The Birth of Nabaya: Revolutionising Breastfeeding Fashion for Muslim Mothers in the UK
Natasha Syed
Where Modesty Meets Motherhood – A New Chapter in Ethical, Elegant Design
In a landscape where fashion often overlooks the nuanced needs of Muslim mothers, a new brand is stepping forward with both purpose and style. Nabaya—a name that blends the spirit of the traditional abaya with a forward-thinking ethos—is on a mission to transform how Muslim women experience breastfeeding, blending modesty, elegance, and sustainability in every stitch.
Founded in London by mother and entrepreneur Maryam Saleemi, Nabaya is a women-led brand created by a mum, for mums. What began as a personal challenge—navigating breastfeeding in traditional attire—has grown into a full-fledged fashion label designed to empower mothers across the UK and beyond.
“Nabaya is about more than just fashion,” says Maryam. “It’s about empowering women during a critical and beautiful phase of their lives.”
A New Era of Abayas
Nabaya reimagines the classic abaya with a contemporary twist, chic silhouettes tailored with the practical needs of breastfeeding mothers in mind. The brand’s debut collection, launched earlier this year and, features three exclusive, made-to-order styles, available in a selection of soft, universally flattering tones including Khaki Green, Light Powder Pink, and Peach.
Each design is thoughtfully crafted using 100% Tencel fabric, a luxuriously soft, eco-friendly material—paired with breathable jersey panels at the chest for comfort and discretion during feeding. Thoughtful details like elasticated or rollable sleeves, deep functional pockets, and buttons made from natural milk casein, gentle, non-toxic, and safe for babies—elevate these abayas far beyond typical maternity wear. On the Aiysha Nabaya, rollable sleeves are made even more practical with hidden buttons sewn into the shoulder panel, connected by a discreet string, making it incredibly easy to roll and secure the sleeves as needed.
Sustainable Style That Speaks Volumes
At its core, Nabaya champions conscious fashion. From production to packaging, every element of the brand is underpinned by sustainability. Each dress is made from Tencel, a luxuriously soft fabric derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, offering both comfort and a lower environmental impact. Orders arrive in plastic-free, biodegradable packaging, further reflecting the brand’s commitment to a zero-waste mission.
“We want mothers to feel good about how they look—but also about the environmental choices they’re making,” Maryam adds.
Real Mums, Real Representation
Nabaya celebrates motherhood in all its diverse, unfiltered beauty. Rather than opting for models, the brand spotlights real mums with their children, making authenticity a hallmark of its identity.
“It was essential for us to represent real women, those juggling motherhood, work, and faith. We want every woman who wears Nabaya to feel beautiful, celebrated, and empowered,” says Maryam.
With prices ranging from £99.99 to £125, each piece from Nabaya is available to order via their official website, www.nabaya.co.uk. Whether you’re a new mum, expecting, or simply seeking elegant modest wear designed with care, Nabaya offers a fresh, fashion-forward approach to one of motherhood’s most intimate journeys.
Nabaya isn’t just a brand. It’s a movement—celebrating strength, style, and the sacred journey of motherhood.
