Modal, jersey, bamboo… AMBJAYA's three signature fabrics look similar on paper: soft, pleasant, breathable. But they behave very differently once worn. Here's how to tell them apart and choose the right one for the way you wear your hijab.
What is modal?
Modal is a fibre made from beech wood pulp. Its fine structure gives it a fluid, almost liquid drape and a silky feel. It's a very light fabric, comfortable in summer; our modal hijabs are chosen with a fabric weight that keeps them non-see-through. It doesn't necessarily need pins to stay in place. Our modal hijab guide →
The result: an elegant look with a clean drape, as comfortable for everyday wear as for more dressed-up occasions. It's also one of the easiest fabrics to wear.
What is jersey?
AMBJAYA jersey is 95% cotton (no polyester), knitted into a stretchy fabric. Soft and cosy, with a natural stretch that hugs the shape of the head. It's the best fabric for active days: its firm hold moves with you. Our jersey hijab guide →
Jersey is non-see-through and, above all, very easy to keep in place: the stretch limits slipping throughout the day.
What is bamboo?
Bamboo makes a very soft, light and breathable fabric. Its drape is remarkable: it works beautifully worn draped towards the back, for a look that's both pretty and technical. That fluidity does take a little practice to master. Our bamboo hijab guide →
At AMBJAYA, bamboo is always part of your set: either as the hijab itself (Bamboo range) or in the matching underscarf included in every modal, jersey and bamboo set.
Comparison table: modal vs jersey vs bamboo
| Criteria | Modal | Jersey | Bamboo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Silky, fluid | Cosy, stretchy | Very soft, airy |
| Hold | Fluid, light drape | Stretch, firm hold | Remarkable drape, worn draped back |
| Best for | Elegant everyday wear, summer | Sport, active days | A refined look |
| Good for beginners | Yes | Yes | Takes a little practice |
| Summer / hot weather | Excellent: light and breathable | Very good | Excellent: light and breathable |
| Pins needed | Not necessarily | Rarely | Can help with the drape |
| Care | Hand wash at 30°C | Hand wash at 30°C | Hand wash at 30°C |
Which fabric is best for beginners?
Modal is the easiest fabric to start with: it goes on without any particular technique. Jersey is also very accessible thanks to its stretch. Bamboo takes a little more practice to master its drape. Our full guide: choosing your first hijab →
Which fabric is best for hot weather?
All three fabrics are breathable and far more comfortable than polyester in the heat. Modal is especially popular in summer for its lightness. Bamboo is also light and comfortable in high temperatures. More tips in our hijab for hot weather guide →
Which fabric is the softest?
Bamboo: its softness and low friction make it very comfortable for long days of wear. More on scalp comfort under the hijab →
Which fabric is best for sport and active days?
Jersey, without question. Its firm hold and stretch make it the go-to fabric for a hijab that stays put.
The matching bamboo underscarf: what every set has in common
Whether you choose a modal, jersey or bamboo hijab, one thing never changes at AMBJAYA: every set includes a matching bamboo underscarf in the same shade as your hijab. It's the soft layer between the fabric and your hair, whatever the hijab is made of. Learn more about the hijab with matching underscarf →
FAQ
What's the real difference between a modal and a jersey hijab?
Modal has a fluid, light drape, ideal for summer. Jersey, thanks to its stretch, gives a firmer hold, ideal for active days.
Is modal the same as bamboo?
No. Modal is made from beech wood, bamboo fabric from the bamboo plant. Both are soft and breathable; modal drapes more fluidly, bamboo is softer still. Every AMBJAYA modal set pairs a modal hijab with a bamboo underscarf.
What is a modal hijab made of?
Modal fibre from beech wood pulp. AMBJAYA modal hijabs are 95% modal and 5% elastane.
Are AMBJAYA hijabs see-through?
No, our modal, jersey and bamboo hijabs are non-see-through.
Can you wear modal in summer?
Yes, it's one of the best fabrics for summer thanks to its lightness.
Does a jersey hijab need a separate underscarf?
At AMBJAYA, the bamboo underscarf is included in every set, jersey included: nothing extra to buy.
Which fabric should I choose for my first hijab?
Modal or jersey, because they're the easiest to put on.
Shop modal hijabs with matching underscarf →
Shop jersey hijabs with matching underscarf →
Shop bamboo hijabs with matching underscarf →