Beginners Guide: The Essentials for Starting Your Hijab Journey

Congratulations on embarking on your hijab journey! Wearing the hijab is so much more than simply covering your hair—it’s a powerful reflection of your faith and identity as a Muslim woman. Taking this step is monumental, as it boldly declares your devotion and commitment to Allah through your outward appearance.

I still remember the moment I felt it in my heart—it was time to wear the hijab. Back then, I started with just an under cap and a hoodie because I didn’t have a full modest wardrobe, and I was nervous about how others would react. My journey toward modesty was gradual, evolving step by step. Now, I confidently wear khimars and jilbabs wherever I go, feeling at peace with this beautiful expression of faith. 

As I celebrate my full year anniversary of wearing the hijab, I’ve reflected on some experiences I went through and want to share advice I wish I had. Whether you’ve just begun wearing hijab or are contemplating taking this step, remember: your hijab doesn’t have to be perfect from the beginning. It’s a process! And while you might not fall in love with the adjustments immediately, the more you wear the hijab, the more you’ll be reminded of Allah—and the more you’ll fall in love with His wisdom.

Disclaimer

Modesty and hijab requirements can vary between different schools of thought. It’s always best to consult with your local scholar for personalized guidance. If you’re a revert, be kind to yourself as you navigate the different rulings and traditions. Modesty is not just about clothing—it’s reflected in your speech, mannerisms, and overall behavior. Ultimately, only Allah knows your effort and intentions.

The Essentials You Will Need

Since you are in the beginning phases of your hijab journey, know that you do not need an extensive wardrobe filled with abayas or all the latest hijab trends. It’s natural to want to overhaul your closet, but if you’re on a budget like I was, this might not be feasible right away. Personally, one of the things that motivated me to wear the hijab—beyond Allah’s command—was the desire to pray anytime, anywhere. You can’t pray without a headscarf, and being a hijabi makes that easier. This is where you start.

Black Chiffon – The Classic Headscarf

The first thing you should invest in is a black chiffon head scarf paired with a matching black under cap. The under cap provides extra coverage and helps keep the scarf in place, especially since chiffon can be slightly see-through and slippery. Chiffon is a timeless fabric because it’s incredibly versatile—you can dress it up for formal occasions or dress it down for more casual outings. While it’s tempting to add every color to your collection, a black hijab is a beginner’s best friend. Not only does it pair effortlessly with any outfit, but it also exudes elegance and is simple to style. Whether you’re wearing it with a dress, a blouse, or a simple sweater, the black chiffon hijab will quickly become your go-to piece. Its classic nature and practicality make it a staple that will never go out of style.

Jersey Materials for Fitness or Casual Days

When it comes to active days or casual outings, jersey material hijabs are an excellent choice. Consider a jersey, pre-wrapped hijab, which is perfect for workouts or busy days on the go. This fabric is breathable, absorbs sweat, and stays securely in place, so you won’t have to worry about adjusting your hijab while you’re exercising. Choosing a color that compliments your skin tone makes it even more versatile. What I love about pre-wrapped jersey hijabs is how hassle-free they are—just slip it over your head and you’re ready to go! There’s no need to fuss with long ends or worry about it slipping out of place. I wear my jersey hijabs not just during my fitness routine but also on casual days because of how incredibly soft and comfortable they are. Whether you’re heading to the gym or running errands, a jersey hijab offers both practicality and comfort while keeping you stylish.

Hijab Magnets or Pins

Hijab magnets are truly one of the best inventions for us ladies. They’re incredibly practical and make styling your hijab so much easier. These magnets are strong enough to hold thick fabrics in place, without the worry of them slipping or coming undone. One of the biggest advantages is that they won’t prick your fingers like traditional pins, making them much safer and more comfortable to use. When you’re learning different hijab styles to suit your head shape, hijab magnets are a great tool to have on hand. That said, pins still have their place, especially for hijab styles that require extra hold, such as more formal looks that use fabrics like chiffon. Pins are easy to find at local craft stores and are perfect for adding that extra security to your hijab, especially for events or long wear. Whether you prefer magnets or pins, both are essential tools for creating a secure and stylish hijab look.

