must item and item that you avoid to wear?
It changes almost weekly, but right now I’m living in the MAYSAA jersey maxi skirt and oversized vintage denim shirts. Although I’ve just got through some new samples which I’m totally besotted with. I avoid anything that’s uncomfortable to wear, apart from when it comes to shoes, I have a beautiful collection of insanely high-heels which I wear pretty much constantly!

8. Some says being stylish is about high expenses, meanwhile Islam teach
us to be modest. what do you think about this?
I am definitely stay away from overt displays of wealth. Clothes should be timeless and not something that will be thrown away after one season. I think that’s why I have such a connection to vintage clothing and what I always try to put into my own designs. It has personality and you can interpret it to become a part of your own style. I love how this goes against the logo laden image of fast fashion and makes it less about buying style.

9. What do you think about hijabi in Indonesia compare to other Muslim countries?
I get so much inspiration from Indonesian girls who wear hijab. In fact South East Asia in general has such a depth of culture it’s so captivating. The way you guys do colour is unlike anywhere else, and it’s something I’m trying to put into my own style. It’s amazing the self expression and variety of style, it’s something very close to my heart.

10. What inspire you to create maysaa? what went through your mind?
I’ve been designing from about the age of 5, both my parents are artists so it was a very creative environment to grow up in. MAYSAA is a beautiful culmination of all my creative expression and personality. I can’t say the clothes are just for Muslim women, or for non-Muslim women because my life has been a mixture of being both. I love designing from a very personal perspective, I want it to mean something to me and by doing that hopefully it will mean something to someone else too.

Posted on 1:41 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Ms. Dian Pelangi - Hijab Scarf

Ms. Dian Pelangi

1. Tell us the moment you start wearing hijab?
When I was 4 years old, I went to Islamic primary school that obligates the student to wear hijab. That time I wear hijab only when I go to school. I started to wear hijab full time when I was 9 years old (grade 6). But then I took the hijab off when I was in high school. It is because I went to regular school that most students were not wearing hijab, so I felt kinda weird. However it only took one month to make me realize that I need to cover my head with jilbab. I felt weirder without my hijab on. I felt bald.

2. You are so young starting this business, Fashion Muslim Industry. Tell us the journey of creating your own fashion label?
I started school at 2 years old. After finished junior high school (12 years) I continued to Vocational schools at Pekalongan, Central Java, Indonesia. I took the clothing major and after that I continued my study to ESMOD Jakarta. Firstly, I planned to study abroad but my parents thought that I am too young for it. I was 16 back then. After finished from ESMOD for a year (17 years), I continued my study to Cairo, Egypt. Right now, I am just continuing my mom's boutique, called Dian Pelangi. She started it first, from nothing. She had no employee. Now, she handles over than 300 employees. People say that it's easy to continue what my mom had started. The truth is it isn't. I think it's easy nor hard. After I handle it, there are always a possibility to be decreased, increased or static. Now I think people can judge what I've done for it :)

3. What do you think about hijabi women in Indonesia compare to other countries?
I think, Indonesia have different style, a unique one. We are brave to follow the trend and break the rules but still "on the line". There is always uniqueness to hijabi women in every country; for example wearing half-length sleeve, showing their fringes, or wearing very tight clothing, then layer it. So we dont break the rules of hijab. That’s why I said 'still on the line'. Other country has their own style, so do we :D

4. We often heard that hijab has almost become a fashion accessory in itself. What do you think about that?
Hijab is not a trend, because hijab doesn't change, and trends are changing every time. Hijab is not an accessory, there are rules we need to follow. Wearing an accessory is not based on the rules, but hijab has it. You should cover up your body, no transparent fabrics, no too-tight dresses or anything similar. The important thing is wearing it from the heart.

5. What is your favorite must item and item that you avoid wearing?
My favorite stuff is high heels. It boosts my confidence up 10 times. The higher, the merrier. My other favorite stuff is a scarf to cover my chest. Stuff that I avoid so much is a tight turtleneck that people use to layer the sleeveless dress or anything similar. In my opinion, it looks like desperately-mixing-things. It’s just an opinion tho.

