If you’ve been skulking around Muslim Twitter lately, or anywhere else that’s on the internet you’ll know of the woman who is currently brining hijab into the present fashion conversation. Her photo has been passed along thousands of times. She stands in a doorway in big round movie star shades with wide legged palazzo pants, a pink overcoat, a checkered hijab, and a look that says yes, I am this gorgeous all the time.

The woman’s name is Maria Hidrissi and she is one of the new poster children for H&M’s new conscious clothing line coming out for the fall fashion season.

Now let’s be honest for a moment here. Things like fashion, trendsetting, and dressing like an adult are way above my pay grade. Seriously, last time I got set up on a date with someone I wore a Little Mermaid shirt and I wasn’t doing it ironically.

But this isn’t about fashion for me. I could give two craps about palazzo pants. As far as I’m concerned this is about media representation and that, my friends, is something I can get behind.

yes, I am this gorgeous all the time.

Maria Hidrissi didn’t just model for an ad campaign, she awakened the people. In a simple and quiet way she made others look at a Muslim woman without fear or contempt but with a healthy curiosity. Maria opened a conversation that has always been strained.

Because sometimes, throwing Muslim rage at social issues doesn’t always work. Being super nice doesn’t always work either. But to stand and be noticed, to be accounted for, that’s an example anyone can follow. So we are thankful to Maria Hidrissi for having impeccable taste in clothing and a facial expression that kills. Personally, I hope to see her in more ads for different brands who want to be bold enough to let Muslim women be seen.

And please believe, various clothing brands, that one way or another Muslim women will make themselves seen whether we are invited to the table or not.

Oh also! This just wouldn’t be complete without the mention of how effortlessly creeping sharia is starting to creep even faster. I’m so proud I just might shed a tear. So go forth my little fashionistas to be seen by a world that needs you. May your photos always be fierce and your sharia always creep.

Image via H&M Facebook