Hijab Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Hijab
The right hijab depends on three things: how much stretch you want, how you like the fabric to drape, and where you'll wear it. This hijab buying guide compares our jersey, modal and chiffon hijabs side by side, using the real sizes and fabric blends from our range, so you can choose with confidence.
Which hijab should I buy? The quick answer
- Easiest wrapNew to wearing a hijab, or want the easiest wrap: a jersey hijab. Jersey has natural stretch, so it wraps easily and needs fewer pins.
- Most coloursWant a soft everyday hijab in lots of colours: a modal hijab. Our Double Stitch range comes in 44 colours.
- Occasion wearWant a lightweight, floaty look for dressier outfits: a chiffon hijab, worn over an under cap.
Jersey vs modal vs chiffon hijabs: comparison
| Range | Fabric | Size | Stretch | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cascade Liquid Jersey | 60% jersey, 30% cotton, 10% silk | 180 x 85cm | Natural stretch | Easy everyday wraps, fewer pins, generous coverage |
| Single Stitch Thai Modal | Modal, spandex and cotton blend (20% spandex) | 185 x 70cm | Extra stretch | A snugger, more secure wrap |
| Double Stitch Thai Modal | 100% modal | 180 x 70cm | Less stretch | A looser, relaxed drape |
| Stripes Chiffon | 100% polyester chiffon | 180 x 75cm | No stretch | Light, floaty drape and dressier looks |
Sizes and blends differ between ranges, so check the Product Details section on each listing before you buy.
Jersey hijabs: best for easy, everyday wear
A jersey hijab is made from a knitted fabric with natural stretch. It wraps around the head easily and holds its shape with fewer pins, which is why many beginners start with jersey.
Our Cascade Liquid Jersey hijabs measure 180cm by 85cm. That extra width gives more coverage and enough fabric for a simple wrap, a tucked style or a loose drape over the shoulders. We also offer other jersey styles, including Soft Stretch, Silora Cotton and Satin Ripple jersey hijabs.
Modal hijabs: soft, with a choice of stretch
Modal is a soft fibre made from wood pulp. Our modal hijabs come in two main constructions, and the difference is mainly how much stretch you want.
What is the difference between Single Stitch and Double Stitch modal hijabs?
Double Stitch hijabs are 100% modal and measure 180 x 70cm, so they have less stretch and a looser drape. Single Stitch hijabs are a modal, spandex and cotton blend with 20% spandex, and measure 185 x 70cm, so they give a snugger wrap.
For texture, try our Crinkle, Dobby, Slub Weave or Textured Lines modal hijabs.
Chiffon hijabs: lightweight and dressy
A chiffon hijab is made from a lightweight woven fabric with a soft, floaty drape. It adds movement to a wrap and works well for weddings, Eid and evening events, as well as everyday outfits.
Chiffon is light and smooth, so most people wear it over an under cap to stop it slipping. Our Stripes Chiffon hijabs measure 180 x 75cm, and we also offer Diamond Premium and Leopard Design chiffon hijabs.
How to choose a hijab for the occasion
- Everyday wear, work and errands: jersey or modal. Both are easy to wrap, and neutral colours match most outfits.
- Weddings, Eid and evening events: chiffon for a floaty drape, or a jersey or modal hijab in a rich colour.
- If you want fewer pins: jersey or Single Stitch modal, because both have stretch.
- If you prefer a loose, relaxed drape: Double Stitch modal or chiffon.
How to choose the right hijab size
Most of our hijabs are 180–185cm long, so the main difference is width. A wider hijab, such as our 85cm Cascade jersey, gives more coverage over the chest and shoulders. A 70–75cm width is lighter and quicker to wrap. The exact size is listed on every product page.
How to choose a hijab colour
If you're building a collection, start with neutrals such as black, cream, grey and beige, because they match almost any outfit. Then add colours for occasions. When wearing an under cap, choose one close to your hijab colour so it stays discreet.
Do you need an under cap?
An under cap keeps hair tucked away and gives your hijab something to grip, so the scarf is less likely to slip. It's most useful with smooth fabrics like chiffon.
- Tube under caps: a simple, stretchy everyday style.
- Ear Free Tube under caps: leave the ears uncovered.
- Tie Back under caps: adjust the fit with ties.
- Full Coverage under caps: extra coverage, also in children's sizes.
- Snap under caps: also in children's sizes.
To finish your look, add hijab pins, clips or hijab magnets for a pin-free hold.
How to care for your hijab
- Jersey and modal: hand wash cold or machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
- Chiffon: hand wash cold with a mild detergent.
- All hijabs: don't bleach, wring or tumble dry. Dry flat or hang away from direct sunlight, and use a cool iron if needed.
Full care instructions are on each product page.
Hijab buying guide FAQs
What is the best hijab for beginners?
A jersey hijab is usually the easiest to start with. Its natural stretch helps it wrap around the head and stay in place with fewer pins. Pairing it with a simple tube under cap adds extra grip.
Which hijab material needs the fewest pins?
Stretchy fabrics need the fewest pins. Jersey and Single Stitch modal both have stretch, so they hold a wrap more easily than chiffon or 100% modal.
Which hijab is best for weddings and Eid?
Chiffon is a popular choice because of its light, floaty drape. Our Diamond Premium chiffon hijabs suit dressier occasions. A jersey or modal hijab in a rich colour also works well.
Do chiffon hijabs slip?
Chiffon is light and smooth, so it can slip without support. Wearing it over an under cap gives it a base to grip and keeps it in place throughout the day.
What size hijab should I buy?
Most of our hijabs are 180–185cm long. Choose a wider hijab, such as an 85cm jersey, for more coverage, or a 70–75cm width for a lighter, quicker wrap.
Can I machine wash my hijab?
Our jersey and modal hijabs can be machine washed at 30°C on a gentle cycle. Chiffon hijabs should be hand washed cold. Always check the care instructions on the product page.
Still not sure which hijab to choose? Email info@alemira.co.uk and we'll help, or read our FAQs for delivery and returns information. You can also browse all hijabs.
Browse all hijabs