6. How do you get your inspiration?
From my experience, it depends on my mood. I wear whatever I want to wear .I don’t follow trend :D To get inspiration for my collection, I get it from people around me, magazine, internet, blog, and HijabScarf for sure :D

7. What are your goals in the future?
I really want to make a fast-fashion store like Zara but specifies for Moslem wear. I want to go international. I want every Moslem designer, everyone that may involve in Fashion Moslem and I, to make Indonesia as a Mecca of World Moslem Fashion. I want Moslem fashion to involve at any fashion week abroad. I have so much passion. Last but not least, I want to make my parents proud, everything I do is just to make them proud. That's it. :)

Posted on 1:33 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Ms. Dian Pelangi - Hijab Scarf

Ms. Dian Pelangi

1. Tell us the moment you start wearing hijab?
When I was 4 years old, I went to Islamic primary school that obligates the student to wear hijab. That time I wear hijab only when I go to school. I started to wear hijab full time when I was 9 years old (grade 6). But then I took the hijab off when I was in high school. It is because I went to regular school that most students were not wearing hijab, so I felt kinda weird. However it only took one month to make me realize that I need to cover my head with jilbab. I felt weirder without my hijab on. I felt bald.

2. You are so young starting this business, Fashion Muslim Industry. Tell us the journey of creating your own fashion label?
I started school at 2 years old. After finished junior high school (12 years) I continued to Vocational schools at Pekalongan, Central Java, Indonesia. I took the clothing major and after that I continued my study to ESMOD Jakarta. Firstly, I planned to study abroad but my parents thought that I am too young for it. I was 16 back then. After finished from ESMOD for a year (17 years), I continued my study to Cairo, Egypt. Right now, I am just continuing my mom's boutique, called Dian Pelangi. She started it first, from nothing. She had no employee. Now, she handles over than 300 employees. People say that it's easy to continue what my mom had started. The truth is it isn't. I think it's easy nor hard. After I handle it, there are always a possibility to be decreased, increased or static. Now I think people can judge what I've done for it :)

3. What do you think about hijabi women in Indonesia compare to other countries?
I think, Indonesia have different style, a unique one. We are brave to follow the trend and break the rules but still "on the line". There is always uniqueness to hijabi women in every country; for example wearing half-length sleeve, showing their fringes, or wearing very tight clothing, then layer it. So we dont break the rules of hijab. That’s why I said 'still on the line'. Other country has their own style, so do we :D

4. We often heard that hijab has almost become a fashion accessory in itself. What do you think about that?
Hijab is not a trend, because hijab doesn't change, and trends are changing every time. Hijab is not an accessory, there are rules we need to follow. Wearing an accessory is not based on the rules, but hijab has it. You should cover up your body, no transparent fabrics, no too-tight dresses or anything similar. The important thing is wearing it from the heart.

5. What is your favorite must item and item that you avoid wearing?
My favorite stuff is high heels. It boosts my confidence up 10 times. The higher, the merrier. My other favorite stuff is a scarf to cover my chest. Stuff that I avoid so much is a tight turtleneck that people use to layer the sleeveless dress or anything similar. In my opinion, it looks like desperately-mixing-things. It’s just an opinion tho.

6. How do you get your inspiration?
From my experience, it depends on my mood. I wear whatever I want to wear .I don’t follow trend :D To get inspiration for my collection, I get it from people around me, magazine, internet, blog, and HijabScarf for sure :D

7. What are your goals in the future?
I really want to make a fast-fashion store like Zara but specifies for Moslem wear. I want to go international. I want every Moslem designer, everyone that may involve in Fashion Moslem and I, to make Indonesia as a Mecca of World Moslem Fashion. I want Moslem fashion to involve at any fashion week abroad. I have so much passion. Last but not least, I want to make my parents proud, everything I do is just to make them proud. That's it. :)

Posted on 1:33 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Ms. Ria Miranda - Hijab Scarf

Ms. Ria Miranda

1. Tell us the moment you start wearing hijab?
I started wearing hijab since April 2005 after I went for umrah with my family. I feel convenience to wear hijab ever since.

