Gaya Magazine April 2017 - Hijab & Modest Fashion for today's Muslim woman

April 2017

ethereal BEAUTY

MFA

BOUTIQUE

REVOLUTION LONDON & SINGAPORE MODEST FASHION WEEK

April 2017

Contents Cover Story

Fashion  

 

Ethereal Beauty A Modest Fashion Revolution: London Modest Fashion Week 2017 Singapore Modest Fashion Weekend 2017 The Abaya Evolution

Beauty 

Going Bare Face

Opinion 

It’s Not Easy Being First, But It Sure Is Worth It

Living 

Hidden Stash

Food  

Vegetable Frittata Cinnamon-Orange French Toast

Health 

Maintaining Your Crowning Glory

Gadget 

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine or content may be reproduced or used without the written permission of the publisher: C.A. Editorial Consultants. All information contained in this magazine is for information only, and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. The views, ideas, comments, and opinions expressed in this publication are solely of the writers, interviewees, press agencies, and manufacturers and do not represent the views of the editor or the publisher. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies or losses incurred. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit material to us, you automatically grant C.A. Editorial Consultants a license to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world.

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TEAMG AYA Our Writers

Co-founder & CEO Editor-in-chief Juliana Iskandar juliana@gayamagazine.com

Country Editor Australia Mastura Koelmeyer

Country Editor Bangladesh Mumtahana Elahi

Beauty Editor Naira Ghanem

Aateka Samara Amal El Gharbi Ameena M Shagari Ana Maria Aneesa Anu Shukla Asma Toujani Assil Taha Ayesha Khan Aylim Duran Azrina Naimuddin Bushra Amjad Hakeemah Cummings Haleemah Dandarawi Hanisah Maskon Hanna Begum Hajar Masri Hira Ali Hasna B Idil Mohamed Ali Iqra Arif Lamaa Husseini Lamya Ayad Layla Rodrigues Lipa Hussain Madiha Ahmed Mahnoor Malik Malikah Ebrahim Marwa Samara Mahvash Rehman

Nada Alzalloum Nadia Ali Nafisa Bakkar Naseema Miah Nawal Boukir Nouhailah Rahma Talwar Regine Maryam Reham Khan Roda Abdi Rym Shamas Sabera Hassanally Goulam Safira Adam Sajeda Sheikh Saleema Shah Salma Shalaby Sana Mahmood Sanae Chakrouni Sara Dekkiche Sarah Ghanem Shazia Javed Hassam Sheema Sherry Sheikha Haroon Shuhada Alauddin Siddika Jaffer Siti Nur Habibah Stoori Khan Tayeba Abdur-Rahman Unaizah Toffar Zoya Khan

Designer Jessalynne Woo

Editorial Assistant Atikah Z

Marketing & Distribution Byte.ME Pte. Ltd.

join our team of writers.

magazine@gayamagazine.com

Hello, you...

S

alam. And welcome to another issue!

Ok that sounds too formal for my liking.

I like to keep this very casual, as you know and I always look forward to talking to you here. I know this isn’t considered talking per se, but this is as close as I’m going to get.

Anyways...I’m super psyched this month.

April looks set to be an exciting month! Why? Well we’ve seen the likes of London, Toyko, and Istanbul, taking on the modest fashion phenomenon, right? Well, this month it’s officially Singapore’s turn. We’re so excited to be attending and covering the first-ever Singapore Modest Fashion Weekend. Stay tuned to our Social Media for live updates. *selfish plug* It’s about time we are taking this on and I can’t wait to witness our talented local designers take to the runway. Insya’Allah this is going to lead to bigger and better things.

Which leads me to my concluding thoughts.

No matter how difficult or impossible things may seem, never give up. And if you’re the first one to start a movement or get an idea going, fear will set it but trust me, it’s worth it.

Just take a page from our wrier Tayeba AbdurRahman who wrote an opinion piece in this issue. Being the first means not having an rules to follow and that can be a good and bad thing but if you have the determination, patience and above all faith, insya’Allah, you won’t be disappointed.

love & peace...

Juliana Iskandar

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Fashion

ethereal BEAUTY

Written by Mastura Koelmeyer Photos by Premillume Photography

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MFA Boutique is a label producing feminine crafted garments perfect for the everyday woman.

Launched just a year ago, MFA has already grown extravagantly from the day the label commenced.

