Hijabi Couture

You Don't Know Me

2011-01-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

Crazy thing is I did 7 poems that day and all of them went smooth. But this poem was the most important to me. I rehearsed this so flawlessly at home with my family. Got on film and ...psssstttt...what??? I lost my flow. Even though it wasn't my best performance, I hope you still feel me.

To add to your joy, watch this

2010-02-13T09:09:00.000-08:00

Gotta Love Youtube!

2010-01-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

My Prayer for Peace Poem

2009-12-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Bismillah

A fellow muslim designer just told me that this was up on Youtube. I didn't even know and I really appreciate the people who put it together. I hope you like as much as I do.

The Hoodie Jilbab!

2009-12-02T17:11:00.000-08:00

Bismillah

I have to thank Allah for the lovely ladies who modeled my clothes at the Atlanta Fashion Show. This model is wearing my hoodie jilbab - made of sweatshirt fabric and embroidered with sequins and orange thread. I love the comfort of this item. The color scheme for this was inspired by my very pious sister Maryam. I hope you love it as much as we do! Do you?

More Fashion Celebration

2009-11-15T14:13:00.001-08:00

Told you I was back! I have so much to share with you since I haven't blogged in a while. The models in this backstage picture are wearing The Off-White Fringe Maxi and The Black Zakkiyah Maxi. Complimenting their maxis are Hijabi Couture satin hijabs. Of course they are rocking their Hijabi Couture bags too! One of the ladies from the audience bought the Off-White Maxi to wear as her wedding dress. What a delight!!! Please tell me what you think about these designs from Hijabi Couture's latest line.

Hijabi Couture's Atlanta Fashion Show

2009-11-14T07:27:00.000-08:00

Hijabi Couture was featured in Atlanta's Fashion Celebration. Having been my first fashion show - I was surprisingly touched seeing all of the lovely models in our 2009 line. Honestly, it is amazing to draw a design and see it come to life like this. This model is called our Fatima Dress. The fabric is so soft and superb. It also features a hand of Fatima zipper closure that I designed and a coordinating undercap. The gorgeous model featured is also wearing a Hijabi Couture exclusive scarf, chosen for it's African design.
I'll be posting more photographs soon. I've got so much to update you on! Stay posted - I'm back!

Courage

2009-06-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

“Courage is the discovery that you may not win, and trying when you know you can lose.” - Tom Krause

We know we may lose, we may fail, we may cry, we may fall, feel sad and grieve. But, in spite of this we have to keep trying. The death of my father has had me face more tears and sadness than I ever imagined I would feel. I feel as if I am a new woman, half-orphan. Yet, in the midst of facing my tears and loss, feeling weak and vulnerable - I know it takes courage to feel. Life is filled with these paradoxes, for our amusement.

So, if you've been wondering what happened to your sister, friend, fashionista and fellow blogger - I have been hurting and healing and having the courage to keep it moving by opening a new store on 51 West 116th Street, Boutique 82 in New York City, to do some fashion shows (one in Atlanta and another in Philadelphia) and to remake the website - FINALLY!. So, please visit the new site: www.hijabicouture.com. But, more importantly, please keep my family in your dua'as. Please, ask Allah that we may have the courage to accept His will and to be pleased with it.

Courage

by Anne Sexton

It is in the small things we see it.

The child's first step,

as awesome as an earthquake.

The first time you rode a bike,

wallowing up the sidewalk.

The first spanking when your heart

went on a journey all alone.

When they called you crybaby

or poor or fatty or crazy

and made you into an alien,

you drank their acid

and concealed it.

Later,

if you faced the death of bombs and bullets

you did not do it with a banner,

you did it with only a hat to

comver your heart.

You did not fondle the weakness inside you

though it was there.

Your courage was a small coal

that you kept swallowing.

If your buddy saved you

and died himself in so doing,

then his courage was not courage,

it was love; love as simple as shaving soap.

Later,

if you have endured a great despair,

then you did it alone,

getting a transfusion from the fire,

picking the scabs off your heart,

then wringing it out like a sock.

Next, my kinsman, you powdered your sorrow,

you gave it a back rub

and then you covered it with a blanket

and after it had slept a while

it woke to the wings of the roses

and was transformed.

Later,

when you face old age and its natural conclusion

your courage will still be shown in the little ways,

each spring will be a sword you'll sharpen,

those you love will live in a fever of love,

and you'll bargain with the calendar

and at the last moment

when death opens the back door

you'll put on your carpet slippers

and stride out.

Black Is Beautiful!

2009-04-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

This is a lovely linen cover-up. It's modern and chic yet modest. Also available in white linen for $75.00 USD.

What do You Think of My Princess Jasmine Pants?

2009-04-07T16:04:00.000-07:00

I love some loose wide-legged pants! Don't you? So, I designed these loose pants to have an adjustable waist - they expand very wide over the hips and then button close around your waist to your present size. You can also wear these high or low waisted, depending on the look you want. The ankles have a matching closure and buttons; so that you can wear them hanging loose like the picture or tight like tradional harem pants. I made these pants out of the same the fabric as my safiyah, fringe and zakkiyah tunics. These are just samples at this point. Before I produce them in sizes, I want to know what you think. Please let me know, do you like this style too? If I produce these, they will cost $35.00. Do you think that is a fair price?

Pearl and Gold Fringe Dress

2009-04-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

I love this sooooo much. It is also available in black with silver and plum with lavender. Do you love it too?

For Ange Over at Hegab-Rehab

2009-04-04T16:07:00.001-07:00

I once put up a survey asking sister's what they need most for their Spring wardrobe's. Ange said she needs an abaya to run to the Supermarket and around town to do her errands in. I told her I knew just what she was talking about and that I was working on it! After designing and creating samples that had to be redone, I finally came up with the right colors and cut.
Finally, after lots of work, I introduce you to my all-new Sporty Diamond Jilbab. I hope that Ange will find what she needs and that my other sisters who haven't said so, see what they have always been dreaming of here! It's available in navy blue with light blue and off-white embroidery for $60.00 USD.
I'm making a very sporty hijab to go with it out of lycra. The hijab's pictures will be out soon, insh'Allah. This is one of my favorite items of clothing, honestly, I'm in love with this jilbab! I could wear it everyday since it's so comfortable. So, I will soon be introducing it in brown with burnt orange and off-white trim too. DO YOU LOVE IT TOO?

