How to become a hijab and modest fashion model

Modest fashion is one of the busiest corners of online retail. Brands from Istanbul to London, Dubai and New York shoot new collections every season and need hijab-wearing and modest fashion models for product pages, lookbooks, campaigns and social content. This guide explains what the work involves, what brands look for and how to apply for free and safely.

What does a modest fashion model do?

A modest fashion model presents clothing, hijabs and accessories for modest fashion brands, usually wearing a hijab, turban or shawl. Typical jobs include:

• E-commerce and catalogue: Front, back, side and detail shots for product pages. This is the largest and most regular source of work. Read our guide to e-commerce modelling for more.
• Campaigns and lookbooks: Story-led shoots for new seasons, Eid and occasion-wear collections.
• Social and UGC: Reels, TikTok and product videos. If you're comfortable talking to camera, UGC creation can open extra work.
• Runway and events: Modest fashion weeks, trade fairs and store launches.

Do you need to meet height or size requirements?

There is no fixed height or size. Brands want to show their products on people who look like their customers, so there is demand for a wide range of ages, heights and sizes. What does help:

• Being 18 or over. CastLyra works only with adults.
• Styling a hijab neatly and quickly. Even when a stylist is on set, knowing several styles is a real advantage.
• Healthy skin and natural make-up. E-commerce shoots usually want a clean, simple look.
• Comfort on camera. How quickly you change poses decides how many products can be shot in a day. Start with our posing tips for new models.
• Knowing your measurements. Size, height and shoe size come up in every brief. See how to take model measurements.

What photos should you send?

You don't need a professional shoot. Sharp phone photos taken in daylight against a plain background are enough:

1. Close-up portrait: Face clearly visible, minimal make-up.
2. Waist up: Facing the camera, hijab neatly styled.
3. Full length: Front and side, in simple, plain-coloured clothes.
4. A second style (optional): A turban or a different hijab style.

Avoid filters, heavy retouching and AI-edited images. Our application photos guide has more tips.

How are modest fashion models paid?

Fees depend on shoot length, the number of products, and where and for how long the images will be used. E-commerce work is often priced per day or half-day; campaigns are priced together with usage rights. We've listed the questions to ask in how model fees work.

Warning: you never pay to apply

Search for "hijab model casting" and you'll find plenty of listings. Some ask for a registration fee, a paid portfolio shoot or "admin costs". For real work, you don't pay — you get paid. If something feels off, check the nine signs of a fake casting call.

Applying to CastLyra as a modest fashion model

Applying to CastLyra is free and fully online:

1. Create your account on the apply page.
2. Choose Modest Fashion Model as a category; add Model, UGC or Influencer if they fit.
3. Upload your photos and write a short bio.
4. Our team reviews your application personally. Once approved, your profile appears on the modest fashion models page.

Your phone number, e-mail and date of birth never appear on your profile. If a brand wants to work with you, we share your contact details only with your permission.

Frequently asked questions

I have no experience. Can I apply? Yes. Just state your experience level. Many e-commerce brands work with new faces.

Do I have to wear one particular style? No. You can list the styles you prefer on your profile, and brands say what they need in the brief.

Are there shoots where my face isn't shown? Yes. Some product and detail shots crop the face out. You can mention this preference in your bio.