2. Can you describe your style and tell us about your favourite must item?
I love shabby chic style so much! That inspires me to develop my product under the brand of Shabby Chic by Ria Miranda. In terms of color I prefer pale colors such as salmon pink, dusty pink, olive green,etc. My favorite must item is cardigan, because from cardigan we can develop several styles.

3. When did you start falling in love with fashion? How did it all start?
Becoming a designer has always been my dream job ever since childhood. I used to design clothes and some of my friends requested me to design their clothes when I was still in school. After graduating from university, I took fashion course at Esmod Fashion School and I knew that I am passionate about it. Then I had an opportunity to join Noor, a muslimah magazine, as a fashion stylist. From there, I gain enough experience and I started establishing my own business and developing my own brand for a specific segment the young muslimah.

4. You've been around Muslim fashion industry in Indonesia for quite sometime. In your opinion how is muslim fashion industry so far?
Recently, muslim fashion in Indonesia has a potential and a bright future. This is because Indonesia has the largest muslim population. There is also a strong trend among young generation to wear hijab in their daily life. Hijab is becoming a lifestyle among young muslimah. Furthermore, I believe that in the future Indonesia may become one of the centers of moslem fashion in the world.

5. Who is your fav designer?
Favorite designers are Chloe, Bottega Veneta, Marc Jacobs, Sonia Rykiel and Celine. Inspiring!

6. Is there anything that you avoid to wear since wearing hijab?
When someone wears hijab, as long as there is no violation on Islamic rules and regulation, nothing is to be avoided. I strongly believe that hijab is not a constraint for muslimah in doing daily activities.

Posted on 1:32 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Ms. Ria Miranda - Hijab Scarf

Ms. Ria Miranda

1. Tell us the moment you start wearing hijab?
I started wearing hijab since April 2005 after I went for umrah with my family. I feel convenience to wear hijab ever since.

2. Can you describe your style and tell us about your favourite must item?
I love shabby chic style so much! That inspires me to develop my product under the brand of Shabby Chic by Ria Miranda. In terms of color I prefer pale colors such as salmon pink, dusty pink, olive green,etc. My favorite must item is cardigan, because from cardigan we can develop several styles.

3. When did you start falling in love with fashion? How did it all start?
Becoming a designer has always been my dream job ever since childhood. I used to design clothes and some of my friends requested me to design their clothes when I was still in school. After graduating from university, I took fashion course at Esmod Fashion School and I knew that I am passionate about it. Then I had an opportunity to join Noor, a muslimah magazine, as a fashion stylist. From there, I gain enough experience and I started establishing my own business and developing my own brand for a specific segment the young muslimah.

4. You've been around Muslim fashion industry in Indonesia for quite sometime. In your opinion how is muslim fashion industry so far?
Recently, muslim fashion in Indonesia has a potential and a bright future. This is because Indonesia has the largest muslim population. There is also a strong trend among young generation to wear hijab in their daily life. Hijab is becoming a lifestyle among young muslimah. Furthermore, I believe that in the future Indonesia may become one of the centers of moslem fashion in the world.

5. Who is your fav designer?
Favorite designers are Chloe, Bottega Veneta, Marc Jacobs, Sonia Rykiel and Celine. Inspiring!

6. Is there anything that you avoid to wear since wearing hijab?
When someone wears hijab, as long as there is no violation on Islamic rules and regulation, nothing is to be avoided. I strongly believe that hijab is not a constraint for muslimah in doing daily activities.

Posted on 1:32 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Modest To Impress - Hijab Scarf

Transcending by Monika Jufry

These dresses are made by order with handmade ornaments. Each is crafted from the finest fabrics such as taffeta lace, tulle, georgette, satin, and silk which is creating a soft romantic look but also lavish. As you can see the simple drapery details (as my personal favourites so far), looks nice because you can make a lace fabric into a gorgeous bridesmaid uniform just like this.

