Murphy‑based entrepreneur Khansa Khatoon is turning a personal frustration into a technology solution for women who seek modest clothing. After years of wearing the hijab and struggling to find style inspiration that respects her coverage preferences, Khatoon created ALIFF, an artificial‑intelligence stylist that builds outfits from garments women already own.
From Personal Need to AI Innovation
While living in Malaysia, Khatoon realized that existing fashion apps offered little for women who prefer long sleeves, loose‑fitting garments or full coverage. Determined to fill that gap, she began with a logo, an Instagram page and a vision, later entering a pitch competition at EmpowHerCon in Dallas that gave her the confidence to move forward.
Despite having no technical background, Khatoon taught herself AI terminology, partnered with offshore developers and designed a “modesty matrix.” The matrix is a set of styling rules that considers sleeve length, garment type, hijab style and varying levels of coverage, acknowledging that modesty is a spectrum rather than a single standard.
How ALIFF Works
ALIFF scans a user’s existing wardrobe, then suggests complete outfits that align with the individual’s coverage preferences, body type, color palette and personal style. The app launched on iOS and Android in July 2026 and has already surpassed 640 downloads.
Early metrics are encouraging. Sign‑ups rose 53% from August to September, and more than 40% of trial users reported saving an outfit they liked. Khatoon emphasizes that trust is essential, as users share personal wardrobe details. “That trust has to be earned,” she says.
Challenges and Learning
During beta testing, the AI struggled to recognize the traditional South Asian shalwar kameez, misidentifying the kameez as a tunic or dress and missing the coordinating trousers. The mistake highlighted how technology can overlook cultural nuances in clothing. “I can’t build this product based on my own experience alone,” Khatoon noted. “I need to listen to women across different cultures and backgrounds.”
Local Roots, Broader Vision
Based in Murphy, Khatoon says the diversity of North Texas’s Muslim community has been instrumental in shaping ALIFF’s development. “I’ve seen some of the most fashionable women here,” she says, noting that modest fashion looks different on every woman.
Looking ahead, Khatoon hopes to expand beyond North Texas, connecting with women through community events and making modest styling more accessible nationwide. “I want ALIFF to become part of her everyday routine, something she reaches for when she’s getting dressed,” she explains. Her ultimate goal is global reach, concluding with optimism: “ALIFF will go global, Inshallah!”
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
