Halima Aden quits runway modelling over religious views

American model Halima Aden says she is quitting runway modelling as it compromises her religious beliefs.

She added that problems came from there being a "lack of Muslim women stylists" within the industry who could understand why wearing a hijab was so important.

A post shared by Halima Somali (@halima).

She was spotted by international modelling agency IMG Models at 18 while appearing in the Miss Minnesota USA pageant as a semi-finalist.

She was the first woman to wear a hijab in the pageant and soon became known for bringing a modest dress code to the world's most famous fashion week shows.

In her Instagram Stories, she praised Rihanna for letting her wear the hijab she wore to set.

She says she's compromised her religion many times as part of her job - including missing prayer times set out in the Islamic faith or agreeing to model without a hijab on, using another item of clothing to cover her head.

playUS-Somali model Halima Aden: 'My hijab is my crown'.

playHalima Aden: Modesty is the oldest fashion staple.

playSomali refugee Halima Aden on making it as a hijabi model?

Halima Aden quits runway modelling over religious views1