Here is a short interview with Mrs. Monika Jufry, special for HijabScarf.
1. When and how do you start fashiom muslim industry?
I joined fashion industry in 1998. However, I am familiar with this industry ever since I was a kid. My mom used to run a business in it. It started when Indonesia had a crisis. I had just finished my college and finding a job back then was quite hard. Then, I went to Susan Buhardjo to have a fashion course. I started as her assistant at first, and then later joined APPMI (Asosiasi Perancang dan Pengusaha Mode Indonesia); a Fashion Designer Entrepreneur Asosiation in Indonesia. Then, I have my own line and help Sessa line.
*Sessa line is another line run by Monika Jufry

2. What do you think about hijabi women in Indonesia?
Alhamdulillah, I am happy seeing many Indonesian women with hijab. Hijabi woman in Indonesia are getting more comfortable, confidence and stylish in many kind of professions. However, the most important thing is I hope many Indonesian women with hijabi are having a stronger faith in Allah and willing to remain their self better.

3. Some people say fashion cannot run in line with the principal of modesty. Being fashionable is all about high expenses, meanwhile Islam teach us to be modest and humble. What do you think about this?
In my humble opinion, the most important thing is never enforce yourself beyond your ability. Fashion and modesty should run in line, You dont need to spend a fortune to look fashionable. Here is where creativity is needed.

4. What do you think about Muslim fashion design in Indonesia compare to other countries?
Moslem fashion in Indonesia is very various in terms of style, cutting, garment, and details. Since Indonesia is a rich cultural country, we will have abundance of things to explore. Besides, Indonesian women have a strong demand to be stylish therefore it develop the Moslem fashion Industry.

5. Tell me about your last fashion show. I heard Trancending is inspired from Avatar the animation. How do you get the inspiration actually?
Transcending is the theme for Sessa’s and Monika Jufry’s line. It means a journey to be mature and established both brand in order to become a well-known and accepted brand, especially for muslim fashion industry. Sessa is a ready to wear line while Monika Jufry is a private order inspired by Avatar the animation. When you see drapery from clothes in Avatar, I found that the play between the power and the romanticism from the Kung-fu style very interesting. I think we can find inspiration anywhere, such as from movie, magazine, browsing etc.

6. Any word for sister who plan to wear hijab?
Remind yourself that wearing hijab comes by the grace of Allah SWT, hence InsyaAllah we will become stronger, facing any doubt.

Digital Imaging : Mrs. Fifi Alvianto

Not allowed to copy & paste photos.
Copyright of HijabScarf Blog.

Posted on 1:06 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Modest To Impress - Hijab Scarf

Transcending by Monika Jufry

These dresses are made by order with handmade ornaments. Each is crafted from the finest fabrics such as taffeta lace, tulle, georgette, satin, and silk which is creating a soft romantic look but also lavish. As you can see the simple drapery details (as my personal favourites so far), looks nice because you can make a lace fabric into a gorgeous bridesmaid uniform just like this.

Here is a short interview with Mrs. Monika Jufry, special for HijabScarf.
1. When and how do you start fashiom muslim industry?
I joined fashion industry in 1998. However, I am familiar with this industry ever since I was a kid. My mom used to run a business in it. It started when Indonesia had a crisis. I had just finished my college and finding a job back then was quite hard. Then, I went to Susan Buhardjo to have a fashion course. I started as her assistant at first, and then later joined APPMI (Asosiasi Perancang dan Pengusaha Mode Indonesia); a Fashion Designer Entrepreneur Asosiation in Indonesia. Then, I have my own line and help Sessa line.
*Sessa line is another line run by Monika Jufry

2. What do you think about hijabi women in Indonesia?
Alhamdulillah, I am happy seeing many Indonesian women with hijab. Hijabi woman in Indonesia are getting more comfortable, confidence and stylish in many kind of professions. However, the most important thing is I hope many Indonesian women with hijabi are having a stronger faith in Allah and willing to remain their self better.

3. Some people say fashion cannot run in line with the principal of modesty. Being fashionable is all about high expenses, meanwhile Islam teach us to be modest and humble. What do you think about this?
In my humble opinion, the most important thing is never enforce yourself beyond your ability. Fashion and modesty should run in line, You dont need to spend a fortune to look fashionable. Here is where creativity is needed.

4. What do you think about Muslim fashion design in Indonesia compare to other countries?
Moslem fashion in Indonesia is very various in terms of style, cutting, garment, and details. Since Indonesia is a rich cultural country, we will have abundance of things to explore. Besides, Indonesian women have a strong demand to be stylish therefore it develop the Moslem fashion Industry.