Royal Blue Sporty Hijabi

2009-04-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just love to be sporty and to do sports. This is what I recently wore when I went hiking. If you look closely, this top has gorgeous royal blue buttons that run down the side of this cross-over tunic, made of lycra. $50.00 USD for the set. A real bargain, very limited edition.

Blue Sapphire Tunic

2009-04-01T15:11:00.000-07:00

I love this beautiful sapphire blue on this black background. I have decided not to make the future models with the embroidery in the middle. I also made some nice loose-fitting drawstring pants like these in black, cinnamon and tan. They have pockets and are made of a nice soft fabric. Aside from the extra embroidery, the design is a go as far as I am concerned, what do you think?

For My Abaya Lovers

2009-04-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Black Diamond Abaya. Sewn of unique hand-made cloth from the Sahara Desert. Fully lined in a soft natural fiber fabric. Each cloth is hand-made and dyed and unique. Very slight variations exist in each model. Very limited edition.

In Memory of My Father

2009-04-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Inna Lilayhi wa inna lilahee raji30n. Without knowing that my father had passed, I drew out a sketch for my butterfly dress. I quickly finished it and loved it so that in the middle of my grief, it made me smile. There is something very angelic and peaceful about it. My father loved blue. Allah yarhamu.

Ruby Diamond Abaya

2009-03-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

I love this fabric. This fabric comes from the African Saharan Desert. Fully-lined in a very soft natural fiber fabric named fibran. It is made by hand and uniquely dyed. Very limited edition.

African Diamond Spring Collection

2009-03-25T13:38:00.000-07:00

BISMILLAH

Introducing: THE NEW AFRICAN DIAMOND COLLECTION LINE! This spring line was inspired by the African Continent. All of the fabrics used in this line were made here in Africa. They are light-weight and as soft as a feather. I love this print because it would go lovely with the orange pants I featured in this photograph or jeans. I know I'll be wearing it with my favorite brown leather wedges. I feel a polyvore set coming on! Modestly priced at $40.00 USD.

Here's a close-up of the elastic waist linen pants:

The linen pants are also modestly priced at $30.00. What do you think of the first picture of the Spring line?

Muslims Loving Christians

2009-03-05T06:44:00.000-08:00

Bismillah

My dear Sorority sister who just visited me is a great Christian. I love many Christians. In fact, my dear friend used to take me to her local church, by the Harvard campus, when we were in college. I have great memories of the church. I remember the Reverend was young and eloquent, an admirable family man, with a beautiful young wife and children.

During my college years, I would sit with my Sorority sisters and discuss religion at length. I love those women so much. I remember that they sincerely wanted me to be "saved", for my own benefit and I appreciate that to this day. But, I would ask: "How can I be saved from the hell-fire, simply by saying that I take Jesus Christ as my Savior? What if I say that and later commit terrible sins? Won't I merit the hell-fire by my actions, regardless of my testament?".

I simply didn't believe that you could attain salvation without goods deeds. There was always the issue of the trinity, large and looming above my reason - "How can God say He is One and man say He is One + One + One and this equals ONE?" This was illogical idolatry to me. Although I do not believe in everything that the Christians believe in, I believe many things that they believe in too. In fact, I believe in the love and sincerity that I have received from them to be an honorable testament of Christ's (alayhi salaam) example, one that muslims should follow too.

As Allah (the Arabic word for The One and Only God of the Muslims, Christians and Jews, not a separate "God") is Perfect and the Best of All Planners, I was blessed to have been invited to accompany my Sorority sister to Deminent with a Marrakchi friend of hers. I am absolutely blessed to have had the honor of going along. While we were driving there, the host said, you are going to see an amazing library when we arrive. I had no idea of how absolutely wonderful it would be.

Once in the house, our amazing hostess toured us around. The first room that she took us to, had a framed copy of the original letter that the Prophet Muhammed had written to the Christian King of Ethiopia. This was history coming alive for me! Here I was before an archive of great significance, unexpectedly. My Sorority sister wasn't familiar with the letter, nor of it's great significance. I was stumbling around with my clumbsy Arabic, straining with all of my might to read it word for word and translate it to her, for her to grasp it's weight. I had to get help to translate it. The letter read:

“In the Name of Allâh,the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. From Muhammad the Messenger of Allâh to Negus, king of Abyssinia (Ethiopia). Peace be upon him who follows true guidance. Salutations, I entertain Allâh’s praise, there is no god but He, the Sovereign, the Holy, the Source of peace, the Giver of peace, the Guardian of faith, the Preserver of safety. I bear witness that Jesus, the son of Mary, is the spirit of Allâh and His Word which He cast into Mary, the virgin, the good, the pure, so that she conceived Jesus. Allâh created him from His spirit and His breathing as He created Adam by His Hand. I call you to Allâh Alone with no associate and to His obedience and to follow me and to believe in that which came to me, for I am the Messenger of Allâh. I invite you and your men to Allâh, the Glorious, the All-Mighty. I hereby bear witness that I have communicated my message and advice. I invite you to listen and accept my advice. Peace be upon him who follows true guidance.”

When ‘Amr bin Omaiyah Ad-Damari communicated the Apostolic letter to Negus, the latter took the parchment and placed it on his eye, descended to the floor, confessed his faith in Islam and wrote the following reply to the Prophet (Peace be upon him).

“In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. From Negus Ashama to Muhammad, the Messenger of Allâh. Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allâh! and mercy and blessing from Allâh beside Whom there is no god. I have received your letter in which you have mentioned about Jesus and by the Lord of heaven and earth, Jesus is not more than what you say. We fully acknowledge that with which you have been sent to us and we have entertained your cousin and his companions. I bear witness that you are the Messenger of Allâh, true and confirming (those who have gone before you), I pledge to you through your cousin and surrender myself through him to the Lord of the worlds.”

This Christian King, before accepting Islam, gave shelter to the muslims at a time when they were suffering great persecution at the hands of the Quraish. His goodness and piety, as a Christan and later as a muslim, were reknowned through-out the land during his lifetime.

