On Tuesday in Jakarta, Indonesia, a group of designers exhibited the latest trends in Islamic fashion. Contrary to what most people think of when they hear the words "Islamic dress" -- black, shapeless, long -- these designs really pushed the limits of standard Muslim fashion. While all of the outfits were compliant with Koranic tradition, the clothes also managed to feel stylish and luxurious. Lace, silk and color were omnipresent, and that old standard black was almost nowhere to be seen.Indonesia is actually sort of considered the New York of the Islamic fashion scene. Because the country is mostly occupied by a moderate Sunni tradition, the majority of Indonesian women wear a headscarf with normal western clothes. But according to designer Jeny Tjahyawati, "There are more and more women wearing Muslim fashion to parties. It can provide comfort since it is loose and it can also protect women from perverted men if they walk alone at night."
In countries like Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, which tend to be more traditional and austere, women wear are expected to wear the abaya -- the black cloak that covers them from head-to-toe.