Style Story ft. Zainab Faizel aka QueenBae

On this times Style Story I had the absolute pleasure of speaking to Zainab Faiza, who is more commonly known as QueenBae, about her fashion journey and getting a tiny sneak peek into HER Style Story! A well-known figure as a fashion and lifestyle influencer, Zainab has paved the way for many of us to feel comfortable in the clothes we wear! Here’s what she had to say! – Amana Iflal. 

How would you describe your sense of style? 

I’d say it’s very unique and based on my mood for the day! Lately I’ve been obsessed with comfort over anything – so I focus on pieces that are both timeless and comfortable. I don’t necessarily follow trends, because they always come and go. 

Who do you look up to when it comes to style inspiration? 

I don’t specifically look up to anyone when it comes to style – my mum has taught me how to mix and match pieces that can create multiple outfits instead of always buying new clothes so she’s definitely a style inspiration. I love following modest influencers like “WithLoveLeena” “RawDis” along with British influencers like “Mollymae” – I guess I take bits and pieces from anyone – not one person in specific!

Top 5 local brands? 

 Urban Island

  Cotton collection 

  Mimosa 

  Lovi Ceylon 

  Jezza 

Top 5 international brands? 

 Podur UK

 Haute Hijab 

  Dior

  Burberry 

  Nike 

What’s your go to shoe brand and do you prefer heels or flats? 

  I don’t really have a go to shoe brand but I’d say Kurt Geiger because they’ve got some amazing shoes – including fancy ones that aren’t heels. I’m more of a sneakers, boots and flats person. Heels are painful haha 

How do you accessorize? And what kind of accessories do you prefer? 

Lately I’ve been SUPER minimal with my accessories. Just arm candy with gold and silver bangles and cuffs that my friends and loved ones have gifted me. My engagement ring, a Pandora one along with one my mum gifted me! Apart from that it’s a Daniel Wellington watch I’ve been wearing since 2018! That’s about it! 

What kind of bag do you use on a daily basis, and what’s the one thing you MUST have in your bag at all times? 

It’s high time I invest in a new bag!!! But I just prefer my Michael Kors backpack because it’s super convenient when I travel abroad and far. Or else it’s my Guess red or my Aldo Brown side bag for everyday. I always carry; powerbank, headphones, lipstick, hand sanitizer, extra sanitary napkin, and my wallet!

What are your tips and tricks to looking good 24/7?

If you’re putting on a face of makeup, always wear sunscreen before you do and ALWAYS put on a final spritz of setting spray so you remain fresh!. Deodorant is your bestie, so make sure to always use it before you get ready. Carry a mini version of your favorite perfume and lipstick – helps you feel confident with a few sprays and reapplying your lipstick. Always feel confident in whatever you wear! You can make a rag look amazing if you’ve got the confidence 

What is the best advice you could give to a girl who wants to start her own hijabi fashion blog? 

Please stay true to yourself. Don’t falter to the expectations of what society wants. You’re unique on your own and that’s what’s going to get you far. Losing one’s identity is so common because we’re so busy trying to be someone else. Do what you love and work with what you already have – and let everything else unfold in due course! 

As a Hijabi, how do you promote your own sense of fashion in the ever evolving world of international fashion?  

Like I said, I don’t really stick to trends. The thing about trends is that it never lasts, it’s all part of fashion consumption and companies creating unrealistic wants by releasing new lines and “trends” every other day. Each time you fall for it, you’re spending money that makes massive corporations rich while those who actually make your clothes suffer in poverty with horrible wages, working conditions etc. sustainable fashion is more important and buying pieces that will last you and you can create multiple looks out of! I’m not saying don’t shop from fast fashion like H&M or Zara, believe me I love that and it’s mostly what I can afford – however it’s not about always buying pieces just to keep up with international fashion. Create your own statement style and you will be iconic! 

What are some of the top makeup brands you use?

  Dior Makeup 

  Givenchy Beauty 

 Urban Decay 

  Huda Beauty 

  Estée Lauder