Thematic analysis of hijab fashion from Muslim clothing retailers perspective

Purpose The desire to find a new look of expressing the Muslim identity in society has led to a renewal of Muslim women's interest in fashion. This allows fashion players to make trendy clothing and expand their business to meet the rising needs of Muslim women. Thus, this study aims to explore the concept of hijab fashion from the perspective of Islamic clothing retailers in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Data for this study were collected qualitatively using semi-structured interviews and analysed using a deductive thematic analysis. Findings This exploratory study describes hijab fashion as a representation of clothing for ideal contemporary Muslim women that enhances the beauty in Islamic outfits from the perspective of Islamic clothing retailers. Hijab fashion has emerged as a modern form of the modest dress code in accordance with Islamic guidelines representing the hijaber identity. It is not just a veil to cover the awrah but also represents the impression of fashionableness and modernity, reflecting the self-image, trendy style and personality representing the true ideal Muslim women, who are known as Muslimah. Research limitations/implications The sample and findings are based exclusively on the perception of retailers directly involved in Malaysia's Islamic fashion business. Practical implications The findings from this study benefit the fashion retailers, Islamic fashion industry players and policymakers by highlighting the importance of providing appropriate products and services concerning the growth of Muslim consumer market and their spending behaviour. Originality/value The findings offer a new perspective on the nature of the phenomenon of hijaber fashion as a symbol of the modern Muslim woman from the viewpoint of Islamic fashion practitioners.