The Modest Dresser is a monthly series in which Who What Wear 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.
Every month, I build upon my wardrobe with pieces that strike the perfect balance between trend-conscious and modest. And whilst the spring/summer 2025 shows brought plenty of daring, skin-baring moments to the runways, they also delivered a refreshing take on foundational dressing—something that's always at the core of my personal style.
Designers this season showed that covering up doesn't have to mean playing it safe. Instead, we saw a strong emphasis on fluid tailoring, reworked classics and breezy silhouettes that felt super wearable yet undeniably fashion-forward—The Row and Peter Do reaffirmed their mastery of the oversized silhouette, presenting languid suiting with soft shoulders and pooling trousers that draped beautifully rather than overwhelming the frame.
Of course, great style isn't just dictated by designer fashion. The high street is already tapping into these themes, making it easier than ever to incorporate them into a modest wardrobe. I've been leaning into relaxed tailoring—think lightweight waistcoats, slouchy trousers and longline blazers that work just as well with trainers as they do with ballet flats. Meanwhile, crisp cotton shirts (the kind I can tuck into a structured midi skirt or wear open over a vest) have become my go-to layering piece. And let's not forget about flowing maxi skirts, which continue to be essential for me as the weather gets warmer, whether styled with an oversized knit or a simple tank and linen blazer.
Taking cues from both high fashion and real-life styling, I've curated a selection of pieces that feel true to my aesthetic—refined yet practical, timeless yet contemporary. Whether it's an airy tunic that echoes the diaphanous layering or a collarless blazer that captures the modern elegance of COS’s tailoring, each item is a considered addition to a wardrobe that champions both style and coverage.
Below is my edit of 15 pieces that I'm eyeing (and in some cases, which I've already added to my basket) this month.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces This Month:
This has the same effortless drape that I loved in multiple spring and summer shows. The slightly elongated silhouette makes it perfect for layering over long-sleeved tops or light knitwear. I'll pair it with loose tailored trousers and ballet flats for a polished yet relaxed look.
A pink button-down is a fresh take on a wardrobe staple. This one is made from 100% organic cotton, which is breathable and lightweight for spring.
I'm seeing so much fluid tailoring on showgoers this fashion month, and these trousers nail the trend without being too oversized. They're true to size, but if you're petite, you might need them hemmed.
This flowing midi skirt has a crisp structure that holds its shape beautifully.
Waistcoats aren't going anywhere, and this one, with a drawstring waist, feels timeless yet fresh. The clean lines make it a great layering piece. I'd style it over a fitted turtleneck or a simple white shirt with relaxed trousers.
I know 2025 is supposedly the year we'll see skinny jeans make a comeback, but I'm pivoting to a slightly slimmer but still modest pair of straight-leg jeans.
The lightweight, airy fabric is perfect for layering, and the cut feels reminiscent of Cecilie Bahnsen's ethereal pieces. It's breathable for warmer days but still structured enough to hold its shape.
I love the movement of this satin dress—it sways beautifully when you walk and works for both casual and formal outfits. Layer with a knitted top and flats for daytime, or with heels and a blazer for evening.
This shirt is an easy, breathable layering piece.
Ballet flats were a quiet trend at the S/S 25 shows, often styled with maxi skirts or slouchy trousers. These feel timeless but have a contemporary edge with a square toe. Pro tip: I always go half a size up with flats, as the friction from walking, along with the incoming warm weather, can cause your feet to swell.
Try these cropped, wide-leg jeans with a boxy blazer or an oversized knit for contrast.
This T-shirt dress has an elegant flow that makes modest dressing feel graceful rather than restrictive. When accessorised right, it can work for everything from a wedding to an evening dinner and brunch.
Another pink moment, this time thanks to Valentino, with these delicate kitten-heel slingbacks.
Lightweight and slightly fuzzy, this is perfect for transitional weather.
The perfect throw-on piece for spring—effortless, breathable and endlessly versatile. It also comes in bright red.
Shop My Favourite Modest Pieces From Last Month:
The kind of skirt you'll wear on repeat. Pair it with a lightweight knit and trainers for now, and a relaxed white shirt and sandals when spring arrives.
This cream cardigan will become a wardrobe classic. Throw it over a turtleneck and trousers or a slip dress for an easy transitional look.
A crisp shirt is a spring must-have. This striped version works layered under a jumper or styled with wide-leg jeans for a laid-back weekend outfit.
This satin slip skirt feels and looks super luxe but is incredibly versatile. Style it with a chunky knit for cooler days or a sleeveless top and mules when the temperatures climb.
An essential layering piece for modest dressing. This lightweight turtleneck is perfect under dresses, shirts or even tailored suits.
These trousers are the ultimate wardrobe workhorse. Dress them up with heels and a blazer or down with a knit and trainers.
Loafers are having a moment, and this classic pair is equal parts comfortable and stylish. They're ideal for finishing off both tailored and casual looks.
A cardigan that doubles as a top. Wear it buttoned up now or layered over a sleeveless dress as a lightweight outer layer come spring.
A striped Breton top is timeless. Pair it with tailored trousers for a French-inspired look or layer it under a blazer.
Reformation's denim is always a win. The Cary's baggy fit and modest length make them an effortless choice for warmer days.
A waistcoat adds polish to any outfit. Layer it over a shirt or under a blazer for a refined touch.
These flats are a classic that won't date. They're perfect with cropped trousers or flowy dresses.