5. Tell me about your last fashion show. I heard Trancending is inspired from Avatar the animation. How do you get the inspiration actually?
Transcending is the theme for Sessa’s and Monika Jufry’s line. It means a journey to be mature and established both brand in order to become a well-known and accepted brand, especially for muslim fashion industry. Sessa is a ready to wear line while Monika Jufry is a private order inspired by Avatar the animation. When you see drapery from clothes in Avatar, I found that the play between the power and the romanticism from the Kung-fu style very interesting. I think we can find inspiration anywhere, such as from movie, magazine, browsing etc.

6. Any word for sister who plan to wear hijab?
Remind yourself that wearing hijab comes by the grace of Allah SWT, hence InsyaAllah we will become stronger, facing any doubt.

Digital Imaging : Mrs. Fifi Alvianto

Not allowed to copy & paste photos.
Copyright of HijabScarf Blog.

Posted on 1:06 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Anneke Scorpy Situmorang - Hijab Scarf

Anneke Scorpy Situmorang, 28 years old

a brand-new full time housewive

(Anne's just having her daughter 3 months ago)

1. Tell us about your experience wearing hijab and who motivates you?

I learn Islam from a regular moslem gathering held at my house. We have a question and answer session with Moslem leader. I also join ESQ Training, a popular training about how to manage your emotional and spiritual quotient. Moreover, i also browse and read books regarding Moslem especially about hijab. In the end, I decide to cover myself after I went umrah April 21, 2006. I believe my decision of having myself covered is because of blessing and pray from my parents.

2. Beside clothes, what other things that have changed your life after wearing hijab?

I have different perspectives about women in hijab. I used to think that women in hijab is quite boring and thinking nothing but religion. Now, I think hijab is no longger barrier to be anything you want.

3. Is there any habit you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?

I try to avoid places that serves non-halal food or drink

4. What is your biggest challenge after wearing hijab?

My biggest challenge is to train myself to be patient. People tend to think that a woman in hijab is guiltiness, innocent or have no sin. We don't have a freedom to pursue what we like because society have this "certain" image of what a hijabi should be and we are forced to accept that expectations.

5. Determine your hijab style

Im basically a mix and match lover. I like to mix sleeveless dress with cardigans or simply mix long blouse with legging. Surprisingly, wearing different dress can boost my confident up.

6. Any fav brand, celebrities inspire your style?

I am not brand minded since I wear anything looks good on me. Sometime I just wear my moms scarf or her vintage bags. I also like to browse facehunter.blogspot.com just to check their street style from different countries. Very inspiring.

7. Any particular clothes / style / material or anything you avoid to wear?

A long H-line abayas. I don't know. it looks like what my mom would wear. I don't wear thick material like wool. its just too hot to wear it in Indonesia.

8. What motivate you back when you feel down about hijab?

Sharing with hijabi friends and keep telling myself that Allah obliged every sister to cover my head and Allah know what is best for His ummah.

Posted on 12:47 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Anneke Scorpy Situmorang - Hijab Scarf

Anneke Scorpy Situmorang, 28 years old

a brand-new full time housewive

(Anne's just having her daughter 3 months ago)

1. Tell us about your experience wearing hijab and who motivates you?

I learn Islam from a regular moslem gathering held at my house. We have a question and answer session with Moslem leader. I also join ESQ Training, a popular training about how to manage your emotional and spiritual quotient. Moreover, i also browse and read books regarding Moslem especially about hijab. In the end, I decide to cover myself after I went umrah April 21, 2006. I believe my decision of having myself covered is because of blessing and pray from my parents.

2. Beside clothes, what other things that have changed your life after wearing hijab?

I have different perspectives about women in hijab. I used to think that women in hijab is quite boring and thinking nothing but religion. Now, I think hijab is no longger barrier to be anything you want.

3. Is there any habit you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?

I try to avoid places that serves non-halal food or drink

4. What is your biggest challenge after wearing hijab?

My biggest challenge is to train myself to be patient. People tend to think that a woman in hijab is guiltiness, innocent or have no sin. We don't have a freedom to pursue what we like because society have this "certain" image of what a hijabi should be and we are forced to accept that expectations.

