Well Groomed | Ikram Abdi Omar
Well Curated shot and spoke to model of the moment Ikram Abdi Omar. A girl of many talents, Ikram studied a degree in biomedical science at Bristol University, has her own YouTube channel and is an international model with campaigns for the likes of Burberry under her belt. She also starred in a Nike swimwear campaign and made fashion history when she appeared on the cover of Vogue Arabia with fellow hijab-wearing models Halima and Amina Aden - a first for Vogue and a groundbreaking step for diversity. We feel so honoured to have worked with Ikram on this editorial for Well Curated.
Photos | Kate Davis-Macleod
Interview | Camilla Hewitt
What does beauty mean to you…
The definition of beauty to me is being wholeheartedly yourself. It has never been about the exterior much, but more about how your heart is to yourself and to others.
Could you tell us about your skincare routine…
For my skincare, I use a 111SKIN cleanser and mask, Synergie Skin Vitamin A and B serums for night and day, Tropic blemish reducing moisturiser and finally The Body Shop SPF50 sunscreen. On top of that, I get facials from Pfeffer Sal to control the condition of my skin .
What are your favourite beauty brands…
My favourite beauty brands have to be NARS, Tom Ford beauty and Valentino beauty.
How would you describe your style…
Comfortable, feminine and urban.
Muslim models are making their mark on the fashion industry with Halima Aden, Amina Adan, Ugbad Abdi and yourself gracing the covers of magazines in modest clothing, you must feel so proud to represent such a positive change…
I do feel proud! I feel that diversity and inclusivity has to be incorporated everywhere because it’s a true representation of the people we encounter in the streets today, and I feel that us women have helped with changing the direction of the fashion industry too.
Who were your biggest role models growing up…
My mother in general and in the fashion industry, I would say the legendary Iman.
What would you say is the biggest misconception about modest dressing?
One of the biggest misconceptions would be that I was forced to wear the headscarf which isn’t the case at all because I chose to wear it. The hijab (headscarf) is an extremely significant thing to me as it stands for religion, modesty and beauty, it shows confidence and is a reminder that I have the choice to dress the way I want.
How were you discovered…
I was discovered by a casting director shopping who then introduced me to Premier, my mother agency.
How do you stay grounded working in such a fast paced industry…
Being surrounded by supportive family and friends helps to keep me grounded.and definitely having designated alone time.