Modest elegance: a field where local talent shines
Abayas, traditional and modest wear are among the most in-demand fields in the Kingdom. Learn how to showcase each piece professionally while fully respecting your boundaries.
Why is this field growing?
Saudi design houses and online stores specialising in abayas and modest wear are thriving, launching new collections for Ramadan, Eid, special occasions and seasons. Every collection needs catalogue photos, short social clips and sometimes live shows.
It's a field that values elegance, poise and an understanding of fabric more than any particular measurement.
The garment is the star
In abaya shoots, your job is to show the cut, embroidery, sleeve details and how the fabric drapes. That needs poses that open up the garment's lines rather than hiding them: an arm held slightly away from the body, upright posture and calm movement.
Poses that suit an abaya
Try these poses in practice before the shoot, and ask the photographer which details the brand wants to highlight.
- A slow turn to show the abaya's flare and movement.
- Holding the sleeve edge to show the cuff embroidery.
- A step forward to give the fabric natural movement.
- A back view when the embroidery is on the back.
- A calm seated pose to show the drape.
Hijab and shawl: the details that matter
A neat hijab is as much part of the look as the garment itself. Agree on the colour and style with the client beforehand, keep pins hidden and edges even. It helps to bring two or three neutral options with you.
Thobe and shemagh: classic Saudi menswear
Traditional menswear is in strong demand for Eid, National Day, fragrance and formal campaigns. The thobe should be carefully pressed and well fitted, the shemagh styled to suit the campaign, and a bisht may be requested for formal looks.
- Practise different ways of styling the shemagh.
- Groom your beard and hair the day before.
- Keep an upright stance and calm, confident movement.
Fittings and caring for garments
Accurate measurements on your profile save designers a lot of time. At the fitting, tell the team honestly if a piece is uncomfortable or doesn't fit; it's much easier to fix before the shoot.
Treat the garments with even more care than if they were yours: avoid perfume and food while wearing them, and use a face cover when changing to keep make-up off the fabric.
Your boundaries are clear and respected
You decide what suits you. Ask for the looks in writing before you agree, and check there's a private changing room and, if you prefer, a stylist of the same gender. If the brief changes on the day in a way you're not comfortable with, you can politely decline.
Know your rights and safety toolsIn-depth guides for every stage
- How to become a model The core steps from setting your goal to your first paid job.
- A beginner's guide to Saudi Arabia How the local market works, where the work is and what clients expect.
- A portfolio that wins clients Which photos you need, how many, and how to order them.
- Posing for photos Simple drills for natural, comfortable poses on camera.
- Commercial modeling Ads, catalogues and events: the widest, most varied way into the work.
- Creators and brand work How to turn your presence on TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram into paid work.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the brand and the collection, and the brief usually spells out the look. Only apply to what matches your personal choice.
Some live shows prefer certain heights, but most catalogue and content work welcomes a range, because brands want their customers to see themselves in the photos.
Yes, plenty, especially around Eid, National Day, and fragrance and menswear fabric campaigns.
Usually the brand provides the featured pieces, and you may be asked to bring basics like shoes, a hijab or a plain dress to wear under the abaya. Ask before the day.
Your elegance deserves the right stage
Create your free profile, add your measurements and photos in an abaya or thobe, and start applying to fashion castings.