21 best modest dresses, according to a Muslim fashion writer
Modest dresses have always formed a core part of my wardrobe, throughout changes in seasons and trends. Being Muslim, my sense of style has always been shaped by my faith – and it's something I take pride in, always looking out for easy-to-wear pieces.
It's worth stating that ‘modesty’ is subjective, and everyone interprets it differently. Dressing modestly and comfortably whilst also being able to enjoy the latest trends is easier now than it has been in the past, and there’s a huge amount of options online (I’ve even spotted modest clothing making an appearance on the catwalks in recent years).
Elie Saab’s SS25 show saw floor grazing gowns, adorned with capes, whilst full length maxi skirts paired with blouses made an appearance on the Max Mara and Moschino catwalks. When it comes to what I’ll be attempting to recreate this summer, I’m trying to be braver and bolder with colours and prints and know on the catwalk full length outfits in bold styles really stood out – as seen at the Versace show.
On the high street, I’m obsessed with Uniqlo's floral print midi-dress which is both flattering and comfortable, whilst the & Other Stories Flounced Maxi Dress has me hoping for an occasion special enough to wear it.
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I'm around 5 foot 7 inches and often find midi dresses fall a little short on me, so if I don’t opt for a maxi dress I'll usually wear leggings or footless tights underneath them (lest I have a Marilyn Monroe moment on the London Underground). I’m open to short sleeves and square necklines, as you'll see below, but will not wear sleeveless or anything too low-cut or backless without a tank top or long-sleeve top underneath. I really value comfort, but don’t want to compromise on modesty for it.
As I previously said, the best modest summer dresses are down to everyone's personal preferences and beliefs, but from summer wedding guest dresses and floaty floral dresses to long sleeve dresses and white dresses, there's sure to be at least one of the trending silhouettes that catch your eye.
For even more from Sidra Imtiaz, be sure to follow her on Instagram @sidraimtiaz.
Shop the modest dresses I'm wearing on rotation below.
Broderie Anglaise Tie-Belt Dress
Broderie has a way of making every outfit feel ultra feminine, perfect for my attempts to embrace my soft girl era. This full length cream number is one of the most perfect white dresses I’ve seen this season, with it’s balloon sleeves and gold detail. Whilst it does come with a short slip, I’d advise layering it with something longer if you’re worried about the holes in the broderie showing skin. As always, H&M is inclusive with their plus size offering going up to 4XL.
- Sizes available: XXS - 4XL.
- Material: 100% Cotton.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
A totally effortless modest staple, this t-shirt dress is loose fitting and comfortable, with a crew neckline and puffed sleeves. It can be paired with slides for a beach vibe, or trainers for day to day, and comes in a range of colours from muted to bright.
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Material: 100% Cotton.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these Free People discount codes at checkout.
With it’s dramatic frilled sleeves and chiffon style tiered layers, this one had me feeling like Taylor Swift in her Speak Now era - if only the tour was this year. I can imagine this one being worn time and time again for engagements, weddings (perfect for a bridesmaid!), bridal showers and beyond. I did pair this with leggings just for an additional layer where the skirt was a little sheer.
- Sizes available: XS - L.
- Material: 100% Viscose.
Best Modest Bridesmaid Dresses
Leem Cape-Sleeve A-Line Woven Maxi Dress
I’m now at that age where I’m always on the lookout for modest wedding guest dresses as there’s always friends tying the knot. Modest fashion brand LEEM nails the brief with this relaxed fit a-line dress, adorned with cape sleeves similar to those seen on SS25 runways. I love the dusky pink colour too!
- Sizes available: S - XL.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these Selfridges discount codes at checkout.
ASOS DESIGN High Neck Satin Checkerboard Maxi Dress
Pistachio green is trending (it's not just butter yellow, folks), and this long-sleeve satin dress from ASOS is perfect as a modest wedding guest dress.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Volume Sleeve Dress (Short Sleeve, Print)
I love UNIQLO for their comfortable options and use of 100% cotton to create lightweight pieces that last. This new in fit-and-flare style had a shirred waist and elasticated cuffs, making it flattering on all body types. Bonus points because it comes with a separate slip - something that comes in super handy when considering modest dress.
- Sizes available: XXS - XL.
- Material: 100% Cotton.
I adore Sezane for the quality and cut of their pieces, and this merino wool dress is no exception. With a high collar and full length sleeves, the ribbed knit is fitted without being overly figure hugging, and can be dressed up with a heel, or worn more casually with a white trainer.
- Sizes available: XS - XXL.
- Material: 100% Merino Wool.
A good comfortable black dress is my staple year round, and whilst there are lots of knitted options in winter, it can surprisingly be difficult to find one that fits modest dressing requirements in the summer as more often than not, these will come with a side or back slit. This one from COS, however, is full length with a tie-detail - easy to throw on with minimal effort.
