Some argue that the pressure to keep up with "hijab trends" has created a new form of consumerism and body anxiety. The "hijab baper" (bawa perasaan - emotional) phenomenon describes women who feel judged for wearing a simple, non-stylish hijab. The industry, they say, has commodified piety.
The next frontier for Indonesian hijab fashion is sustainability. The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world, and the disposable nature of "fast hijab" (buying a $2 polyester scarf for a single wear) is being challenged. Some argue that the pressure to keep up
However, the hijab is not without controversy in Indonesia. Some argue that the hijab is a symbol of oppression, while others see it as a restriction on personal freedom. There have been instances where women have been criticized or even penalized for wearing the hijab in public. Despite these challenges, the majority of Indonesian women continue to wear the hijab with pride, seeing it as an integral part of their faith and culture. The next frontier for Indonesian hijab fashion is
The rise of social media has had a profound impact on Indonesian hijab fashion, with influencers and celebrities showcasing their stylish and faith-inspired outfits to millions of followers. Popular hijab influencers like Dian Sastrowardoyo and Ayu Saraswati have become household names, promoting modest fashion and inspiring young Indonesian women to experiment with new styles and trends. Some argue that the hijab is a symbol
As the world moves toward more inclusive and modest fashion (driven not just by Muslims, but by Jews, Christians, and secular minimalists), Indonesia stands as the blueprint. It shows that you can cover your hair and still turn heads—not in spite of your faith, but in full, colourful celebration of it.
Then came the 1990s. Under the authoritarian Suharto regime, a subtle Islamic revival began—not as a rebellion, but as a purification of identity. Middle-class women started wearing the jilbab (the local term for hijab) to university as a badge of modern piety. The state initially resisted, but by the early 2000s, the dam broke.