5. Determine your hijab style

Im basically a mix and match lover. I like to mix sleeveless dress with cardigans or simply mix long blouse with legging. Surprisingly, wearing different dress can boost my confident up.

6. Any fav brand, celebrities inspire your style?

I am not brand minded since I wear anything looks good on me. Sometime I just wear my moms scarf or her vintage bags. I also like to browse facehunter.blogspot.com just to check their street style from different countries. Very inspiring.

7. Any particular clothes / style / material or anything you avoid to wear?

A long H-line abayas. I don't know. it looks like what my mom would wear. I don't wear thick material like wool. its just too hot to wear it in Indonesia.

8. What motivate you back when you feel down about hijab?

Sharing with hijabi friends and keep telling myself that Allah obliged every sister to cover my head and Allah know what is best for His ummah.

Posted on 12:47 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Nanida Jenahara - Hijab Scarf

Mrs.Nanida Jenahara

Freelance Designer and a Proud Mother

1. When did you start wearing hijab ?
Since I was 13 years old. I always thought that women look more beautiful when they are wearing hijab.It sounds cliche, but I really feel that way :)

2. Who motivate you?
My parents. I grew up in a very religious family and they already start to put religious norms since we were kids. However, I'm not saying that my parents are very strict. I also get a strong motivation from my mom, as a Muslim Fashion Designer since I was a kid.

3. How do you feel to be a daughter of a well known muslim designer?
It is easy and hard at the same time. The good thing is that I can really talk about Fashion with my mom and get the benefit of having tailor made clothes for free. The not-so-good thing is that I get compared to her. We have our own style. Then sometime I get complain from my mom about my style.

4. Beside clothes, what other thing that has changed your life?
Nothing has changed. This is my life and hijab has been my identity of being a muslim. It should not limit me doing something that I want to do as long it is positive.

5. What difficulties that you encounter after wearing hijab?
Sometimes people expect more of me but I never worried about it. The hardest part is since fashion has always been my passion, not all the trends I can follow. I learn to understand what works on me and doesn’t, and filter trends accordingly.

6. Any habit that you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
Not really. Wearing hijab or not, my friends still think I am talkative, splashy and I like doing silly things ("__")

7. What advantages do you feel after wearing hijab?
It cannot be doubted that first impression on me is I’m quite and pious person. My friends also sometime ask some religious matters. And to be able to answer their questions make me feel happy. It is my way to worship God by spreading the useful knowledge.

8. What is your hijab style?
I have no particular style, I dress based on how I feel. It all depends on my mood.

9. Where do you buy clothes and hijab?
I mostly make my own clothes. I rarely buy hijab. I get a lot from my mom and she has a wide range of good collections. However, Zara and Topshop always be my favorite ones.

10. Favorite brand?
Alexander Mcqueen, Lanvin, Etro, Thomas Wylde, Balenciaga, Hussein Chalayan and Jean Pierre Braganza.

11. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything that you avoid to wear?
I don't like wearing anything under my scarf. I don't really like pink and I don't like the “army look” style. After all, I think it’s ridiculous to have it as a trend.

12. Have you ever think to take the hijab off?
Yes. I have always been haunted by these thoughts. I've been wearing hijab for nearly half of my life. Sometimes I just want to know what it's like not wearing hijab. But I always remind myself, wearing hijab is a form of worship rather than demands.

13. Any experience regarding hijab?
When I was on a vacation to Melbourne, I went to a vintage store then a girl came up and said she really like my style. She also said she rarely see people who wear the hijab but still can look stylish. For me it is a compliment that I have never forgotten.

Posted on 11:15 PM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Nanida Jenahara - Hijab Scarf

Mrs.Nanida Jenahara

Freelance Designer and a Proud Mother

1. When did you start wearing hijab ?
Since I was 13 years old. I always thought that women look more beautiful when they are wearing hijab.It sounds cliche, but I really feel that way :)

2. Who motivate you?
My parents. I grew up in a very religious family and they already start to put religious norms since we were kids. However, I'm not saying that my parents are very strict. I also get a strong motivation from my mom, as a Muslim Fashion Designer since I was a kid.