Tops that are Double Your Size

Here’s a fantastic hack that I wish I knew sooner and just have to share with you—when buying tops, consider going up two sizes from your usual fit. For example, if you typically wear a size Small in shirts or sweaters, try a size Large; if you wear a Medium, opt for an Extra Large. You might be wondering why, but here’s the trick: going up in size often doesn’t significantly alter the length of the sleeves, but it gives you much-needed extra room around your torso and backside. This extra length and width will not only make your outfit more comfortable but also provide coverage, especially in the chest and hip areas. It’s perfect for achieving a modest yet relaxed fit without feeling restricted. Whether you’re shopping for t-shirts, dress shirts, sweaters, or jackets, sizing up allows you to move freely while still maintaining a modest silhouette. This is a simple yet effective way to ensure your clothes fit comfortably and provide the coverage you desire.

Long Sleeve Undershirts

Long sleeve undershirts and under caps are essential undergarments that play a key role in helping you feel secure and confident in your modest wardrobe. When you’re wearing very loose garments, these pieces provide an added layer of security. For instance, if your looser garments tend to ride up, the undershirt ensures that you still have full coverage. As you’re still building up your wardrobe, the long sleeve undershirt can easily be paired with cardigans or sweaters for a simple, layered look. I recommend opting for neutral colors like black, gray, brown, or navy, as these shades will seamlessly compliment any outfit you put together. You don’t need to have every color, but choosing a few that match your usual style will make it easier to mix and match with your existing wardrobe. These undergarments are essential for creating a comfortable foundation for your outfits.

Dark to Medium Wash Oversized Jeans

Right now, baggy jeans are making a huge comeback, and you’ll find them in nearly every popular retail store. There are various styles of baggy jeans available, such as mom jeans, boyfriend jeans, and wide-leg jeans, all of which offer the perfect combination of comfort and modesty. The relaxed, loose fit of these jeans allows them to cover your silhouette, making them an ideal modern modest piece. What’s great about baggy jeans is their versatility—you can dress them down for a casual look or style them up with accessories or blouses for a more refined outfit. Dark to medium washes are especially practical since they pair well with almost anything, giving you endless styling options. The best part? You don’t need to size up! You can buy your regular size, and these jeans will naturally provide the relaxed, baggy fit you’re looking for. Whether you’re lounging at home or out with friends, dark to medium wash oversized jeans are a must-have for creating effortless and stylish outfits.

Crew Socks

Crew socks have become an essential for me. There were so many times when I’d sit down, and my pants or skirts would ride up slightly, revealing my ankles when wearing no-show socks, which left me feeling exposed. Crew socks solve this problem by offering extra coverage for your ankles, giving you peace of mind as you go about your day. They’re particularly helpful as you build your wardrobe, especially when wearing dresses, skirts, or pants that move around a lot. Crew socks keep you covered even when you’re sitting, standing, or moving. I’ve found that once you start wearing crew socks, they become an essential go-to.

As you embark on your hijab journey, remember that building a wardrobe doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Starting with a few essential pieces, like a classic black chiffon hijab and simple long sleeve undershirts for layering, can help you ease into a modest wardrobe without feeling overwhelmed. Focus on practicality and comfort. With these essentials, you’ll be able to maintain both modesty and style, while gradually adding more pieces to suit your personal taste. Starting with these foundational pieces will help you create a wardrobe that compliments your Islam.

Working with What You Have

I’m so glad you’re here, and I want to reassure you that it’s okay to start with what you have. When starting to wear hijab, it’s common to feel overwhelmed or pressured into buying an entirely new closet. Often, you can make the most of what you already own or find affordable and sustainable ways to build your closet. By working with what you already have, embracing secondhand options, and learning to repurpose items creatively, you can start wearing hijab without breaking the bank. Modesty is about intention and effort, and every small step counts. 

Donations

Many masjids offer donated hijabs and clothing for women. I recommend checking with your local masjid to see if they have any headscarves or women’s clothing available for donation. This can help you build a modest wardrobe as you explore your style. You can also reach out to sisters in the masjid group chats to see if they have any pieces they are willing to donate to support you in your modesty transition. Another great option is coordinating with friends who share a similar style or size for clothing swaps. This not only allows you to try new pieces without spending money but also offers a wonderful opportunity to bond and share fashion tips.

Layer Up

If you have jeans that are a little tight, don’t worry—just layer an oversized sweater or a long cardigan on top. You can also pair shorter dresses with leggings or skinny jeans to cover your legs. For extra coverage, try wearing long-sleeve turtlenecks or bodysuits under sleeveless or strapless tops and dresses. Adding a lightweight kimono or cardigan over fitted tops can create a modest yet chic look. Every new hijabi goes through the process of gradually transitioning from their old wardrobe. Even if you’re wearing longer pieces over tighter clothing, it’s still a step in the right direction. Be patient with yourself and allow time for the transition.

