From Secular to Tzniut: Giulia’s Transformation and Journey to Modesty

@anavaparis Guilia trying on the Ella set with the Gaia swim skirt in Olive. Shes wearing a size S 💚🥑🫒🍈#modestfashion #modestoutfits #modestactivewear #modestsportswear #modestwear #modestoutfit #modestskirts #modestsportskirt #tzniutswimsuit #tsnioutswimwear #tzniutswim #tzniutswimsuit #tsnioutactivewear ♬ MILLION DOLLAR BABY (VHS) - Tommy Richman

1. What’s your name and where do you live?
My name is Giulia, and I live in Tel Aviv.

2. Why are you dressing modestly? Is it for religious reasons or something else? 
My tzniut (modesty) is not perfect, but I do it for religious reasons. I want to be prepared for the coming of the Mashiach, so if he comes tomorrow, I won't feel ashamed. It's also a social statement; when people see me with something on my head, they know I’m religious and a married woman. Additionally, as a Tel Avivian, I'm proud to show that I am part of a religious community.

3. Have you always dressed modestly? If not, what made you change?
No, I haven't always dressed modestly. I grew up in a secular environment and discovered tzniut at the age of 15-16 when I came to Israel. After that, I decided to embrace it fully at 19-20 years old for about three years. Then, I stopped abruptly and went back to wearing jeans, crop tops, and little dresses. However, I always thought that if I got married, I would return to modest dressing. When I met my husband, it felt natural, and after October 7th, I decided it was a good reason to be fully committed. I got married in March, so now I cover my head every day.

4. What challenges have you faced dressing modestly and now covering your hair?
The heat is a big challenge, especially this year in Israel. Also, I really miss the comfort of wearing pants.

5. What’s your favorite way of covering your hair so far?
Most of the time, I wear it in a bandana style with some hair showing, but with the current heat, it's no longer feasible. Now, I change my head covering style every day.

6. How is it to dress modestly during summer or at the beach? Is it challenging? What are your best tips for hot summer weather?
Of course, it’s challenging. When I was seeing women in burkinis, I used to think that it must be very uncomfortable at the beach. It was important for me to find swimsuits made with real swimsuit fabric so I can swim properly, feel cute and comfortable.

7. How did you learn about Anava?
I learned about Anava through Instagram.