Their signature bell sleeves, ruffles and layers emit exuberant artistic style and sophistication.

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As well as producing garments with that extra jazz, MFA also produces understated garments perfect for every occasion. Their smart cuts formed their Ready-to-Wear Spring/ Summer 2017 Collection that debuted on the runway of Malaysia Fashion Week 2016. Their journey in a small amount of time truly sings success for their brand.

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Geographically distanced from global markets whilst located in Malaysia, MFA still does an incredible job considerably.

I was very lucky to meet designer and founder of the label Fitrah Ahmad at Kuala Lumpur Modest Fashion Week 2016 last December.

Watching her creations down the runway made me realise her designs are equivalent to Ellery in the modest fashion world. With the thrills, frills and ruffles, I knew I had to quiz her on her label’s success.

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How do you find inspiration?

For me inspiration is everywhere. I am a very passionate and driven person.

I find inspiration when I talk to my customers, what they want, what they like, how do we improve and such.

From there I develop new designs.

Between mainstream high fashion designers, how do find your niche in the modest fashion industry?

I would say, our niche is Modest ReadyTo-Wear. My passion in designing is more to the RTW line. Previously I did MFA Spring/Summer 2017 during Malaysia Fashion Week and KL Modest Fashion Week.

Everything was RTW, and the buyers were able to immediately purchase the designs after the show. I noticed that Tommy Hilfiger had that same concept during the recent New York Fashion Week with the release of his RTW TOMMYxGIGI. Buyers could easily purchase the designs after the show.

It's a new trend and very exciting.

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What made you pursue your passion for fashion?

Well ever since I was young, my reading materials were my mom's fashion magazines! I just love the pretty clothes.

It's in my soul. That's why I chose fashion. Fashion is all about expressing your imagination, feelings and inspirations to the world.

I hear your previous professional background was marketing, has this helped with your new career?

Yes it has. I’m not just a designer, I basically am running my own fashion brand as well. For me to move forward and to stand among other designers, definitely my marketing background has helped me a lot.

Are there any similarities between your previous career and being a designer?

Marketing and fashion are both arts.

Fashion is an art where you express your ideas. Marketing is an art of negotiating and persuading people. Both are of which are interconnected.

What do you love most about being a fashion designer?

Runway of course! But then also when the customers love the design, the feeling is more satisfying.

What do you find most challenging in this industry?

This industry is an easy entry market and competition is tough. You need to spend a lot time on branding and you definitely need your own unique marketing style.

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Following the ever popular trend of bell sleeved tops and ruffled trims, MFA is on point for their fashion forward customers. Injecting a bit of drama into each outfit is no secret that the style crowd loves to do and what better way than a statement sleeve.

Hailing a taxi wearing one of their tops is now an ethereal photo opp.

Should you ever need a go-to outfit that is suitable for your day-to-day errand runs, be sure to find an outfit suitable for your wear at MFA Boutique.

For more on MFA Boutique, tap the icons below.

Images by Premillume Photography Make Up by Suzanah Soffian Hair & Make Up Artist Model & Creative Director - Mastura Koelmeyer

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Fashion

There was an unmistakable air of excitement amongst spectators snapping up seats alongside the runway.

The pure diversity of London Modest Fashion Week was about to take the global media by storm.

Written by Anu Shukla 12

Toufah Photo by Nimz Channa

T

he first UK event of its kind - LMFW took place in February at the Saatchi Gallery. And by coinciding with the occidental London Fashion Week - its very presence made a powerful statement in itself.

A tall glamorous woman with long flowing locks was busy managing the commotion as people flocked into the gallery for the runway show on a Saturday afternoon. Women in hijabs gave clear-cut instructions to teams buzzing from the adrenalin of organising the event.

The place whirred with lights, cameras, music, action and a healthy dose of organised chaos just before each show.

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This was the making of a modest fashion revolution. With photographers positioned at the far end of the runway and the audience seated with anticipation, the first models stepped out to a resounding applause.

The vibe was electric, the message, profound. This was no ordinary fashion show. It dared to be different with its platform for empowered women of all faiths and quest to inspire new female design talents to step up to the plate.

Its message seemed clear: modest fashion is not just Muslim fashion when multi-faith women adorn the veil too.

It was a defining theme to inspire tolerance and acceptance, unity through diversity, and to choose love over fear.

