Modest evening dresses, with long sleeves, high necklines and longer hemlines, are elegant, versatile and suitable for weddings, Eid, galas and family celebrations. Because more of the body is covered, the styling focuses on a few key areas: your face, hands, waist and feet.
Shoes
- Pointed pumps: peek out from under a maxi hem and look polished with every style.
- Block heels and platforms: comfortable for long celebrations and great with heavy fabrics.
- Embellished flats: ideal for events where you will be on your feet all day.
- Do: choose your shoes before hemming so the dress just grazes the floor.
Makeup
With a covered silhouette, the face becomes the focus. Go for glowing skin, defined brows and one highlight: a softly smoked eye in bronze or plum, or a statement lip in rose, berry or red. If you wear a hijab, pick a lip or eyeshadow that complements the scarf colour.
Jewellery for long sleeves and high necks
A necklace can get lost on a high neckline, so think about earrings (if visible), rings and bracelets. A cocktail ring or a sleek cuff worn over the sleeve looks very elegant. A long pendant over a plain high neck can also work. For more, see our jewellery by neckline guide.
Bag and belt
A structured clutch or a box bag adds polish. A belt is a modest dresser's best friend: a slim metallic or satin belt defines the waist of a loose kaftan-style or A-line dress without making it tight.
Hijab colours and fabrics
For those who wear one, the hijab is part of the outfit. Some easy guidelines:
- Tonal: the same shade as the dress for a long, elegant line.
- Neutral: nude, champagne, grey or ivory with patterned or colourful dresses.
- Contrast: a jewel tone with a black or neutral dress.
- Fabrics: chiffon and satin for evening, jersey for comfort and grip. Avoid heavy embellished scarves with a heavily decorated dress.
Layering
Layering can make almost any dress modest. A long sleeve top or slip under a sleeveless dress, a longline blazer or a sheer kimono over a gown, and a matching wide-leg trouser under a split all add coverage while staying stylish.
Complete looks
- Wedding: a long-sleeve satin maxi, gold block heels, a pearl cuff and a soft rose lip.
- Eid: an embellished A-line dress, a slim metallic belt and a tonal chiffon hijab. See our Eid outfit ideas.
- Gala: a high-neck gown, pointed pumps, a cocktail ring and a bronze smoky eye.
Explore our modest dresses and read our modest evening dresses guide.
