I guess the statement is true. Many a times we have tried so hard just to conform to other views and trends while chucking ours in the trash can.
Somali-American Halima Aden is staying true to her identity and her lifestyle, chosing not to hide it or fake it no matter what industry says about it.
Normally for a model, we should be able to view a masterpiece from the designer without an hinderances on the body, in short, all should be from the designer and very little of somebody else’s work. But that has not stopped the model who loves her origins to insist on wearing her hijab (covering her hair and neck).
Read more on the story via Somali-American Model Halima Aden Makes Headlines After Rocking Her Hijab At Kanye West’s Fashion Show — Yaa Somuah
Photo Courtesy of Yeezy
What strikes me more is the fact that many people have lost their identity to conform to standards set by industry trend setters. Many have joined cults while others have remained silent on issues of religion and faith that would have largely contributed to their rise.
In the western world, a well dressed and good looking woman will mostly have a good hair do that compliments what she has on, having a hijab moves contrary to this notion.
“For Aden, being cast proved incredible both for the experience itself and the chance to see the famous family behind the label. “I had the opportunity to briefly meet Kanye and Kim at my fitting yesterday, so that was fun!” says Aden…. Though finding looks that reflect her standards of modesty can provide a momentary challenge, Aden has been heartened by the way in which stylists like Roitfeld have been willing to work with her. “Oftentimes, they have to put me in a few things before finding something that I know would be deemed appropriate.” She said to Vogue.
Aden has started a revolution of her own. She has managed to ‘found a way to respect both her values and her desire for creative expression’ (Vogue) and in turn has turned heads in doing so, a lesson which everyone who is in the entertainment industry is supposed to heed.
“My goal is to send a message to Muslim women and young women everywhere that it’s okay to break stereotypes and be yourself,” she says. “Always stay true to who you are—barriers can and will be broken!”