Strong, bold, sassy designs crossed continents and unearthed new tribes.

It was a trip into a multiverse of cultural parallels and a glimpse into a whole new world of modest fashion in all its glorious colours.

Modest fashion is the road less traveled.

And on this journey of discovery, every designer had a story to tell.

So the response was phenomenal. But no one had expected it. Two days and 300 punters later, LMFW had raised over ÂŁ10,000 for a number of charities.

It had racked up support from over 250 startups. Its 60 designers from Egypt, Malaysia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, Gibraltar, the UAE and the UK were splashed across the world’s press.

Everyone from Al Jazeera to Press TV to RT and the BBC were there. Even the Daily Mail published a decent report.

Globally valued at $484 billion, modest fashion has plenty of clout. It is reportedly the fastest growing consumer market in the world and at events like this, investors have clocked the potential of tapping in.

LMFW was conceived by Haute Elan hailed the Net-a-Porter of the modest fashion world. At its helm is former lawyer and investment banker Romanna Bint-Abubaker.

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Syomir Izwa Gupta.

Photo by Nimz Channa

Iila Boutique.

Photo by Nimz Channa

Toufah.

Photo by Burco Demirbag

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The 34-year old spotted a gap in the market four years ago when she noticed an influx of business fashion startups.

“There’s a very real need for modest fashion,” she said, “women have to trawl for hours across sites like ASOS to find something suitable, so I wanted to make it easier for them to find the brands they wanted.”

Fizzy Woo. Photo by Nimz Channa

At the same time, Romanna says the best way to support designers and fashion startups within a maturing market is to provide them with an opportunity to reach it - “so what better place to do so than in London - the fashion capital of the world?”

Romanna says Haute Elan chose to focus on women in fashion because they are the ones who are designing the clothes they can’t find in the stores they seek out. As a result, the event has anchored itself as a platform where female fashion designers can meet potential investors. And thanks to a collective pot, it’s also supporting emerging talent with everything from free office space to a spot on the catwalk.

Mimaya.

Photo by Nimz Channa

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Born and bred in London, Romanna’s family originated from Northern India five generations ago before they moved to Kenya. “Our culture is Islamic, and we are also very much part of British culture too, so it forms who we are,” she says.

Modapp.

Photo by Nimz Channa

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Romanna confirmed it was hardly a coincidence that LMFW had been timed to take place during London Fashion Week. “It was very deliberately planned,” she says, “and in doing so, we made a massive statement. It was to say - we’re as big as. Some said it was even like a punch in the face to LFW, which said: ‘Hey, we don’t need you, we’ve got our own.’ “So you see, it’s because mainstream fashion still does not quite understand the sheer size and power of the Muslim market, let alone of the wider modest fashion market.

But for Romanna, LMFW is more about doing the math and bridging a very real market gap than it is about trying too hard about making a political statement.

But maybe this is because it doesn't even have to try; because simply being out there, as media coverage has vouched, is enough of a statement in itself.

However, she agrees events like LMFW have the power to diffuse stereotypes - distinctively in a climate of rising Islamophobia where women have been targeted for donning the hijab or burkha.

“There is nowhere in London you can walk down the street and not see a woman wearing a hijab. It’s just not possible.

Modest fashion is a normality for millions of women so the more women in hijabs on the catwalks, the greater tolerance and acceptance there will be.” ~ Romanna Bint-Abubaker “For instance, the British Fashion Council have still not acknowledged LMFW, despite the fact there were over a thousand pieces of published press about us in four or five days; despite the fact there was more people attending than any LFW show.

It was fully packed, everybody around the world was talking about it, from India to France to the UAE.” 18

At the same time, she is very clear about ‘normalising’ but not ‘glamourising’ modest fashion on catwalks to generate tolerance.

“Our goal is not to glamourise the hijab per se as this may assert we are reobjectifying women, but in a different way - which we are not - so it’s not a word I would use. Rather, our goal is to demonstrate how women can dress modestly and still be elegant.”

Ummiriaz.

Photo by Nimz Channa

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She added: “There is nowhere in London you can walk down the street and not see a woman wearing a hijab. It’s just not possible. Modest fashion is a normality for millions of women so the more women in hijabs on the catwalks, the greater tolerance and acceptance there will be.”

Evident at the show were the multi-faith teams who worked behind the scenes.

