Meet the New York blogger whose faith influences her fashion in a positive way
Naomi Nakam gets styling tips from Esther Hyams, a woman who takes her Judaism and style seriously....
Naomi is a freelance features writer
A native of New York City, fashion influencer Esther Hyams
(@fashionnestaa_), who is now based in Hendon, believes her background influences her fashion “in a really positive way”.
“Seeing as I didn’t grow up religious, never in a million years did I think that I would ever dress modestly,” she laughs.
“I consider myself lucky to be an Orthodox blogger in the secular world of fashion, as I am standing up for what I believe in and love. And I hope I’m showing everyone that you can have a great time while still dressing modest.”
As bubbly as the oil in the pan of bamieh (Persian donuts) she is busy frying as we speak, Hyams’ vibrant spirit has attracted her sizeable following, which grew from “collaborating with other brands, meeting new people at fashion events and, of course, always making sure to post new, exciting content”.
Here, Hyams showcases her top picks for this sugary season, from menorah lighting to partying under city lights.
It’s tempting to go low key and dark for winter looks, but just because it’s dreary outside doesn’t mean your outfit has to be! Vibrant statement jewellery can jazz up any boring work blazer, taking you from office to oh-so-glam in an instant. These pearl earrings are really the icing on the cake (or doughnut). Get them now from @statementsonline (£15).
My favourite time of winter is being able to have fun with my outerwear choices, often a dilemma with the many fabulous coats out there. I’ll be wearing this stylish number from @chicwish to Trafalgar Square this year to keep me warm and on point for the annual candle lighting. Matched with an entire outfit purchased from @primark, I hope this is walking proof that comfort and chic can go hand in hand. Talking of which, I always make sure I have a compact mirror – essential with those harsh winter winds wrecking havoc with hair! For a quirky yet practical present, choose one of these compact mirrors from @yesstudio (Wild & Wolf)– a steal at £10 each).
In my opinion, nothing screams winter glam more than showstopping slashes of red. For my Jew-do of choice this year, I’ll be wearing this white jacket from @chicwish (£50) to perfectly set off my little black dress from @primark (£12). Present of choice is this red beret also from @primark (£4), for the ultimate Parisian finish to any outfit.
Check out this number from @imodestcloset, my go-to for that low-key yet fabulous ‘hostess with the mostest’ look. Combine it with a bold belt and you’re good to go for an afternoon of fun, looking fashionable and chic.
Go for a gift with a difference with this great belt from @two12fashion (£25), which will structure and flatter any party dress.
Go on, indulge your sweet tooth with soft pastel knits in pinks purples or baby blue, daring to be different by purposefully clashing shades. I’ve gone for pink, grey and maroon (skirt from @bitzofglitz_uk, toughening up the look with bold block tights and boots. Arm candy is a must, and I’m loving this marble floral rose-gold watch from @oliviaburtonlondon (£72). Just one of many fun flowery designs, the company’s gorgeous collection is top of any Jewish princess’s wishlist.
Earn your stripes this season with this chic combo, ideal for a chill Sunday scoffing sugarladen treats with friends. I’ve paired this simple H&M dress with these fab sunglasses from @amazon (£8) to shield my eyes from any winter rays. This look is perfectly offset with a luxe leather jacket or classic denim. Still feeling the chill? Snuggle up in a statement scarf like this ribbed yellow beauty (@accessorize, was £18, now £14.40).
Sparkle under the city lights in sequins for that ‘extra’ party look in this dress from @topshop (£80). Luxe fabrics are the evening look of the season, so be Maccabee brave and experiment with rich tones of velvet, soft knits and sheer silks. For affluent yet affordable style, I love picking up pieces at Topshop, Mango, John Lewis and H&M. Splash out on that special someone with this cute clutch from @jemmagirlnyc (£120), which adds a much-needed splash of colour to any outfit.
There’s nothing like funky tights to inject any outfit with attitude. My go-to is @zoharatightsuk, which offers a huge selection of shades and designs at reasonable prices. Plus it’s a unique gift
by any ‘stretch’ of the imagination.
Prices vary from £10-20 (www.alterego-lingerie.com/brands/zohara).
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