Covered-up dressing is a tool for playfulness, choice and creativity — not a hindrance to self-expression.

Fashion is always functioning as a statement. What you choose to put on your body, whether it’s intentional or not, sends a message to the outside world about who you are. But for women who adhere to modest fashion — a style often shrouded by reductive associations of restraint — these clothing connotations are more complicated. On the Cannes 2024 red carpet, Somali-born star Rawdah Mohamed is using her covered-up looks to push the conversation forward.

Last year, the model went viral after sporting Robert Wun’s scorched bride couture creation on the Cannes 2023 red carpet. The macabre moment was made even more memorable with her hijab peaking through the burnt veil. And this year, with the help of stylist Amar Faiz, her risk-taking has reached new heights. Throughout the celeb-crowded film festival, Mohamed has stood out in two exquisite ensembles that complement her conservative garb.

First, she donned a customized version of Cheney Chan’s aqua-coloured gown from the label’s Spring 2024 collection. Featuring a gravity-defying structural wave