The Modest Dresser is a monthly series in whichBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK junior branded content editor and modest dresser Humaa Hussain shares the pieces that have caught her eye, along with styling tips to help you create looks that prove that modest doesn't have to equal boring.
After dipping my toes into summer fashion last month, I'm officially in the deep end now. The weather in London has been nothing short of glorious lately, and it’s pushed me to fully embrace the warmer season with my wardrobe. For me, that means leaning into lighter, airier pieces that still maintain the coverage I love. Think breezy maxi dresses, fluid wide-leg trousers, and sheer layers that add dimension without the weight. Summer styling within a modest framework might sound like a bit of a puzzle, but it's one I've come to enjoy solving—and this month, I've been finding some really satisfying answers.
One of the trickier aspects of modest dressing in warmer weather is layering. In colder months, layering is almost second nature: knitwear over shirts, coats over dresses, boots under hems. But when the temperatures rise, piling on fabrics can feel suffocating—unless you're doing it strategically. The trick is choosing the right fabrics: cotton, linen, silk blends—anything that breathes. I've been reaching for oversized linen shirts that can be thrown over slip dresses or worn open with trousers and a tank layered underneath. Light blazers in softly structured silhouettes are also in rotation—ideal for adding polish without trapping heat. I'm loving shirts in silk crepe or mulberry blends too, which feel luxe and look put-together, even with minimal effort.
This month, I'm particularly excited to wear a few key pieces I've been eyeing. There's a long-line linen-blend dress from COS that's the definition of quiet summer elegance, and a fringed kaftan from Taller Marmo that I'm saving for Eid ul-Adha. Speaking of which—Eid is just around the corner. Falling next week, Eid ul-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is a special moment of reflection, gratitude and celebration in the Islamic calendar. It's a time when we gather with loved ones, share meals, and often dress in our finest. I'm planning to wear something that feels elevated but still effortless—perhaps a tailored set in a jewel tone, or a beautifully cut maxi with a dramatic sleeve and subtle shimmer. I always love mixing traditional silhouettes with pieces that feel current, and Eid offers the perfect excuse to dress up and feel joyful in what I'm wearing.
Naturally, I've already been doing a little shopping (or at least some very focused browsing). Below are some of the pieces I've bookmarked for summer days and upcoming festivities. There's a mix of brands I always turn to, like Reformation and Ganni, alongside high-street finds that punch above their price tag. Whether you're looking for breathable base layers or Eid-ready elegance, I think you'll find something to love here.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces This Month:
This soft-structured dress walks the line between relaxed and refined, making it ideal for anything from lunch al fresco to a late-summer evening out.
A crisp striped shirt always feels put-together; this one has enough structure to layer over wide-leg trousers.
Dreamy and floaty in the best way, this dress is perfect for days when you want maximum elegance with minimal effort.
Clean, classic, and incredibly versatile, this midi skirt is just waiting to be styled with a black tee, gold jewellery and strappy flats.
I love the subtle drama of this silhouette; the fringed sleeves and drape details make it feel special enough for Eid.
Ganni always gets playful femininity right, and this tie detail blouse brings just the right amount of texture to a modest cut.
I keep coming back to these: wide-legged, breathable and with just enough tailoring to dress up or down.
A relaxed staple for off-duty days.
If you’re after something that feels polished without being fussy—this is it.
An investment, yes—but the cut and fabric are exceptional. These elevate even the simplest blouse.
I've stocked up on these—they're feather-light and layer beautifully without feeling bulky.
The easiest throw-on piece when you want some movement and modesty without adding heat.
I wear this with floaty dresses and slides for a bit of balance; it adds just enough structure.
A beautifully understated piece that feels like a nod to '90s minimalism, perfect tucked into trousers.
Subtle and elegant, these culottes are the definition of quiet luxury—and exactly what I want to wear for Eid brunch with a flowy blouse and some kitten heels.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces From Last Month:
Not your average balloo skirt—this one feels properly grown-up.
This structured vest is doing all the heavy lifting—wear it alone or layer it over a poplin shirt when temps drop.
Quiet luxury energy in a denim skirt form.
The colour that's slowly converting me to Team Pastel—pairs so well with cream, navy, and stone tones.
This one's giving Parisian picnic energy, and I'm absolutely here for it. Bonus: it works just as well with sandals or trainers.
One of those pieces that makes even a plain tee look intentional. These go with everything.
A romantic number that doesn't feel overly sweet—especially good with a boxy knit or oversized blazer.
If you want a minimal, comfy sandal that still feels elevated, A.Emery are tough to beat.
A high-street gem that looks and feels designer. Easy to dress up or down depending on the day.
Palazzo jeans are super flattering and so easy to style.
These are the shoes I reach for when I want to feel "done."
