Simple brooches or scarf rings can change a look. Photo: TudungPeople
With minimalist pins, sculptural brooches and sleek caps, hijab styling is becoming more creative.
Malaysian women are blending modesty with modernity by using accessories, adding an edge and a personal touch to the usual hijab styling.
Satin and chiffon scarves are being paired with ruched inners creating volume and texture, and statement pins and even jewelled tiaras are used for styling.
Even the classic brooch is making a comeback, worn asymmetrically or in clusters for a touch of glamour.
Hijabista.com.my names bucket hats, boater hats, duckbill clips, large sunglasses, earrings as the top accessories to elevate your look.
Playing a role in this evolution are modest wear brands that have introduced chic options to headscarf-wearers, as well as hijabistas on social media giving tutorials on how a simple square scarf can be transformed with layering techniques and embellishments.
Sleek and fashion-forward
From draped silhouettes held together by pins or rings and paired with matte satin scarves to sporty hijab-friendly caps styled with oversized sunglasses for a streetwear-inspired look, Malaysian modestwear trends vary from subtle chic to bold and edgy.
Zairin Azman, founder of homegrown brand Umma, which combines modern aesthetics and modesty, weighs in on hijab accessories.
“Current trends would be decorative hijab brooches and pins. It is practical and suitable for everyday wear,” she says.
TudungPeople founder Fazrena Aziz notes that lately, hijab styling is shifting more towards comfort and individuality.
“Minimalist accessories are in – comfortable inners, scarf rings and matching earrings that don’t interfere with the hijab.
People are leaning towards pieces that are practical, but still elevate their overall look. Photo: Umma“People are leaning towards pieces that are practical but still elevate their overall look. It’s less about heavy layering and more about clean, polished styling,” she says.
“At TudungPeople, we focus on the essentials that complement our scarves – from comfortable inner caps that stay put all day, minimal brooches, and scarf rings that add a subtle touch of style.”
Read more: How modern-day abayas and kaftans stay true to modestwear codes
The modest wear brand spends a lot of time researching the production of the scarves themselves, ensuring fabrics and cuts drape beautifully without needing too many accessories.
“For us, accessories are there to enhance, not to overpower – everything should still feel true to your personal style,” says Fazrena, whose brand offers hijab pins, rings and brooches to help with styling and securing.
Najihah Mohd Shahrudin, founder of modest wear brand Bi.Albak says that among the accessories that are always in trend are definitely earrings, caps and thick headbands with embellishments on them.
On a daily basis she keeps it simple.
“Simple, on the go and fast, a look that uses just one pin or sometimes not even a pin, depending on the hijab material.
“On special occasions, we opt for more elaborate styles with lots of pins and brooches,” says Najihah.
For occasions such as weddings, content creators like Aktara Khatun have numerous tutorials on how to style fancier accessories such as tiaras to complement your headscarf.
While this involves intricate detailing and a bunch of pins, the end result is worth it.
Opt for a slim, structured tiara that sits comfortably on the crown of the head, just above the scarf line, and for a sleek, polished look, drape your hijab neatly with minimal folds, allowing the tiara to take centre stage.
Keeping it chic
Most of the time, elaborate draping styles and opulent accessories are best saved for special occasions, and many adopt minimalist styles for the day-to-day.
“Keep it simple and functional. Pair it with a good inner so your hijab stays in place all day,” says Zairin.
At the heart of these trends is intention – the new wave of modest fashion celebrates individuality while staying true to faith and comfort. Photo: TudungPeopleLess is always more, says Fazrena, who is a believer in choosing one statement piece.
“Maybe a pretty scarf ring or a statement brooch – and keep the rest simple. The key is balance: if your hijab print is bold, go with neutral or subtle accessories; if your hijab is plain, you can afford a little sparkle,” she says.
“I always say, your hijab should still be the main centrepiece – accessories are just there to frame it,” adds Fazrena.
Read more: Modern modestwear in Malaysia focuses on comfort, style and versatility
At the heart of these trends is intention – the new wave of modest fashion celebrates individuality while staying true to faith and comfort.
“Hijab styling has become increasingly expressive, focusing on subtle personalisation rather than elaborate wrapping,” says Zairin.
“In essence, these details let someone curate their modesty, showing personality through texture, tone and detail instead of exposure,” she adds.
Fazrena notes that small details make a big difference.
“The type of accessory you choose says a lot about your personality – whether you’re drawn to minimal and clean lines, or feminine and elegant touches.
“A pin placement, the choice of material, even how you wear your scarf – these are all expressions of who you are. I think that’s the beauty of hijab – it’s subtle, but deeply personal.”
Najihah notes, “Adding these additional details definitely elevates the whole look from looking boring to something wow and it definitely brings out someone’s personality. It shows how a person is focus on detailing and it shows the person’s characteristics and behaviours.”
As local brands and hijab wearers embrace a variety of materials and timeless designs, accessorising the hijab has become less about following trends and more about creating a look that feels authentic.
Whether it’s a gleaming brooch, a minimalist pin or a cool cap that keeps everything in place, the hijab is more than a head covering – it’s an expression of personal style and confidence.