“There were Jewish, Christian, Hindu and Sikh women who volunteered with us because they wanted to be part of it.

So the idea is to empower women of all faiths by uniting them through the realm of modest fashion - which is effectively the facilitating tool for that.”

It was this powerful surge of unified female energy which seemed to have made the event such a success - and the media response to it has been testament to that.

However LMFW has also been at the brunt of criticism from opposing sides of the spectrum says event project manager Narjice Basran: on the one hand, from conservative Muslims for not being modest enough - and on the other, from right wing media labeling it a ‘hijab show’ for Muslim women. Romanna added: “We didn’t do a fashion week for just Muslim women. It was for women of all faiths, so why should I accept criticism of it not being for everyone?

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Modapp.

Photo by Burco Demirbag

Toufah.

Photo by Burco Demirbag

“Secondly, we are not complying with sharia rules. This is because we provide options for women who make their own decisions on what suits their faith of choice - whatever that may be.”

“The reality is we are providing different choices for women: just like there are options for bikinis, there are options for modest fashion.”

Weathering the storm, Romanna says the biggest challenge was losing a big chunk of her team in the run up to the event.

“There were a lot of naysayers waiting for us to fall, but we made it happen. So considering the size of my team, many people were very shocked that we did it.

But now we’ve also rebuilt our human resources by acquiring the brand Sakura Malaysia, who have been amazing.”

“So ultimately, the message is for all women to support each other, forget their differences and celebrate the fact we have more in common than we do in difference. This is the unity LMFW represents - and this is the real purpose of the event.”

Romanna Bint-Abubaker, Founder of Haute-Elan

She added: “We’re always talking about Muslims fighting each other, so for once, we can say that here in London, we have managed for both Shi’a and Sunni Muslims to come together, alongside women of all other faiths, in a really positive way.

THE WRITER: ANU SHUKLA Anu Shukla is a multi-media news reporter, freelance journalist and documentary film researcher. From music, art and culture, to refugees, homelessness and workers’ rights: she navigates the dynamics of different realities. Creative and curious, she enjoys bringing art to the world and is available for collaborations and future projects.

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Fashion

SINGAPORE’S LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL MODEST FASHION COMMUNITY ANTICIPATES A WEEKEND OF FASHION, BEAUTY, AND INSPIRATION

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Designers, models, sponsors, partners of SMFW. Photo by July Photograhpy

ith planned appearances by international tastemakers and a designer line-up boasting respected names from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Singapore Modest Fashion Weekend (SMFW) 2017 has positioned itself as one of the biggest events to look forward to this year.

W

At the official press conference on 3rd April 2017, Dian Rasid-Heng, the founder of RoseValley and SMFW, announced the full programme for the event, which will take place from 14th to 16th April 2017, at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands.

The full designer line-up has been revealed, featuring over 50 of the best and budding brands in the region. They are Putri Lana, Owl by Nora Danish, Aeesha, Karimah A Design, Pearlista, 23

NurSyaf Hijab, Moosse, Tudungku, Tudung Abu Dhabi, Inlove by TNS, Raffiey Nasir, Mimpikita, Rico Rinaldi, One-Ra by Dynas Mokhtar, Nanarayyan, Rain, Rosita by Rosita Hussin, Fiziwoo, Lynda Rahim, Nurita Harith, Syomirizwa Gupta, Sazzy Falak, Mozaic, No Skin Attached, Anza, OZEL, Ayra Safiyyah, Ria Miranda, Scha x Awal, Lana Nordin, Naelofar Hijab, Mona J Boutique, Adrianna Yariqa, Halyaa, Fiza O, Mode Clothier, Maysixteen, Elda Store, Namazahra, Alia Anggun, Butik Heffa, Glamz Culture, NZ by Nanazuhaina, Turkish Cloth, Lil Ummahati, Sulastri Hasshim, Lully Selb, Pure the Label, RZ Designs, Lulu Alhadad, Darla & Flyn, Sweetrose Couture, Beta Azee, Ziana Zain, Mona J Boutique and ATP

by Ariati.

Dian Rasid-Heng addressing the media conference.