Having been blessed to unexpectedly read this document with my dear guest, gave us the opportunity to discuss the phrases above where the Prophet Muhammed states that Jesus was born of a virgin, which led us into discussing the many Christian tenets that Muslims believe in too. It was truly an amazing trip, with Allah's magnificient prescence strongly felt in our every move. I left the home with tears welling up in my eyes. I felt that I had been priveledged to see the beauty and wealth of Islamic heritage that is well hidden in Morocco, as a pearl is hidden in it's shell.

There is so much more to tell. I would be remiss if I failed to mention that I will never forget the hospitality and generousity that we were shown that day. The kindness of our hosts was truly remarkable and is an absolutely outstanding characteristic of the Moroccan people. For as long as I possess my mind, I will always remember this visit as one of the best experiences of my life. I feel so absoluetly proud to be a muslim, in the company of a Christian, when surrounded by muslims of such a high degree of Islamic knowledge and piety. Jazak Allah khair El Fatoui family, wa barak Allah ufeekum.

REAL LIFE HIJABI COUTURE FASHIONISTA #2

2009-03-03T06:49:00.001-08:00

Making clothes that make people happy, makes me happy. It is truly a blessing to do work that you love and that people can benefit from. Above is a picture of a dear client of mine, who has also become a friend. She radiates so much beauty and happiness in this picture that she recently sent me from Santa Lucia de Santiago de Chile, that I just couldn't resist sharing it with you. She is wearing our Fringe tunic in this photo and she said this about her newest Hijabi Couture Arrival:

"SSIIII ESTOY FELIZ COMO NIÑA CON JUGUETE NUEVO ESTRENANDO ROPA!!!!"

Meaning:

"YEEESSSSSSS I AM AS HAPPY AS A LITTLE GIRL WITH A NEW TOY WEARING MY NEW CLOTHES!!!!"

Thank-you Matlalli for allowing me to share your beauty with the world. I appreciate your supporting and enjoying Hijabi Couture from the bottom of my heart.

To all of my other family, clients, friends and supporters, may Allah bless you, your wealth and your families for being a part of Hijabi Couture, amin.

TO PURCHASE THIS SOFT AND BEAUTIFUL FRINGE TUNIC, MADE OF 100% MORROCAN FABRIC, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

If you are a real life Hijabi Couture Fashionsita and wouldn't mind being featured, please contact Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

You can shop safely with Hijabi Couture

2009-02-26T13:46:00.000-08:00

Shopping online is easy with Hijabi Couture. We offer convenient ways to pay and its all secure using the latest SSL encryption technology, via paypal. We accept all major credit cards, checks and paypal.
Terms and Conditions:
The purchase of products from Hijabi Couture, relationship and use of its website are governed by these terms and conditions. Please read carefully the following terms and disclaimers. By accessing this site and/or placing an order you agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions set out below. We may change these terms from time to time without notice to you. If you do not agree to these Terms and Conditions, please do not purchase products or in any way use the Hijabi Couture website. We accept no responsibility for the web sites or other information, practices or products of other parties linked to this web site. Your dealings with persons found via this web site are between you and such persons and we will not be liable for any loss or damage arising out of such dealings. If any of these terms or disclaimers shall be unlawful, void or for any reason unenforceable then that provision shall be deemed severable and shall not affect the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions.
Our terms and conditions are set out as follows; 1) Returns Policy 2) Privacy Policy 3) Terms of Purchase 4) Value Added Tax 5) Duties 6) Accuracy of Information 7) Intellectual Property 8) Disclaimers 9) Limitations of use of Website 10) General 11) Company Details
1) Returns Policy: We hope that you are happy with your purchase from Hijabi Couture but if for any reason you are unhappy with your purchase, we will gladly exchange the item or refund your money. Your statutory rights are not affected. Simply post the goods back to us within 14 days in saleable and unused condition:
Hijabi Couture Returns Dept, 83 Second Avenue Suite #2, New York, NY 10003 USA
Refunds will be made by the original payment method. Unfortunately, we cannot cover the cost of returning the goods to us. We recommend you post the goods back as recorded delivery as we cannot be held responsible for goods that do not reach us.
Please allow 7 working days for returns to be processed once they reach our warehouse and a further 3 days for any refund to appear in your account.
2) Privacy Policy: We are committed to protecting your privacy. We will only use the information that we collect about you lawfully (in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998). We collect information about you for 2 reasons: firstly, to process your order and second, to provide you with the best possible service. We will not e-mail you in the future unless you have given us your consent. We will give you the chance to refuse any marketing email from us or from another trader in the future. The type of information we will collect about you includes: your name address phone number email address credit/debit card details We will never collect sensitive information about you without your explicit consent. The information we hold will be accurate and up to date. You can check the information that we hold about you by emailing us. If you find any inaccuracies we will delete or correct it promptly. The personal information which we hold will be held securely inaccordance with our internal security policy and the law.
If you have any questions/comments about privacy, you should contact us.
3) Terms of Purchase: The products supplied from this web site are supplied by Hijabi Couture and shall be referred to as "Hijabi Couture", "we", "us", or"our" throughout this web site. All website information, communications including advertisements made by Hijabi Couture are invitations only and are not offers or unilateral contracts. Your submission of an order represents an offer to purchase the products indicated by you, and is not binding on us until we have notified you that the order is accepted and the goods have been despatched by us. This means that if a product is shown on the web site but is not available or is incorrectly priced or otherwise incorrectly described, Hijabi Couture shall not be obliged to sell you that product. 4) Value Added Tax The price of any products stated on this web site shall be exclusive of Value Added Tax.5) Duties If your order may attract import duty and local sales taxes that must be paid upon receipt of the shipment. These rules vary by country andyour local government determines duty and customs charges. Hijabi Couture is not responsible for payment or reimbursement of any of these duties or charges.6) Accuracy of Information We attempt to be as accurate as possible when describing our products; however, to the extent permitted by applicable law, we do not warrant that the product descriptions, colours or other content available on the website is accurate, complete, reliable, current, or error-free. All sizes and measurements are approximate; however we do make every effort to ensure they are as accurate as possible.7) Intellectual Property The content of the Hijabi Couture site is protected by copyright, trademarks, database and other intellectual property rights. You may retrieve and display the content of the Hijabi Couture site on a computer screen, store such content in electronic form on disk (but not any server or other storage device connected to a network) or print one copy of such content for your own personal, non-commercialuse, provided you keep intact all and any copyright and proprietary notices. You may not otherwise reproduce, modify, copy or distribute or use for commercial purposes any of the materials or content on the Hijabi Couture site without written permission from Hijabi Couture.8) Disclaimers We reserve the rights to change, modify, remove or substitute without notice any information shown on the web site or any other web site owned by Hijabi Couture from time to time. Prices and availability ofgoods are subject to change. Nothing in this disclaimer applies to anyproducts you purchase from Hijabi Couture. Hijabi Couture does notcontrol, endorse and is not responsible for the availability orcontent of any third party websites available via this website througha link, or for any services or product you buy through such websites.All content and services on this website are provided on an "as is"basis and Hijabi Couture does not make any representation or give anywarranty in respect of the website and its content. In particular,Hijabi Couture does not give any warranty as to the accuracy, suitability, reliability, completeness, performance, fitness, freedom from viruses or timeliness of the content or services contained onthis website. Hijabi Couture will not be liable for any damages (including without limitation loss of profit or loss of use) arising out of your use or delay or inability to use the website, its contentor any link to another website arising in contract, tort (including negligence) or otherwise except in the case of death or personalinjury caused by Hijabi Couture negligence.9) Limitations of use of Website You may not use the Hijabi Couture website for any of the following purposes: disseminating any unlawful, harassing, libellous, abusive, threatening, harmful, vulgar, obscene, or otherwise objectionable material transmitting material that encourages conduct thatconstitutes a criminal offence, results in civil liability orotherwise breaches any relevant laws, regulations or code of practice gaining unauthorised access to other computer systems interfering withany other person's use or enjoyment of the Hijabi Couture website breaching any laws concerning the use of public telecommunicationsnetworks interfering or disrupting networks or web sites connected tothe Hijabi Couture website making, transmitting or storing electronic copies of materials protected by copyright without the permission of the owner Hijabi Couture reserves the right to refuse to post material on the Hijabi Couture website or message board or to remove material already posted on the Hijabi Couture website or message board. You will indemnify us against all losses, liabilities, costs and expenses reasonably suffered or incurred by us, all damages awarded against us under any judgement by a court of competent jurisdiction and all settlements sums paid by us as a result of any settlement agreed by us arising out or in connection with: any claim by any third party that the use of the Hijabi Couture website by you is defamatory, offensiveor abusive, or of an obscene or pornographic nature, or is illegal or constitutes a breach of any applicable law, regulation or code ofpractice; any claim by any third party that the use of the HijabiCouture website by you infringes that third party's copyright or other intellectual property rights of whatever nature; and any fines orpenalties imposed by any regulatory, advertising or trading body or authority in connection with the use of the Hijabi Couture website by you.10) General These Terms and Conditions constitute the entire agreement between us in respect of the use of our services and of our website and supersede any and all prior agreements, arrangements and representations (save in respect of those made fraudulently). If any of these Terms and Conditions are found to be invalid then that provision shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions which shall remainfully enforceable. No waiver by us of any term shall be deemed to be continuing or shall be deemed to be a waiver of any other term. 11) Company Details: Hijabi Couture is a Moroccan-American business. The boutique address is: 27 Souk Harrairne Kdima, Marrakech, Morocco 40000. It's office address is: Hijabi Couture 83 Second Avenue Suite #2 New York, New York 10003 USA email: Hijabicouture@gmail.com
telephone: 212-13-10-84-59 (Morocco)

