Finding the Perfect Modest Outfit for Your Christmas Work Do or New Years Eve Party
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As the end of the year approaches, the festive invitations start rolling in. Whether it’s the annual office Christmas party, New Year's Eve celebrations, or holiday dinners the pressure to look stylish while staying true to your modest fashion values can be real. This is exactly what I, founder of RIALine experienced every year. I get it, navigating mainstream fashion when you're a modest dresser is like trying to find a needle in a sequin filled haystack. But don't worry I've got you covered (literally).
The Modesty Struggle is Real, But You’re Not Alone
Mainstream fashion can be a bit of a battlefield for modest dressers, especially during the party season. Certainly, everything in the stores seems to be strapless, backless, or with plunging necklines not exactly the easiest of styles to wear for those of us who prefer a bit of coverage. And while cultural attire is always a beautiful and classic option (I’m thinking of beautiful sequinned lehengas here), sometimes you want to mix it up with something trendy and mainstream. It's also natural to want to fit in with your colleagues or friends without appearing too different at the work party or New Year's bash, and without having to sacrifice your values. The balance can feel tricky but it’s not impossible, you just need a little more time to search or depend on brands like mine that focus on modern modest fashion. Alternatively, here’s how you can look modest and glamorous amongst you peers:
1. Statement Sleeves Are Your New BFF
Sleeves aren't just functional they can make a serious fashion statement too. Opt for puffy sleeves, balloon styles, or anything with some dramatic flair tipped, the good thing is that they are also said to be big for 2025. They are already all over the runways and the High Street giving modest wearers a chic edge without compromising on coverage. You can even try pairing a voluminous sleeved top with a sleek maxi skirt or wide leg trousers for an easy and elegant polished look. RIALine offers some slinky satin maxi dresses with balloon sleeves which can easily be rolled up thanks to the elasticated sleeves.
2. Maxi Dresses: Effortless Glamour
Maxi dresses are anything but boring and are an essential item for most modest women. Look for one in a rich fabric like satin, velvet or sparkly to give real festive lux vibes. Sequins and embellishments can elevate the look with ease. If the dress has no sleeves you can add a matching jacket or blazer to make it work. Alternatively check out RIALine’s modest sparkly dresses that were made for the party season and special occasions. All the dresses feature a high neck with no leg exposure, your search for a modest going out dress ends here.
3. Layer, Layer, Layer
Let's talk layering, one of the best ways to stay modest while pulling off any look is layering as you are probably already accustomed to. That chic blazer or a structured duster coat aka abaya can add instant sophistication and coverage to an outfit that otherwise might be a bit too revealing. Don't be afraid to mix textures, finding a suitable undergarment such as a shirt that can be worn under a strappy dress or strapless top will help keep your modesty and still elevate your unique style.
RIAline works hard to bridge the gap between modest and mainstream fashion as I understand the difficulties in merging our wardrobes with the influences we see around us and our modest limitations. As a growing brand there is lots to come within this area.
4. The Power Of Accessories
When your outfit is all about sleek and simplicity you have to let your accessories do the talking. Statement earrings, bold metallic belts, or even a stylish clutch bag can give your outfit that festive pop without compromising on modesty. Go for golds and jewel tones to really embrace the holiday spirit. The key is to strike a balance so do not be afraid to sparkle. Luxurious satin materials with sparkly accessories and a winter knit or blazer just oozes class and party ready.
5. Keep your makeup on point
Makeup for a modest outfit can be as glamorous or natural as you like. This is where you can really have fun and let your creativity shine depending on your mood and your outfit. Makeup for a sparkly dress can include a shimmery or glittery halo eye look or even a heavy winged look, pair it with a nude or bold lip and you are setting your own tone for the night. Keep the skin nice and glowy or full-on matte to pack a punch whatever you are comfortable with but it should compliment your outfit always. Go have fun!
Modest Fashion Movement
It can sometimes feel like the fashion world isn't catering for us modest women but remember modest dressers have been leading the change in creating style that's both fashionable and respectful of their personal boundaries for years. This normalised behaviour from us is now finally starting to cause waves in the fashion world more than ever before. From the rise of high fashion modest influences to mainstream brands slowly dipping their toes into modest collections, there's a clear trend shift. However, it is important to have mainstream brands that understand you and your modest needs as everyone's modest needs are different, something that I feel mainstream brands still haven't quite grasped. It takes a modest person to understand the needs of modesty in the real world and how it affects everyday lives of a huge population who want more from brands now.
Let's face it you don't want to spend every occasion explaining your outfit choice anymore or why you don’t show your legs, yes even at Christmas. You just want to be able to fit in and look great and enjoy yourself just like everyone else at the party. Finding this middle ground between modesty and mainstream trends can be difficult and a skill that develops over time, which is why RIALine was established.
Key Outfit Ideas for Christmas and New Years Eve from RIALine:
This dress has endless options in how to wear it, it will literally keep you going all year long. Layer it with the high neck maxi slip dress that comes as included top it with an abaya, wear it on top of trousers and a vest, or even with a blazer. Just one warning be ready to have all eyes on you as this dress is a real eye catcher and ultimately comes alive in the nighttime.
This dress is not for the faint hearted it’s dipped head to toe in metallic gold, you were born to shine in this dress. Cut in a fishtail design with a high neck, high back, no splits and with sleeves what more can you ask from a modest going out dress.
For those that prefer a jumpsuit over a dress why not try our gold jumpsuit. With trending wide leg trousers made from chiffon, don't worry they are fully lined and an elasticated waist it's made for comfort and twirling. The top is adorned with gold sequins in a shirt style again fully lined for your comfort, just add your favourite sparkly heels and hijab and you are ready for party.
For those who don't mind showing their arms because we know there are varying degrees to modesty. Why not try our one shoulder lace dress, it is high neck and stretchy made from the softest jersey material and even has some ruching around your waist to give you some shape and comfort. The added bonus is that it come with removable feather cuffs that will instantly bring some glamour to your long black dress. If you just need a long black dress why not add it with a blazer to give you a professional modest party look.
If you want a dress that takes you from summer to party season, then these are the dresses you should be investing in. The shimmery satin screams instant lux in dreamy colours, it’s a maxi dress with sleeves cut in this season’s A line design which suits most modest needs. Pair with your favourite strappy shoes and clutch bag to give total classy girl vibes. These dresses also work well with sweaters and blazers for that satin skirt and top look.
Mixing Cultural and Mainstream?
Don't be afraid to mix your cultural pieces with mainstream trends. That embroidered jacket from your heritage wardrobe? Pair it with a dress or wide leg trousers. All that intricately patterned hijab? It can be the statement piece that pulls your whole look together. It's all about blending your personal style with what's trending to create something truly unique.
At the end of the day you don't need to sacrifice your modesty to look fabulous. With a bit of creativity, you can find (or create) the perfect festive outfit that's both in line with your values and completely on trend. After all, modest women like you are changing the fashion game one chic covered up look at a time.
So go ahead RSVP to all your invites with confidence in your modest and fashionable outfit this festive season and let us know of your showstopping look by tagging us in on your pics - we can't wait to see how you slay the sparkly season in style!
Be You. Be unapologetically modest, with all the attitude but no exposure.
Ria x
Founder of RIALine
Socials: @rialineofficial #rialined