Photo by July Photograhpy

Models walking the runway are Surya Rahmanty, Ameerah Binte Abdullah, Meena Bennett, Ketryn C, Maria, Bano Izabella, Sim Melissa, Bacsain Karina, Irayori, Denisenko Irina, Iva Jones, Nurul Sabrina, Siti Nadiah, Siti Noor Sabrina, Fahimah, Shahirah, Roslin Misdar, Muhammad Syakir, Muhammad Zakir, Terrence Parbo, Leoneil Ralph, and Mohamed Arif.

Between runway shows, guests will be treated to performances by Amira Othman, Ayu Oiam, Aisyah Aziz, Awi Rafael, Altimet, Ernie Zakri, Sarah Aqilah, Nora Danish, Syamel, Sufi Rashid and W.A.R.I.S. An exclusive Networking High Tea for Social 24

Influencers and Brand Owners has also been planned for Friday, 14th April 2017 at 3pm. Local and international influencers will gather to discuss Modesty and Fashion - the main topic of the session - and how influencers can assist brand owners in promoting their brands.

Local influencers who will be part of SMFW 2017 include Dalillah Ismail (@dalillahismail), Tiq Zulkifli (@automatiqhigh), Nabihah Hailani (@nbhha), Nur Fatin Atiqah (@nurfatiin), Seri Nadhirah (@ponderwonder), Eeqa (@eeqamariposa), Ashikin Hamidon (@ashyclair) and many more.

SMFW models Photo by July Photograhpy

Overseas influencers will also be making their way down to the event, namely Omaya Zein (@omayazein) from the United States of America, Imane Asry(@fashionwithfaith) from Stockholm, Sweden, Zahra Rose Alazaibi (@zahrarosea) from London and Hasna B (@HasnaHijabStyle) from France.

Dian Rasid-Heng announced Le Gold as the Gold Sponsor and Official Jewellery Partner, iCommerce Asia as the Official Logistics Partner, Pearlista as the Official Hair Salon, and Mediacorp as the co-organiser and SMFW's Official Media Partner.

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She also thanked the rest of the sponsors for their major contributions to SMFW 2017. To view the full list of sponsors, visit www.smfw.sg/sponsors-partners.

Admission to the Shopping Piazza is free. Runway shows’ General Admission Early Bird tickets are priced at SGD6 each, while walk-in tickets are SGD18 each. Tickets can be purchased at www.galactix.asia. For more details, tap the icons below.

Fashion

THE EVOLUTION The simple black abaya has changed with the times and have taken a whole new look...

Written by Ameena M Shagari

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The Abaya is a cultural and religious symbol in the Arab world. It was originally made in black with the purpose of covering a woman's body and shape. However, the evolution of Abaya fashion has changed some of these motives.

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Today, Abayas are introduced in different colours other than just black and also in different styles and fabrics but all serve for the same purpose which is to cover. Abayas are worn with a head scarf (sheila) to complete the modest look. The perfect way to style an Abaya is to pair it with a mini bag.

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The piece I’m wearing is from a Nigerian brand which I styled with a peach bag and shoes to compliment the colour of the Abaya. I wore all white inside to match the beautiful embellishments on the Abaya. I love that the Abaya is very simple yet sophisticated so it can be worn for any occasion from a coffee date with friends to a fashion show. Another way to style this Abaya is to wear it with a white sheila or a white bag and shoes.

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My obsession for Abayas started at a very young age.

Wearing it made me feel very comfortable and confident anytime I was feeling insecure. It boosted my creativity as I started to picture different styles in my head and bringing them to reality. I was then motivated and inspired to launch my own Abaya brand which I’ve named Le Voile by Larusha.

THE WRITER : AMEENA M SHAGARI My name is Ameena M Shagari, a young Nigerian female with a strong passion for fashion. I am also a fashion blogger and a designer. My brand speaks of me in volumes. It celebrates me and my creativity. I enjoy writing, photography and exploring different restaurants. CEO of levoilebylarusha.

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Beauty

GOING BARE FACE Getting up and diving into a full makeup routine every morning can be tiring after a while. Even if you’re a makeup lover, putting on a full face of makeup each day can get to you.

And somedays you just want to go bare face but leaving the house to run errands without makeup can feel like unchartered waters for those of us who are so used to wearing a full face of makeup each day.

So what do you do when you don’t want to do it all?

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Replace the Foundation Instead of foundation, try a tinted sunscreen. You’re heading out anyways so sun protection is important. The La Roche-Posay Tinted Ultra Light Sunscreen is lightweight and has a matte finish. It protects and nourishes your skin and since it’s tinted, you can toss aside the foundation.