Jewels for Your Soul

2009-02-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

Bismillah Ar-rahman, Nir-raheem

Para mi hijito, Khalito

Son, there are a few things
You have to know before I go
For sure, we were very poor
When you were first born.
I cried, as I prayed, at times
Because we had such a rough ride
Yet, Allah never cast us aside
And we weathered the tide.
When all of our resources had been spent
And there was no money to be lent
Mommy prayed for the rent.
Know the money came through heaven-sent.
So, always maintain your pride
And don’t do just anything to make a dime.
Don’t you ever sell your soul for drugs
Because jail and hell are awaiting many thugs.
Remember that we’ve struggled

And thrived through many tests
Our much more has followed our much less
So, should money ever have you stressed
You just have faith, and remember,

That you, my son, are truly blessed.
This is your legacy,
You’ve got riches in your soul
Even through poverty,
We’ve had riches more than gold
All through our ancestry,
We’ve had a strength unknown
You just have faith and see,
How your dreams will unfold.
Son take this advice –
Don’t ever let anyone seduce you into vice.
When people start drinking gin and juice
And they start acting loose
Step aside, be quick to slide
Because you, my son,
Have great things to produce.
People will act a fool
And the world is very cruel
But, you follow the Golden Rule
Do for others what you would
Have them do for you.
Though at times you’ll be deceived,
If you fall down on your knees
And you pray and believe,
You will achieve, you will succeed.
This is your legacy,
These are my jewels your soul
Even through poverty,
We’ve had riches more than gold
All through our ancestry,
Our people had a faith unknown
You just have faith and see,
How your dreams will unfold.
Son, you’ve brought peace to my life
I no longer find myself in strife
But, back in the days…
I had violent ways.
Your Uncle Jared says
That I had rage
Just poppin’
All out of me.
So should anyone ever
Try to hurt you in a craze,
Do not be amazed
At the war Mommy'll blaze.
Know this is true,
I’ll proudly die to protect you.
When my life is through,
You remember that I did
What I had to do.
When I die, don’t cry
Don’t grieve;
Know that your mama is

Resting in peace
Because she truly believed;
Once I’m deceased,
Should your life get hard.
Know that Allah is never far
Tell Him what He likes to hear;
That it’s only Him that you fear
Through your trials Allah
Will hold you dear.

When my body lies breathless
I want you to remember nothing less;
That you will never go astray
As long as it's five times a day
That you pray
This is your legacy,
You’ve got riches in your soul
Even through poverty,
We’ve had riches more than gold
All through our ancestry,
We’ve had blessings yet untold
You just have faith and see,
How your dreams will unfold.

