Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (9)

I have never been on-trend as I have been on this post!

Photography: Pata Pic Kenya 

The term modest fashion can be interpreted in a number of different ways. However, it is typically used to describe clothing that conceals rather than accentuates the shape of the body.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (4)

The clothing can include hijabs and burqas, as well as tops, trousers, jackets, and dresses that feature a modest cut. While the decision to wear this type of clothing can be due to religious or cultural reasons, it can also be worn to attain a more modest aesthetic (e.g this post).

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The modest fashion movement has become prominent in the Kenyan fashion scene where fashion bloggers and designers offer examples of appropriate clothing that allows for self-expression without sacrificing one’s religious beliefs with the inclusion of long-sleeved dresses, high necklines, midi dresses, and maxi skirts.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (12)

This blog post is my rendition of the modest style with the incorporation of pleated skirts which is one of my favorite pieces to wear to work. Sometimes separates can seem like they’re more difficult to put together, but you can wear a pleated skirt with anything. I love to pair pleated skirts with everything from tees and moto jackets to sweaters, button-ups, and even off the shoulder tops.

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They’re also versatile enough to wear round. You can pair a pleated skirt with boots and a sweater during the colder months, and in the hot Nairobi days, I love the look with cute sandals. It’s also an easy piece to dress up or down.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (14)

Team a pleated skirt with a graphic tee and sneakers for a more casual vibe, or wear a pleated skirt with a button-up and pumps for a classic work look.

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This right here is next level fashion genius — and a cute going out outfit, when you want to show up in something a bit unexpected.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (13)

How many of us dreamed of being an astronaut at some point when we were younger? NASA fits into the mold where it not only has broad appeal, but there is almost nothing to dislike about it. Just for this reason, I am obsessed with this shirt. In order to snatch my waist, I tucked it in and paired it with this is a lovely belt: well made, with a quality Western-style buckle, definitely a keeper.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (10)

For eye-wear, I went for the pointy V-shape cat-eye frames sunglasses that have become another favorite of mine. It makes everyone’s face look wider, so if you’re self-conscious about having a wide face (which some people are!) then they might not be for you. But in general, they’re probably the most approachable, universally flattering sunglasses you could own.

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Plaid jackets are my new obsession, they double as a really trendy top when you button it up! When shopping for one, make sure the blazer is just a little oversized, you’re going to want to get your hands on one you can wear to any occasion. I am borrowing the plaid menswear button-up from Sherlock Holmes and making it my own. Mark my words — a plaid blazer is the “it” fashion item of the season

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (3)

Outfit Details

Sunglasses: Kadenyi Pop Up

Jacket: Zara

Necklace: Forever 21

T-shirt: NASA

Belt: H&M, sold out but found one on Amazon

Skirt: Gifted

Bag: DKNY

Watch: Movement

Rings and Bangles: Maasai Market

Boots: Mango

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (5)

I am loving the modest fashion look within the industry because it’s also shone a light on the (obvious) facts that women of different shapes, faiths, colors, sizes, and backgrounds can be just as stylish and can be equally valuable customers.

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So why not skip the little black dress for your next evening out, and put together a fresh, fashionable outfit in a colorful pleated skirt and a matching top, or even better, a classic modest fashion look, with a long striped jacket or cardigan layered over top. Venturing out from your personal style to try other silhouettes and trends is how we evolve our personal style.

Kadenyi, Fashion blogger, black, african, model, natural hair, marley hair, red sunglasses green plaid skirt, NASA tshirt, black sock boots, plaid jacket. red bag, DKNY, Mango, red belt (8)

Thank you so much for reading this, and see you in the next one…

Stay stylish,

Kadenyi.