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A DUST OF EYESHADOW Forget the smoky-eye look and all that lot. Just add a dust of neutral or light eyeshadow on the crease of the lids. This will help brighten your eyes.

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PILE ON THE MASCARA Ok, maybe not pile on, but put on an extra amount. Mascara helps to open up your eyes so that you won’t look like you just rolled out of bed.

The objective here is to look presentable without a full face of makeup. The last thing you want is to bump into a friend telling you that you look tired.

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THE FINAL TOUCH Now for the finishing touch - lip gloss. Save the matte lipstick for when you’re heading out with the girls. A simple pink or neutral lip gloss is what you want for this nomakeup look. It gives you that tinge of colour and a healthy glow. And voila! You’re done. If you want to add some blush or shimmer powder, go right ahead.

But with these simple (and in some cases, cheap) products, you’re ready to head out the door.

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Opinion

it’s not easy being but it sure is worth it...

Written by Tayeba Abdur-Rahman

I

t’s not easy being first. The pioneer, the visionary, the one to take that step into the unknown.

Sometimes it’s with a completely original idea. Sometimes it’s with an idea that’s been percolating in the collective consciousness, but no-one has stepped forward and claimed it. Often when you’re the first, most of the trial and error comes from your efforts.

People watch from the sidelines and wait. And wait. And comment. And wait.

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Being the first can sometimes be unforgiving, but having the passion to drive the project forward and serve?

Alhamdulilah for the opportunity.

Not everyone can be first of course, so this is my request: Do support the ones that try.

Inshallah with the right intention and love from you, that scary new project turns into something that uplifts us all, as connected empowered muslimahs.

When Juliana Iskandar launched GAYA Magazine in December 2013, I’m guessing she didn’t know what to expect or how it would be received; but she took the challenge and created something beautiful out of it.

Month after month of inspirational designs, insider info on forward-thinking modest fashion designers and soothing words of shared wisdom for the soul.

It’s a fashion magazine, just for women like us! Alhamdulilah.

buy what I would make. When I did some research and spoke to other modest fashion brand owners, I realised that I was not alone. So I thought, “What if there was a way to create a powerhouse of brands targeting young professional Muslimahs? And what if, instead of us each trying to figure out the business of fashion, alone, that we come together to upskill ourselves in branding, marketing, leveraging our strengths and sharing resources, so we get more results and ultimately serve more clients?”

“

Often when you’re the first, most of the trial and error comes from your efforts. People watch from the sidelines and wait. And wait.

And comment. And wait.

”

When I launched Singapore Modest Fashion Collective (SMFC) in November 2016, I didn’t know what to expect or how it would be received. So why launch? Because I just felt that it was the right time for a platform that brings us muslimahs together, under the banner of modest fashion.

Honestly, SMFC was borne out of frustration. I wanted to design a modest clothing line of my own, but I had no idea how to start, and no audience to 37

SMFC is all about action and getting into momentum, in the right direction.

I work with modest fashion brand owners to align their mindset for success, help them design their business so it’s optimised and less stressful to run and enable them to shine through influencer and social media marketing and collaborative projects and get known. It’s not like a book club - it's more an operating network that has shared resources (e.g. business education, marketing, access to

influencers and events). My focus is on giving modest fashion brand owners what they need to thrive and grow their business, faster, more effectively and with less pain and cost.

We all wear them, we all have our styles and preferences and we all need to buy them from somewhere, so here’s to supporting the muslimah-owned brands that are designing clothes just for us.

SMFC is there to be the voice for the muslimah small business player, so that their business doesn’t die when a big multi-national company decides to jump on the modest fashion bandwagon.

To have a collective punch and a collective voice, shared resources and greater impact, knowing that we are striving forward together. Clothes.

The next big first for Singapore’s modest fashion scene? The launch of Singapore Modest Fashion Weekend hosted by Rosevalley and MediaCorp on 14-16 April 2017. This launch is super exciting because it’s the showcasing of some of Singapore’s brightest modest fashion influencers and design talents like Lulu Alhadad and Lully Selb in the prestigious Marina Bay Sands Venue.

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There will be some of the hottest regional designers in attendance too like Syomirizwa Gupta and Lynda Rahim.

