Instead of deleting the video, Alya collaborated with her grandmother. Her next viral hit featured her grandmother’s old Batik patterns
The meaning of the hijab in Indonesian society has transformed dramatically over the past few decades. Instead of deleting the video, Alya collaborated with
Indonesian designers are at the forefront of reinterpreting the hijab. For example, the "Sanggul Hijab Jawa," created by Shinta Ayu from Yogyakarta, is an innovation that combines a traditional Javanese bun ( sanggul ) with a modern hijab style. Made from lightweight materials to mimic a hair bun without violating Islamic law against hair extensions, it allows Muslim women to wear traditional Javanese attire modestly. This creation, which went viral and was even the subject of a national seminar, exemplifies how local wisdom can be revitalized through religious fashion. For example, the "Sanggul Hijab Jawa," created by
Conversely, many young women view the trend as a form of agency. It allows them to redefine modesty on their own terms, blending their religious identity with creativity, humor, and digital literacy. Conversely, many young women view the trend as
This commercialization has desacralized the hijab for many traditionalists. When a woman flashes a "Shopee link" in her bio after a "Hijab Sama" video, the religious act becomes a transaction. Critics argue that this is the ultimate corruption of Islamic values—using a symbol of faith to sell eyeliner and shawls.
However, the backlash was immediate and vicious. Critics on social media accused participants of (pretending to be pious) and reducing a profound religious obligation to a mere fashion accessory.