The husband and wife series

2009-02-15T11:06:00.001-08:00

I am so excited about some of my new designs that I just can't wait until the line is finished and professionally photographed to share them on the blog. I am no photographer. But, I really do love these new designs. What do you think about the husband and wife series? Would you buy these for your spouse and yourself? Or, would you just buy one of these? If so, which one?

Sweet Sistahs by Najea "Eloquence" Lujan

2009-02-12T03:42:00.000-08:00

I dedicate this one to my sisters
Because life is so much
Sweeter when I’m wit cha’
Who are we?
Beautiful and sisterly
The ladies who
Represent our community
With dignity
Know how to flex
We never surrender
We demand respect
For our gender
How awesome -
The power of femininity
To see our children come
From out of our bodies
From deep inside us
We are the nicest;
Mothers are priceless,
Queenly Like Isis
We’re not
No kinda hottie
Moschino Ho
Or Versace hotchie
We are radiant
No matter the clothes
Labels don’t define us
I am not lying
All my girls are fine;
We have brilliant minds
That what makes us dimes;
We are goodness genuine
That’s why we always shine.
We bounce and creep
From the concrete
Of them city streets
And swim in country creeks
We bounce and bop
To that Bronx beat
And bellydance in the
African and Arab heat
We’ve got Hip hop
In our feet
Our every move
Is sweet
Our styles are unique
We’re rhyme sayers
Real power players
Smooth like pearls
Grown ghetto girls
It's factual
We're international
Por Favor
Mi amor
Call us mamis
Flowing from Spanish
To Arabic and English
Uptown flavor
With a little sazón
For you to savor
No somos todas
Boricuas, muselmanas,
Colombianas, mexicanas
Ni dominicanas
Pero esto si lo somos
Somos 100% DAMAS
From Bronx bombers
To Students with Honors
Beautiful and sisterly
The ladies who

Represent our community
With dignity
We Dem Beautiful
Brownies and blondies
We're not down for whatever
But, we do get our cheddar
Call us butter
Lucious lips
That don’t stutter.
We them
Slick,
Quick,
Thick mamas
Beauty bombers-
Revolutionary
Like Angela
And Assatta
We are beautiful
Female phenomena.
We don’t bicker about hair
Because we’re too busy
Uniting in prayer
And being there
For our people
Showing that we care
We range from
Light and bright
To dark and black
Like the luscious night
And it’s all right
Because we’re all tight
We feed our seeds
Thanking Almighty Allah
As He provides for our needs
We flip our own whips
We bring home the chips
Epitome of independent
We get the rent
It’s female phenomena
We represent
Ya Ahkawatee
Hear me - Uhibookii
Fisibilah, wa Allahi
Until the day I die.

Hand-Crocheted Trim Tunic

2009-02-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

This tunic has a beautiful hand-crocheted trim around the neck and sleeves. I sold-out of these and recently made a new set of them. One of my clients (and soul-sister friends) asked me to custom-make her a second one of these in yellow. Which I did and I have to say that the yellow crochet reminded me of the sun. Alhamdulilah! I just love bright colors. When I saw the final product, it just cheered me up. I let the sister know that if she changed her mind and didn't want it - that would be fine with me. What I didn't say is that I would've loved to have it join my personal collection! ;) Making clothes for people really brings me joy. So, if you would like this beautiful tunic to join your collection, or have any custom requests, please give me the pleasure of taking your order.

Real-Life Hijabi Couture Fashionista

2009-01-23T13:39:00.000-08:00

Today, I introduce to you a Real Life Hijabi Couture Fashionista, the very lovely Sister Zakkiyah. When I saw this picture all I could say was: "WOW! Now that's how you wear a hat with hijab!". Isn't she just gorgeous? That's my Lil' Homie Zakkiyah who I wrote about here. If you missed that blog, I wrote about how she so generously showed up at my house with the beautiful hijab I have on in that picture. Blue was her favorite color way back then. Then, I came into her life and, well, added a little more color! (In more ways than one.) When I first saw this picture, I hadn't realized that she's wearing a Hijabi Couture hijab I gave her. She is such a lovely sister, an ideal muslima in every sense of the word. She studies the deen more than any sister I have ever known, visits the sick and does all that she can to help others. Honestly, the beauty that you see here, radiates from the inside out and I wanted to share her with you. I'd also like to ask you to say a prayer for her because she is recovering from surgery.

When I first saw the fabric below, I thought of her because she loves to tie-die. So, I added it to last year's collection, with her in mind. In that collection, I used the fabric for that kaftan and the Safiya tunic, which you can find here. She was my first customer to add it to her collection. So, I gave her the hijab above to compliment this kaftan. I have to say, I think she wears them fabulously.

If you are a real life Hijabi Couture Fashionista and would be so generous as to let us feature you or if you would like to steal Zakkiyah's style, please contact Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Kaftan: Inspired by Sunshine!

2009-01-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

I designed this inspired by the sun and wanted to post it today, because I wish I had more sunshine in my life. It is so cold here, which I really dislike. It has put me somewhat in a slump. I must have SAD also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. Do any of you feel like this? If you do, how do you shake it and if you don't - how do you avoid it?

Denim Skirt and Jacket: Wearing Hijabi Couture On Inauguration Day

2009-01-20T08:18:00.000-08:00

Inauguration Day by Hijabi Couture

Proud! I am so excited about The Change that has come to America, I think it should be an International Holiday! Above you have what I would be wearing to the Inauguration, if only I were there. The skirt and jacket above are available for sale on a link below. Are you excited too?

THE WINTER COLLECTION

2009-01-08T04:12:00.000-08:00

Here you have our complete winter collection. We hope that you like love it. We've made this line more casual and "date night". We hope that it is exactly what you need. To order Hijabi Couture, please scroll through this blog, you will find our many different styles and sizes below. Once we know the weight of your order, we will inform you of the least expensive and fastest shipping options available. We have a money-back guarantee, if you aren't completely satisfied with your order. We also honor custom requests. If you have any questions, please contact Najea at Hijabicouture@gmail.com. Thanks for visiting Hijabi Couture!

Hijabi Couture Hijabs and Accessories

2009-01-06T12:58:00.000-08:00

The lovely scarf featured above comes with and without the matching bag. They come in a rainbow of colors: many shades of blues, blacks, purples, oranges, beiges, tans, greys and the list goes on. The scarves cost $10.00 and the coordinating hand-made bag costs $10.00 too.