I love that all of this is coming to our doorstep, right here in Singapore.

So here’s to supporting the platforms that put the spotlight on muslimahowned brands that are designing clothes just for us.

My adopted home may be small in size but it is big in heart, soul and passion.

There is more to being modest than just covering up one's arms and legs - There is a modesty in how you treat others, how you speak to others and how you carry yourself in public and in private and the modest fashion scene in Singapore is really stepping up to take its rightful place as an innovative hub.

It’s not easy being first, but it sure is worth it. Alhamdulilah. *Photos from the launch of SMFC by Asyari Photography.

For more on Singapore Modest Fashion Collective and how to get involved, tap the icons below.

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Living

We can’t tell if the houses are getting smaller or we’re just accumulating more stuff. Either way, we all need more room. Sadly cupboard spaces are limited so we resort to getting ugly plastic boxes from the hardware store. But we aren’t going to compromise on esthetics, no way. So here are some nifty storage items that don’t just serve its purpose but look good doing it...

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TEXTURED SOLID POUF OTTOMAN FROM OVERSTOCK.COM. STASH YOUR MAGAZINES INSIDE, PLACE A TRAY ON TOP AND VOILA! A COFFEE TABLE!

WHITE JEWELRY CHEVAL MIRROR FROM OVERSTOCK.COM. HIDE ACCESORIES AND MAKEUP BEHIND THE FULL LENGTH MIRROR.

STACKED VINTAGE LUGGAGE SET FROM OVERSTOCK.COM. PLACE NEXT TO THE BED AS A COOL NIGHTSTAND.

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PHOTOFRAMES ARE SO PASSÉ.

SHOWCASE YOUR PHOTOS, ARTWORK, POSTCARDS WITH THIS CLIPBOARD FROM OVERSTOCK.COM

WOOD RUSH GRASS STORAGE BOX FROM OVERSTOCK.COM. LARGE ENOUGH TO STORE TOWELS, SHEETS. AND DOUBLES UP AS A SEAT.

BIRDROCK HOME COTTON LAUNDRY TOTE BAG WITH ROPE HANDLES.

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DOREL LIVING ESPRESSO 3‐PIECE STORAGE TRUNK SET. PLACED IN THE LIVINGROOM, THEY DOUBLE UP AS A COFFEE TABLE AND 2 SIDE TABLES! NEAT!

FOR THE CAR, A TRUNK ORGANISER AND COOLER! GREAT FOR GROCERY SHOPPING!

RECYCLED PAPER 'SPIRAL' BOX. STORE LOOSE COINS AND KEYS OUT OF SIGHT.

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Food

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Food

VEGETABLE FRITTATA

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Ingredients 8 eggs 1/4 cup whole milk 1 cup chopped fresh seasonal vegetables 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1/2 teaspoon olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup shredded cheese

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Method

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

In a mixing bowl, whish egg, milk, salt and pepper.



Heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.



Add vegetables and sauté until just done.



Reduce heat and add the egg mixture, gently stirring until it just starts to thicken.



Top with cheese and place in the oven to broil until the top begins to brown and fluff up, about 3-4 minutes.



Using a spatula, gently run along the edges of the frittata and slide onto a plate.



Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Food

CINNAMON ORANGE FRENCH TOAST 48

Ingredients 6 eggs 1/2 cup orange juice 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 cup milk 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange peel 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 slices day-old cinnamonraisin bread

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Method 

Heat oven to 190 degree Celsius.



Beat eggs, orange juice, sugar, milk, orange peel, vanilla and nutmeg in a medium bowl until blended.



Place bread in 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan, overlapping as needed.



Pour egg mixture over bread and let stand, turning once until mixture is absorbed.



Place bread in single layer on 2 well-greased baking sheets.



Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning over once until brown on both sides and no visible liquid egg remains.

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Health

MAINTAINING YOUR

crowning GLORY Written by Stoori Khan

B

eautiful hair is the core of a charismatic personality as it is said: “Invest in your hair, as it is the crown you never take off.” Therefore, special care should be taken to keep the hair healthy, long and strong.

And for hijabis, just because our hair is covered doesn’t mean it’s not in our routine. Maintaining healthy hair is just as important.

Here are the few tips which should be followed to keep the hair healthy and to prevent it from extra damage.