3. How do you feel to be a daughter of a well known muslim designer?
It is easy and hard at the same time. The good thing is that I can really talk about Fashion with my mom and get the benefit of having tailor made clothes for free. The not-so-good thing is that I get compared to her. We have our own style. Then sometime I get complain from my mom about my style.

4. Beside clothes, what other thing that has changed your life?
Nothing has changed. This is my life and hijab has been my identity of being a muslim. It should not limit me doing something that I want to do as long it is positive.

5. What difficulties that you encounter after wearing hijab?
Sometimes people expect more of me but I never worried about it. The hardest part is since fashion has always been my passion, not all the trends I can follow. I learn to understand what works on me and doesn’t, and filter trends accordingly.

6. Any habit that you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
Not really. Wearing hijab or not, my friends still think I am talkative, splashy and I like doing silly things ("__")

7. What advantages do you feel after wearing hijab?
It cannot be doubted that first impression on me is I’m quite and pious person. My friends also sometime ask some religious matters. And to be able to answer their questions make me feel happy. It is my way to worship God by spreading the useful knowledge.

8. What is your hijab style?
I have no particular style, I dress based on how I feel. It all depends on my mood.

9. Where do you buy clothes and hijab?
I mostly make my own clothes. I rarely buy hijab. I get a lot from my mom and she has a wide range of good collections. However, Zara and Topshop always be my favorite ones.

10. Favorite brand?
Alexander Mcqueen, Lanvin, Etro, Thomas Wylde, Balenciaga, Hussein Chalayan and Jean Pierre Braganza.

11. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything that you avoid to wear?
I don't like wearing anything under my scarf. I don't really like pink and I don't like the “army look” style. After all, I think it’s ridiculous to have it as a trend.

12. Have you ever think to take the hijab off?
Yes. I have always been haunted by these thoughts. I've been wearing hijab for nearly half of my life. Sometimes I just want to know what it's like not wearing hijab. But I always remind myself, wearing hijab is a form of worship rather than demands.

13. Any experience regarding hijab?
When I was on a vacation to Melbourne, I went to a vintage store then a girl came up and said she really like my style. She also said she rarely see people who wear the hijab but still can look stylish. For me it is a compliment that I have never forgotten.

Posted on 11:15 PM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Fifi Alvianto - Hijab Scarf

1. When did you start wearing hijab?
I started wearing hijab in 2009 after I got married, about 9 months ago. It was one of the hardest decisions in my life and of course a big shock to everyone because it was kinda like "What! Fifi is wearing hijab now? Oh come on, seriously!?". Yeah people disbelieved what they saw but anyway most of them really like the new me. They said the bad side of me had gone forever because of the hijab image, lol.

2. Who motivate you?
First my father asked me to wear hijab before I got married, I refused because I'm not ready at all. Hijab is not only a change of style but a change of personalities. Well thank God, my husband encouraged me in my decision. He knew I wanted to wear it but I'm not ready at that time. Also my sister who started a few months early had made me believe, hijab will not make you feel unstylish.

3. Beside clothes, what other thing that has changed your life?
Definitely a change of perspective in the new look. Mostly people think Hijab = 'a good girl'. So there you go, what ever you do, you have to know how to impress people because you are what you represent. But the biggest change is, I get more closer to God.

4. What difficulties that you encounter after wearing hijab?
I'm not wearing a perfect hijab, you know the one covers your chest, I'm still learning. Sometimes my neck and my hair are not fully covered or I wear a fitted shirt but my mom said it's okay, people have their own time to learn what's best for themselves. Another difficulties is mix and match all of my clothes has always been more difficult than before wearing hijab.

5. Any habit that you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
Lots of bad habit, but I can't tell ya' here :) Hijab definitely change me into a better person, and get rid of bad habbit, (*shoo, go away negative part of me).

6. What advantages do you feel after wearing hijab?
Wearing hijab given me so much confidence and now I have my stress-free daily morning routine, no more "straighten my hair with flat iron hair" which takes ages because my hair is curly and thick, and the best one is I feel safe wherever I go. People seems to be more polite and no more harassment.

