American Eagle released a denim hijab, and we’re slow clapping

Somali-American model Halima Aden is not only Allure’s July cover star, but she’s also one of American Eagle’s faces for their new “I Can” denim campaign. In the ad, we see Halima in a denim-heavy outfit with a huge grin on her face, showing off her braces and infectious attitude in one simple photo that also happens to be unretouched.

The photo’s standout fashion piece is the denim hijab, something most of us probably assumed to be a one-off for the shoot. But surprise, it’s not! American Eagle will be selling the denim hijab as an online exclusive, giving Muslim-American women the opportunity to own their style in a new way.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWXt0ZpgDuJ

Not only is this a wonderful step for a mainstream fashion retailer, but it’s also a reminder to fight against the Islamophobia that’s been on high since the election. Everyone deserves to wear pieces that make them feel powerful and confident in their bodies, and everyone deserves to define what empowerment means to them. Who better to capture the essence of this than Halima? In an Instagram post, the model writes,

"Thank you American Eagle for encouraging young America to follow their passions, express their individuality, and pursue their unique paths."

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWg7UcUgf4z

Halima also posted about the denim hijab. For $19.99, this piece is not only chic, but also accessible for young women and girls. Alongside brands like Nike, who released a sports hijab line earlier this year, and Uniqlo, whose modest fashion line finally hit stateside this month, it looks like the fashion industry is finally catching on to the fact that inclusivity is the new black.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWVjkT0AQU6

We’re crossing our fingers that the rest of our favorite retailers follow suit.