- Sizes available: 32 - 44.
- Material: 57% NAIA™ cellulose acetate, 43% Recycled polyester.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these COS discount codes at checkout.
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COLLUSION Oversized Wrap Maxi Smock Dress with Contrast Gingham Ties
This wrap maxi is adorned with gingham ties, differentiating it from another black dress in your wardrobe - something I know I’m guilty of. I love that the oversize fit is floaty and comfortable, and I think it would pair perfectly with a pair of Sambas.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Material: 100% Cotton.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
I’ve always adored Needle & Thread for their ability to create dresses that are modest without compromising on detail and this season’s new arrivals are no exception. Their signature detailing involves pleated ruffle tulle, shimmering sequins and frilled cuff sleeves. The skirt is fully lined and falls to ankle length. I speak from first hand experience when I say these dresses will have you stopped in the street and asked where they’re from.
- Sizes available: 4 - 24.
- Material: 100% Recycled Polyester.
Pink Printed Flossie Midi Dress
I’m a sucker for a vintage print maxi dress, and this one is milkmaid core perfection with it’s round frilled collar neck and puff sleeves. This is versatile enough to wear both to the beach or to the office (if you don’t work in a corporate environment, and require smart workwear!) and I think it’ll be a summer favourite.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Material: 100% Lenzing™ Ecovero™ Viscose.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these Nobody's Child discount codes at checkout.
Full length, full sleeve and a bold print? This is the dinner party dress of dreams, and I loved how the tailoring felt flattering without being overly fitted. The gauze fabric makes it lightweight and comfortable and the boat neck cut keeps the chest area modest.
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these Mango discount codes at checkout.
The Somerset Maxi Dress: Eyelet Edition
This iconic dress from Anthropologie has thousands of positive reviews, and it’s one of their bestsellers for good reason. The A-line silhouette and smocking detail create a soft, feminine silhouette, and I just think the delicate embroidery is beautiful. Bonus points for the pockets, of course!
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Material: 100% Cotton, 100% Modal Lining.
With it’s defined waist and casual button closure, I can see myself reaching for this year after year. I love the tie-detail belt on the back which allows you to cinch it in as far you as you want. It’s available in a few prints, but I personally adored the black.
- Sizes available: 32 - 44.
- Material: 85% Viscose, 15% Polyamide.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.
Finding a modest dress for bridal and baby showers, in a world of slinky strappy slips, can be tricky. This long sleeve maxi dress ticked all the boxes for me, with its full, tiered skirt. And modest girls rejoice, it isn’t backless. I adore the tiny floral print. My only caveat would be that it is sheer, so I would definitely pair with a full length slip dress underneath. I love that it’s made from deadstock fabric, making it a more sustainable option.
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Perfect for holidays and beachwear, I love this breezy dress from Boden. The azure blue brings to mind days by the ocean. The floaty mid length sleeves give maximum comfort that can still work as formal attire for a special occasion. For those who find the v-neck deep, pair with a tank top underneath.
- Sizes available: 4 - 22.
- Material: Outer 55% linen 45% cotton, Sleeve lining 100% cotton, Body 100% cotton.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these Boden discount codes at checkout.
ASOS DESIGN Curved Drape Detail Maxi Dress
If you're looking for one of the best spring dresses that still covers your body modestly, you've found one. It's currently in stock in all sizes. Run don't walk.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Dark Blue Denim Collared Zip Up Midi Dress
Every summer, we see the return of the timeless denim dress, and I love this midi one from Oliver Bonas. The classic dark blue boasts scalloped sleeve embroidery and a collared neckline. It is also likely to fall as a maxi on more petite girls, whereas I’d size up for extra length.
- Sizes available: 6 - 18.
- Material: 69% Lyocell, 31% Cotton.
Sister Jane Ruby Floral Brocade Maxi Dress
With it’s high neck, balloon sleeves and full lining, this dress has everything you need to make a statement without compromising on modesty. It can be dressed down with trainers for daytime, or dressed up with a mini heel for evening.
- Sizes available: 6 - 14.
- Material: 100% polyester; lining: 83% modal, 17% polyester.
This easy to wear dress is designed for you to pop over your head and be on your way. The raglan sleeves and loose fitting silhouette are flattering on all body types. The cotton gauze will keep you cool on a hot summer’s day.
- Sizes available: XXS - XXL.
- Material: 100% Organic Cotton.
Khaki Premium Short Sleeve T-Shirt Maxi Dress
I love a t-shirt dress for everyday wear, but they almost always come with slits. This one from River Island has a crew neckline and full maxi length. For those who need extra coverage on the arms, it pairs perfectly with blazers or leather jackets.
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Material: 48% Viscose, 46% Polyester, 6% Elastane.
Save when you shop for modest dresses with these River Island discount codes at checkout.