7. What is your hijab style?
I called it Spanish style.

8. Where do you buy clothes and hijabs?
I enjoy having my office above the Senayan City Mall, almost everything I bought from Debenhams which is also my favourite store, I can find lots of brand here. For hijab scarf I bought it at Ambassador mall (lots of variant).

9. Favorite brand?
Zara for pants and jackets, Next for shoes (the 40 size is bigger than any other brand which is perfect for my feet). Magnolia for basic turtleneck tee.

10. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything that you avoid to wear?
Dislike synthetic fabric, I have hyperhidrosis (the medical term for excessive or uncontrollable sweating), I just don't get along well with this fabric. So pure cotton is the best.

11. Have you ever think to take the hijab off?
Yup, but after that I've always asked myself, why? Hijab is a good thing, period.

12. Any experience regarding hijab?
I remember how confused and scared I was the first day I put on hijab and went out into public. Once wearing hijab, you are suddenly announcing to everyone who sees you that “I am a Muslim”. I thought it will be difficult for me because in here women wearing hijab is still a minority but now I found hijab as one of the best thing that's happened in my life so far. Also muslim designers and magazines offered me lots of job since I wear hijab, and I'm thankful for that.


For me, "Dressing modestly is a better way to respect your image, body and attitude", and make your skin whiter than before :D


Mrs. Fifi Alvianto

Posted on 11:08 PM / 0 comments / Read More

Interview with Mrs. Hanna Faridl - Hijab Scarf

1. When did you start wearing hijab?
It was early 2005 after a never-ending asks from my father and after he sent me hajj. It's a nice feeling to make your parents proud rite? But after years wearing hijab, i feel that my hijab has been protecting me inside and out.

2. Who motivate you?
My father is my biggest influence.

3. Beside clothes, what other thing that has changed your life?
I don’t feel a lot of change. But I do feel people change their opinion about me. So somehow, the changes from outside has changed me.

4. What difficulties that you encounter after wearing hijab?
One of the hardest part is handling the judgments from people around you. Before, the layers clothes, the loose clothes, the mix and match clothes and scarves are like my daily mumbling. I get used to it. After years wearing hijab, the hardest is to maintain my faith and keep it strong, to be devoted to Allah.

5. Any habit that you stop doing ever since wearing hijab?
I don't feel comfortable going to any place with low light and having those “lounge” image. So I prefer not going to those places anymore. If I do, I mostly wear hat and neck scarf. I cannot handle the stare from people.

6. What advantages do you feel after wearing hijab?
To be honest, wearing hijab is having a privilege of a good first impression. Like Hanna the nice girl, Hanna the well manner women which sometime first impression can trick you. However my hijab is like a reminder not to only look good outside but also good inside.

7. What is your hijab style?
My clothes and my scarves are having the same tone of colors. Most of them are almost in soft colors. It easier to get them mixes. My favorites are cardigans and pants that are loose on my hip.

8. Where do you buy clothes and hijabs?
Trade centers are always the best place to buy scarves. I like Zara’s clothes. Most of the time, I buy one item from there and have a tailor made similar to those Zara’s clothes.

9. Favorite brand?
Anything from Urban Outfitters. Yeay!

10. Any particular clothes/style/material or anything that you avoid to wear?
I don’t wear anything under my scarf and I avoid anything that my moms wear. It’s just to avoid me look older or similar to a momma looking lady.

11. Have you ever think to take the hijab off?
Yes. It comes up when I want to swim, when it’s hot, even when I don’t know what to wear. But it is just a thought. Never have the guts to take it off. I believe my hijab will always protect myself inside and out.

12. Any experience regarding hijab?
When I was in Los Angeles 2007, I often got weird questions. For example where Osama Bin laden is, why Muhammad married kids, and some other questions that I would never get when I live in a Moslem Country. It’s not weird when you know the answer but these questions seem rhetorical to me. Well I didn’t know the answer and it made me realize that I know nothing but to cover my head. Until now I still have so much homework learning my religion and learning how to behave upon other judgments. Moreover, learning that hijab is not about what you wear but how you behave upon your dress.


Mrs. Hanna Faridl

Posted on 11:08 PM / 0 comments / Read More