Cool Blue and Mellow Yellow for Kauthar

2008-12-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

Mellow Yellow For Kauthar by Hijabi Couture

The collage above says: Eid Mubarak! Which I'd like to extend to you all and especially to the Umar family, from the bottom of my heart. This collage was inspired by my sister-girl, Kauthar Umar. She wrote my biography, featured below, and has encouraged me to continue on with all of my positive endeavors. I can't thank her and her family enough and certainly can't say enough good things about her. She is a multi-talented sister, a journalist, photgrapher, community-organizer, educator, motivator and special friend. Among many other things that she is blessed with, she is also the beautiful reflection of her tremendous parents, to whom I am forever endebted. Knowing this family is an honor and a pleasure.

The tunic above happens to be one item in my collection I have always imagined on Kauthar, with some nice wide-legged pants and a beautiful hijab. Her style is casual and sophisticated. So, this is a look for an artistic, professional sister on the move. I hope you like it. Do you?
If you would like to order it, please scroll down to the link titled: "Wonderful Winter Wears", where it is featured in pink with plum trim and plum slacks.

Polished and Professional

2008-12-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Professional and Polished by Hijabi Couture
Work it! What else can I say? This professional jilbab has a beautiful slit in the back that has an interior pleat. The slit makes it easy to walk and the pleat is of the alternating color, providing coverage and a touch of style. This lovely garment is also available in grey and black. The tan and brown featured is 100% Linen. The grey and black is available in both linen and corduroy. Modestly priced at $65.00 USD.

The Black Safiya Tunic

2008-12-10T10:46:00.000-08:00

The Safiya Tunic by Hijabi Couture
I wore the above tunic today and thought that it would be nice to share it with you. It's comfortable and falls in a flowy cascade from the ribcage down. It can be dressed up with slacks and heels and worn-down with some jeans and flats too. Once again, Hijabi Couture offers you a multi-functional flowing fashion for your wardrobe. To order, please see below. We also offer this in white with silver trim.

The Safari Shirt Dress

2008-12-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

I especially love this clean and sleek Safari shirt because although it has a classic simplicity, it also has versatility. It can be worn as a shirt, or a dress, over slacks, leggings, a longer dress or a skirt. It can also be worn with the belt beautifully bowed in the front, side or the back; or, simply tied, or loosely tied, or not tied at all. Then as an added bonus - for all my nursing moms - you can open and close it easily, all the while looking lovely. It is available in red, pink, off-white with black buttons or off-white buttons, dark plum, black, kelly green, yellow, orange, turquoise and brown for the modest price of $35.00 USD. Our present sizes are Small (US SIZE 2-4), Medium (US SIZE 6-8), Large (US SIZE 10-12), X-Large (US SIZE 14-16) 2X-Large (US SIZE 18-20), 3X-Large (US SIZE 22-24)

The Skirt Collection

2008-12-08T13:59:00.000-08:00

These beauties are made of the top of the line in denim, linen and cotton fabric. They are all modestly priced at $35.00 USD for the skirt and $35.00 USD for the jacket.

Sizes

Wonderful Winter Wears

2008-12-05T15:35:00.000-08:00

I'm loving this new line and this new blog! I have to thank my girl the Kaftan Queen for taking these fabulous pictures and setting up this blog. She is fabulous! Barak Allah Ufeeki.

Sizes

Asiatic Fanatic

2008-12-05T15:16:00.001-08:00

From Drop Box

Available in all sizes. Name your price! Just kidding! It's only $60.00 USD - what a bargain. Hurry and order while supplies last

Embroidered Long Button Blouse

2008-12-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

It's simple and chic. Available in red, pink, off-white with black buttons or off-white buttons, dark plum, black, kelly green (featured), yellow, orange, turquoise and brown for the modest price of $35.00 USD. Our present sizes are Small (US SIZE 2-4), Medium (US SIZE 6-8), Large (US SIZE 10-12), X-Large (US SIZE 14-16) 2X-Large (US SIZE 18-20), 3X-Large (US SIZE 22-24)

How To Rock A Hijabi Couture Tunic!

2008-11-26T12:45:00.000-08:00

Cinnamon Tunic Set by Hijabi Couture

I just love these warm winter colors. When I first saw this lovely shade of cinnamon I went kanhamuk! (That's Moroccan for Crazy!) I just adore the end result. Don't you? To acquire the tunic or the lovely bag, click on the paypal link below, inquire with Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com or visit our website www.hijabicouture.com.

The Limited Edition Fatima Bag Collection

2008-11-24T15:20:00.001-08:00

These lovely bags will soon be available in all of the above Colors with an alternative Golden Embroidery and Metallic Orange Copper with Dark Bronze Embroidery too. All modestly priced at $50.00 USD. To order click below or contact Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com

Black and Gold Elegant Anniversary Outfit

2008-11-24T12:51:00.000-08:00

Black and Gold Hijabi Couture by Hijabi Couture

This is the height of chic to me, elegant and fabulous. Warm with a similar and very modern underdress with complimentary, smaller gold buttons down the front and up the sleeves. To acquire, please inquire with Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Hijabi Couture Kaftan

2008-11-23T10:51:00.001-08:00

This is the very first Kaftan that Hijabi Couture ever manufactured. The embroidery is done in turquoise, blue, green and brown. The trim that you see bordering this top-quality fabric was woven by hand from fine thread. The small buttons (okad) that you see running down the middle and all of the crochet finishing on the neck and sleeves were all finished by hand. This is a unique piece, also available in black, in more sizes and custom fit option. To purchase this item click below, to see close-up photos of the beautiful details, please visit, www.hijabicouture.com or contact Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Hijabi Couture Winter Collection Selected Styles

2008-11-22T04:19:00.001-08:00

Fabulous Fringe Chocolate Tunic

2008-11-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

Hijabi Couture Brown Fringe Tunic by Hijabi Couture

Fringe is funky, fringe is hot, fringe is girly and mixed with the above accessories, our fringe tunic is Boho-Glam! What the picture doesn't show you is how rich and lovely this fabric and the trim are. I included the golden jeans because this trim has a slight hint of gold in it's thread that is to die for. For my many sisters who aren't bling-blingy, this tunic would look sophisticated with a pair of khakis and boho-chic over a pair of jeans with some funky boots. Once again, Hijabi Couture offers you a multi-functional fabulous garment. This tunic is also available in cream with caramel embroidery. For orders and inquires, please contact Najea here or at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Casual Chic Zakkiyah Tunic

2008-11-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

Zakkiyah Tunic Set by Hijabi Couture
This beautiful tunic can be worn so many ways. Many of the clothes that I design, I design to be multi-functional. You could wear the above tunic with jeans and boots - like in my collage - or you could dress this up with a nice skirt. I just love the new Fatima bags too. They are so funky and modern. Looking at this outfit, it's no wonder my friends call me Sister Bling-Bling. To order the Zakkiyah Tunic click on the link below, or please contact Najea here or at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Guess Whose Back?

