Once upon a time, the fashion industry was seen as an adversary to the modest Muslimah style. However, these days it seems like modesty and fashion are working side by side by creating styles that are more Muslimah-friendly. This time I explore the outcome of a combination between two wardrobe essentials – the button-up shirt and the knee-length skirt –  wait for it… the shirt dress. Effortless and modest, the shirt dress is also every Muslim woman’s go-to fashion fix. From casual, to corporate, to colour-blocking, the shirt dress is perfect for the modern Muslimah who wants to be stylish without compromising her modesty.

Styling a shirt dress for the casual look requires almost no thought at all. Be chic and casual in this denim Asos shirt dress and match it with your favourite skirt or jeans, slip on a pair of gladiator flats, a trusty black scarf and you’re good to go. If you’re in a colourful mood why not show it with summery shade handbag.

Colour blocking is so hot right now and the shirt dress is no stranger to the trend which is all about being bold and fun. This tan and turquoise Asos shirt dress is the colour-blocker’s best friend. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colours but don’t be a fashion victim either. The key to colour-blocking successfully is to keep the rest of your outfit simple.

Whether you’re off to lunch with your friends or meeting up with business clients, this Nana G mandarin-collared shirt dress is a sure winner. Pastel shades are ideal for day wear and the oriental design adds a charming touch to the ensemble. So modest and elegant, what’s not to love about the shirt dress?

Who says you can’t wear a business shirt and be modest at the same time? This Zara shirt dress is simple yet professional looking, not only will you look great but you will feel confident too. Break away from the comfort of the black blazer by wearing a white blazer instead. Think ‘sophistication’ and ‘modern’ while accessorising for your shirt dress and you’ve got the perfect outfit for work.

Vintage-inspired pieces such as this Top Shop vine-leaf print shirt dress are anything but old-fashioned. If vintage is your thing you should embrace it because the fashion world is always recycling trends. Stick to floral prints and shades of brown to create the perfect vintage look. You’ll be the belle of crowd in no time.

Every girl looks forward to dressing up for a special occasion. This sleeveless nude shirt dress by Asos reflects the classy woman who lives by Coco Chanel’s motto: Less is more. While the dress is simple, the ensemble doesn’t have to be boring. Dress to impress by pairing the shirt dress with a sequinned-bolero and put on your most glamourous accessories such as a favourite designer handbag and some vintage jewellery. Coco would be so proud of you.

Shahirah Elaiza Wan Hassan
Shahirah Elaiza is a Communication Studies graduate who is currently living in New Zealand. She is a modern-day Muslimah who is always rediscovering the true meaning of Islam and what it means to believe in God. In her spare time, Shahirah enjoys travelling and blogging about Islam, fashion and her latest adventures on her personal blog, Colours of My Life.