Alter Your Clothes

You can easily modify your existing clothes to align with your modesty goals. For instance, if you have short skirts or dresses that you’d like to make longer, consider sewing on a matching or complementary fabric at the hem to extend their length. This simple alteration can make a big difference in creating a more modest look while keeping your favorite pieces in rotation. If you have tops or dresses with low necklines, you can close them up by adding a fabric insert to cover plunging areas. For clothes that feel too tight, a visit to a tailor can work wonders. Tailors can let out seams or add fabric panels to make your fitted items more comfortable and loose-fitting, allowing you to continue wearing them in a way that meets your standard. These small adjustments give you the flexibility to wear what you already own with confidence.

Be Creative with Your Wardrobe

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to breathe new life into your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to mix and match pieces you wouldn’t normally pair together. For example, a casual top can be elevated when styled with a flowy maxi skirt. You can also get creative with layering by experimenting with unexpected combinations, such as wearing a sleeveless maxi dress over a button-up shirt. This can add depth and dimension to your outfit while still maintaining modesty. Another great styling tip is to use neutral or solid-colored staples as a base for your outfits, which allows you to pair them with bolder or patterned hijabs. By thinking outside the box, you can turn even the simplest pieces into something fresh and fashionable.

It’s important to remember that modesty is about intention and effort, not perfection. By making the most of your current pieces, embracing secondhand options, altering clothes for a better fit, and experimenting with layering and styling, you can gradually build a wardrobe that reflects your modesty goals without feeling the pressure to start from scratch. Every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to Allah, inshaAllah. 

Building Confidence as a New Hijabi

For many women, the hardest part of wearing the hijab isn’t the physical act of putting it on—it’s dealing with the external reactions from others and the internal doubts that can creep in. When I first started wearing the hijab, I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was my first time stepping out of the house with the scarf on, and I was immediately aware of the attention it drew. I recall a conversation with a friend who told me, “If you can’t pray in it, don’t wear it.” That moment stuck with me because it shifted my perspective. I realized that wearing the hijab wasn’t just a physical act; it was a spiritual choice that connected me to my faith in a deeper way. And while the journey of wearing the hijab is personal, there are ways to build confidence along the way.

Remember Your Intention

One of the most important things to remember as you navigate this journey is the intention behind your choice. Remembering why you chose to wear the hijab in the first place is a powerful tool in maintaining your confidence. For me, it was about submitting to Allah and remembering the ultimate destination. Keeping that intention clear in my heart helped me push through moments of uncertainty and allowed me to feel stronger in my decision. When you wear the hijab for Allah, it becomes a reflection of your iman.

Seek Support from Other Hijabis

Another way to build confidence is by seeking support from other women who wear the hijab. Surrounding yourself with sisters who can share their own experiences and offer guidance can be incredibly empowering. Online communities and local mosques often provide spaces where hijabis can connect, share advice, and support one another. I’ve found that sharing stories with other women who understand what I’m going through can be uplifting, and it helps me remember that I’m not alone in this journey. Whether it’s in person or through social media, connecting with others who share similar experiences can help you feel more confident and less isolated.

Respond to Questions with Grace

Sometimes, people or family will ask questions or make comments out of curiosity, and that can feel uncomfortable at first. It’s important to prepare a few simple, gracious responses that allow you to stand firm in your choice without feeling pressured. You don’t owe anyone an explanation about your decision to wear the hijab. In fact, responding with kindness and patience can not only educate others but also help you feel more confident in the face of external opinions. Remember, this journey is about you and your connection with Allah, and how others perceive you doesn’t define your worth.

Turn to Allah for Strength

Finally, take time to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Whether it’s wearing your hijab for a full day or sharing salaams with a stranger, these milestones are worth recognizing. It’s important to honor each step of your journey, as it brings you closer to the version of yourself you’re striving to become. And when moments of doubt arise, turn to Allah for strength and guidance. Make du’a, and ask Him for confidence and ease in your journey. Allah is always listening, and trusting in Him will give you the strength to continue. 

The Essence of Hijab: A Personal Reflection

For me, hijab is more than just a dress code. It’s a gift from Allah and a constant reminder of our true purpose in life. Hijab is not about restriction—it’s about liberation from a world that often tries to define women by their looks. While society’s beauty standards are constantly shifting, wearing the hijab is a powerful statement: “I am defined by my character, not by appearances, and my true worth lies in how Allah sees me.” Each time I wear it, I’m making a conscious choice to express strength through my iman. It’s a choice I will never regret, and I hope you find the same sense of conviction as you continue on your journey.