2008-11-19T04:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry I didn't post for a few days. I was out of town with my husband at a Conference. It is always nice to get away and change the scenery for a few days. I wore the red Chinese tunic below with dark slacks and dark high heeled boots for the morning seminars. I later changed out of the heels and put on some sneakers. I photographed myself in this tunic, with the sneakers, on the promenade in front of the beach in Casablanca. I was so pleased with the look of this with my sneakers. I felt elegant at first with my heels and nice and casual later. This tunic is multi-purpose, just like the modern woman. It can be elegant and professional, yet comfortable and relaxed. For orders, please contact Najea, here or at hijabicouture@gmail.com. This item is also available at http://www.hijabicouture.com/.

About Us

2008-11-15T13:31:00.000-08:00

Hijabi Couture founder and CEO, Francesca Najea Lujan is an American clothing designer, spoken word poet, educator, wife and mother of African American, Spanish, Cherokee and English decent, currently living in Morocco.

Lujan was raised in Mexico and in New York City’s South Bronx during the fabulous hip-hop era of the 1980’s. Before converting to Islam, Lujan studied screen writing and worked in the TV and film industry with countless talents such as film director Spike Lee, Wesley Snipes, Mary J. Blige, and Grand Puba, . After obtaining an MA in the late 90’s Lujan became a professor and nationally known multi-lingual spoken-word poet, a style of performance poetry categorized in the hip-hop genre.

“As a poet and teacher, I used my knowledge of hip-hop to bridge the gap between what my students knew - hip-hop - and what I wanted them to learn, poetry.”

Now living in Morocco, Lujan unites her love of art, poetry, education and people. She splits her time as an Educational Director and CEO of her dream venture, Hijabi Couture, a clothing company that meets the needs of today's modern woman. Which lives up to it’s tag line “international, modern, modest and marvelous”, Lujan strives to bring her past experiences into how Hijabi Couture is packaged and presented.

While fulfilling the needs of Muslim women world wide, Hijabi Couture is also committed to its “Commerce with a Conscience” international education program that supports orphans’ education through creative means.

“I’m pleased that through Hijabi Couture we are able to express my passion for developing creative ways to educate. Not only will a portion of the proceeds of each sale go toward securing education for the under-priveleged orphans in developing countries, but also expanding to support to educational programs for orphans in the United States.”

Learn more about how you can support Hijabi Couture’s “Commerce with a Conscience” education program, please scroll down on the blog."

To purchase the bag above, please click on the link below or contact Najea at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Modern Jilbab

2008-11-14T15:33:00.000-08:00

This is one of my newest models. It's named: Modern Jilbab. I remember when I first drew this beauty out on paper and now - here she is - in full bloom. I designed a very simple, slick, black dress to go underneath it.
It looks great opened and closed. It so warm, soft and cuddly. It's made out of a stretchy, velvet fabric. I wore it to a concert that was sponsored by my school recently. My Arabic teacher complimented me on this outfit and said that he was very proud of the work that I have done with the company. That made me feel as lovely as this garment looks.
To purchase this item, the matching dress or for any inquiries about Hijabi Couture, please leave me a comment or e-mail me (Najea) at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

The Jamilah Tunic on Mannequins

2008-11-13T06:19:00.000-08:00

Bismillah. If you only knew the drama that a model put me through once -you'd understand why I just adore mannequins so much. One day, maybe I'll it break down and tell you. Better yet, you don't even want to know...! These models are modestly priced at $35.oo and look lovely as dresses too. I wore one yesterday and danced around the house for my husband, he he he ;)! Then, I put on the outfit below.

Me In Hijabi Couture

2008-11-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

I got many compliments on my new Hijabi Couture outfit today. I really love this outfit for so many reasons. The first is because my girl Zakkiyah was once wearing the hijab I have on here. I complimented her on it and the very next day, she arrived at my house with it in a gift bag - perfumed. Now, that's sisterhood! I also just love the way that our Jamilah tunic has turned out. If you can zoom in on this photograph you will be able to see that the extra touches and embroidery are very beautiful. I am very pleased with the color combination. You have no idea how I agonize over the color choices and the dying process. I am also pleased with this skirt. At first I had asked for it to be stone-washed and was dissappointed with the fact that it couldn't be due to time constraints. At the end of the day, I am very happy with the shade of blue that we have. Lastly, I love this outft because is a combination of many qualities that I admire: modest, casual, classy, feminine, modern and marvelous. You could wear it to work, to the park with the little ones, for a romantic stroll with your hubby or out shopping with your girls. I originally took this picture to e-mail my girl Zakkiyah and thank her again for the pretty hijab. But, decided to upload it here to the blog in honor of Zaenab who said she wants to see my clothes on a person. So, here you have it! This is the new Jamilah Tunic from my winter collection and the newly named Jamilah denim skirt - modeled by ME, a non-model, Hijabi Couture, Creative Executive Officer . The two are modestly priced at $35.00 USD each.

Feeling Like A Rock Star Hijabi

2008-11-11T13:58:00.000-08:00

Alhamdulilah!

Today I feel like a Rock Star Hijabi!