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Start from the inside by eating protein rich foods. Protein in your daily diet helps the body to produce keratin which is fundamental to hair structure. Ever seen the word keratin on a bottle of shampoo?

Plenty of times, I’m sure. Well, our body can produce this naturally if we maintain a healthy intake of protein in our diet. These can come from fish such as salmon, halibut and tuna, green leafy vegetables, and nuts.

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Oil your hair half an hour before washing to maintain the moisture of the hair and scalp. Use oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Argan oil is pretty good too.

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Always wash your hair with a good protein shampoo to promote hair growth and volume. Do not shampoo more than 2-3 times a week. Then finish your shower with a cool rinse to help seal the cuticle and strengthen the hair.

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Dry your hair with a quick dry towel instead of drying it with a hair dryer as the use of heating tools can cause serious damage to the hair in the long run.

Use a wide tooth comb or finger comb to untangle when hair is dry. Don’t tug and pull as this will stress your poor cuticles.

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And head to the salon frequently to get your hair trimmed. This reduces the occurrence of split ends.

Plus it’s a good excuse to pamper yourself...

ABOUT THE WRITER: STOORI KHAN Stoori Khan is a Doctor of Pharmacy graduate and an author/poetess.

You can find her work at: fb.com/stoori.thepoetess

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Gadget

SAMSUNG

GALAXY S8 DOES IT MAKE THE CUT?

I

s Samsung making a comeback?

From the fiasco of the last launch, Samsung went into full drive to redeem its status. From their television ads that subtly say “we’re sorry”, to the ostrich that wanted to fly, Samsung’s Marketing team has done one hell of a job.

Can you blame us? Yes yes...it’s not the same range as the Note but we’re still iffy.

And then along comes their new shiny toy - the Galaxy S8. Truth be told, we wrote a raving review of their last big bang (pun intended) - the Note 7 - so we’re kind of apprehensive about doing this one.

So let’s dive in...The Samsung Galaxy S8 is set to launch later this month, but reviews have been rather positive so far.

Everyone seems to be raving about its infinite display.

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Nonetheless, the geeks in us are hard to appease. Curiosity is getting the better of us. And deep down inside, we just want a win for Samsung.

Have to admit, that display does look amazing. It’s massive 5.8-inch screen wraps its way around most of the phone.

Yes, you heard us. It wraps! Which means, it’s a curved edge. Seeing how the S7 Edge was so well-received, they decided to do it once more.

The screen is also HDR-enabled which means if you’re a Netflix subscriber, you’ll be able to get an amazing viewing experience all on your mobile. Suddenly we’re reminded of a simpler time when all you could do on your mobile was call, text and play the Snake game. If you don’t remember that, then boy are we old.

Back to Samsung. Because of its large screen, there isn’t room for the home button. So it’s gone! No, it’s not gone.

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It’s just moved. In place of the home button on the front, there is now a pressure-sensitive button at the bottom of the phone.

The fingerprint scanner is now on the back of the phone next to the camera.

Speaking of the camera, that feature is more important to us, and we’re guessing, you too.

After all, we need a good camera to capture our #OOTDs, selfies and all our flat-lays, right? Come on. You can’t deny this.

So according to some reviews, the camera is fantastic and bla bla bla.

But we’re going to give it to you real.

Apparently it hasn’t upgraded much from the previous Galaxy S7.

However, the 12MP sensor on the back is still one of the best around according to Tech Radar. It offers speedy snaps and great performance in low light. YEY! Sadly our iPhone doesn’t seem to cut it in low light situations.

Samsung also decided to keep the same impressive range of modes and options from the clever auto mode which manages to select a great photo every time, to the professional mode which offers the ability to tweak the settings and shoot in raw too.

The front camera has been upgraded to 8MP and they’ve added in a fun new effects button which give you augmented reality makeovers to entertain you and your friends. Erm...a rip off from Snapchat? Quite possible.

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Sadly the battery life was not on the list of upgrades. The same battery as last year - a 3000mAh battery - add to that the increase in pixels for that huge screen, it looks like you’re going to have to invest in a heavy duty power bank. But they, there’s a full suite of wireless charging capability on this baby, which means if there’s a wireless charging point somewhere, chances are you can juice up your S8.

We can’t say for certain if this is a good phone to invest in. So we’re going to give it some time before reaching a verdict. In the meantime, tap on the icons below to learn more.

Always with you wherever you go.

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