I woke up early and said a prayer that I learned from Hisnul Muslim, also known as Fortification of the Muslim. (A gift I got from my sister-girl Zakkiyah.) "All praise is for Allah who restored to me my health and returned my soul and has allowed me to remember Him." Then, after a week of feeling sick and skipping the gym - I put on the above Hijabi Couture top with their matching sports pants and headed for the gym feeling like a sporty little deva. - I hit an aerobics class. And ...WOW! What a feeling! I feeeel good - nana-nah-nah nah! I feeellll nice...!

But that's not the best of it - after class, I took the world's longest ghusl and worked with my natural texture a bit - extra conditioning - separating and twisting and twirling the individual curls that needed it. Just because I wear hijab doesn't mean that I don't take care of the lovely locks the Lord gave me. I just don't always have the time and since my hijab flattens my fullness - I don't often make the time. Today was the elusive exception and I'm loving the results!

It gets better! What a day! I put on my bronzer and I don't know why but that makes me feel extra lovely. Then, for the first time ever, I wore my new Hijabi Couture full-length denim skirt and matching jacket. I rocked it with a hijab my husband gave me way back when we were first engaged. I walked out of that gym feeling like a Rock Star Hijabi.

I got home and found the down-payment for our FIRST BOUTIQUE ORDER here in Marrakech. I ran off to my manufacturer and started the order. What a day! I feel good...! So, good...!

I have to give thanks to Allah for a beautiful day. How Perfect Allah is! I also want to offer this prayer for everyone who has supported Hijabi Couture: "May Allah bless you, your family and your wealth.". Amin.

The Fatima Bag Collection

2008-11-10T14:12:00.002-08:00

The Fatima Bag Collection
Designed by
Francesca Najea Lujan
Hijabi Couture, CEO
hijabicouture@gmail.com

These bags are hand-made and produced with the highest quality leather imported from Spain. They are available in Silver, bronze, copper, metallic brown and black. They are affordably priced at $50.00 USD. The interior is lined with a fabric of a similar color and it has an interior pocket with a zipper, for security. To see more of the collection, please click on the link to my facebook page on your right. For purchase and inquiry, please write Najea here or at HijabiCouture@gmail.com.

Hijabi Couture Has Plus-Sized Clothing

2008-11-09T07:04:00.000-08:00

Thanks Malek for being the very first person to comment on this brand-new blog! Marhababik, Bienvenida, Bienvenue and Welcome to Hijabi Couture! I'm so thrilled to answer your questions and comments! Please keep them coming.

Featured above is one of our latest designs that features a very wide-legged pant and a long flattering tunic in a silky, denim, light-weight fabric. The embroidery doesn't show well in this picture. However, up close the embroidery is beautiful, it is a combination of off-white and a soft gold thread. All of the detailing and finishings on our clothes are of the utmost quality. We take great care to ensure fine workmanship and affordabilty. This outfit is both comfortable and flattering. You can dress it up and down, making it very versatile. It isn't up on the website yet, because it's brand-new. Making it truly alluring, it is modestly priced at $60.00 USD.

We offer six sizes presently: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL. Not only do we have a variety of sizes, but we also consider what is most flattering to women of different shapes and sizes in our design process. Furthermore, our company happily fills custom orders.

Although our company is based in Morocco, we are an international company and consider the needs and expectations of women here in Africa and in America, Europe and Asia. Hijabi Couture is doing the best that we can to make clothing that leaves our diverse clientele feeling modern, modest and marvelous! Please contact Najea regarding orders you make here or at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

Commerce with a Conscience

2008-11-08T14:35:00.000-08:00

It is a goal of our company to take a share of our earnings and help the orphans in local orphanages, here in Marrakech. There is a community-development club that began here this year. I am so impressed with their work. They have been working in local orphanges and it is our goal as a company to help them. If you would like to know more about assisting this project, please contact Najea here or at hijabicouture@gmail.com.

The New Line!

2008-11-07T12:26:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited! Thanks to so many blessings and the help of some great friends and business partners, the new line is out and photographed. As the week progresses, the pictures of the new models will be blogged about. To order, please contact me Najea at Hijabicouture@gmail.com. Please tell us what you think about this Cinnamon Beauty.

Hip-Hop Hijabi

2008-11-06T11:44:00.001-08:00

I love to be diva-down, professional working CEO Madame President and all of that. But, I dream about having Hijab friendly Hip-Hop/Home-girlie clothes. I have these designs of fresh urban wear and have consulted with a visual artist about creating some Arabic-English graffitti to silk-screen onto my designs. What do you think about this idea? Do you dream about this too? Wouldn't that be funky? Any suggestions or requests? I can't wait to hear your comments.

Barak Obama

2008-11-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

I want to tell you that I have been jumping for joy all day, but I can't. I've cried so much. I wish my Grandmother had lived to see this day, her mother, her mother, her mother and all of our ancestors who endured slavery, the Jim Crow laws, the cruel South, segregation, discrimination and racism. As good as it has gotten for us, I feel saddness for how bad it was for them.

But, insh'Allah, as it all begins to sink in, I will start to rejoice in the future and what this means for my sons and all of Africa's children. Today, is a day when I feel firmly footed in the cross roads and although I am looking sadly at the road we've come down, I have hope for a better road ahead.

You might wonder what does this have to do with fashion? Well, fashion is a way of expressing the best of yourself. Indeed, a historical day like today is about improving this world. Here I am, an African-African living in Africa, standing in the crossroads - praying to see brighter days down the road.

Bismillah

2008-11-04T04:19:00.000-08:00

I am a fashion designer and own the company Hijabi Couture. I started to practice Islam and wear hijab more than a dozen years ago. When I first started to wear hijab, I had no idea of how to get it to stay on my head, let alone style it. I didn't know where to shop for Islamic garb until I had been practicing Islam for more than 5 years. Sisters weren't very helpful. I dreamed about becoming a fierce seamstress and never feeling like I was out of place again. I think that every muslima in the West goes through these struggles. So, I took sewing classes and studied design. I moved to Morocco and began my dream clothing company, Hijabi Couture. We launched a website, http://www.hijabicouture.com/ and are now opening a boutique in Marrakech. There are so many difficulties and joys that I never could have foreseen and I hope that this blog will be a place where I can chronicle them and learn from others. Please visit the site and let me know what you think about our styles. Welcome to Hijabi Couture! To purchase the Poet's Tunic, please click on the secure link below: