When it comes to unconventional, colorful outfit styling, Basra Ajeh (@itsbasra) is queen. I first came across her profile through my explore page on Instagram, and I think I stared at her photo for a good five minutes just to take it all in. Her expressive babushka hijab style, stunning facial features, in-your-face mix of patterns and textures and quirky posing all made my heart smile.

This had to be what falling in love at first sight feels like! I decided to chronicle her style by saving her in my “favorites” for this special feature. I reached out to Basra to ask her how she would describe her style. She says, “I would describe my style as ‘eclectic’ and very colorful. I really like to either color block my outfits a lot or wear a monochrome look.”

As we move past fall into winter, it’s tempting to live in cozy blacks and greys. That’s fine. But if you’d like to shake things up a bit, why not experiment with Basra’s “quirky vintage” (that’s what I’m calling it!) style? Basra is one-of-a-kind, so you’ve got to be Basra to BE Basra, you know what I mean? But here are five tips to help you tap into your eclectic side: Use them all, or try a couple to dip your toes into this fun “quirky vintage” style.

Basra is not afraid to wear bright colors head to toe. She says, “Don’t be afraid to play with colors!! I feel like a lot of hijabis tend to play it safe and only stick to neutrals. Pastels and bright colors are my go-to!” You might be thinking that these colors are just for spring/summer, but Basra shows us that her colorful personality is year-round. Here are three examples of how Basra wears color. (Scroll through the gallery.)

Try these HH's for similar looks:

HH Petal Square Chiffon | Geo Canvas Printed Square Chiffon | Autumn Equinox Printed Square Chiffon

Basra is also a self-proclaimed “big sneaker fan!” She says, “I almost exclusively wear sneakers with all my outfits, mostly for comfort, but also because they look super cool and can come in lots of different color-ways.” I agree that when it comes to versatility with color and style, a comfortable sneaker is the way to go.

As a Chicagoan, I grew up calling these “gym shoes” and never thought I would ever find myself calling them sneakers, but here we are. You don’t always have to be headed to the gym to wear them – they look super cute with a feminine dress or skirt or a pair of jeans. Scroll through the gallery to see some of her sassy sneaker pairings!

Try these HH's for similar looks:

Biscay Blue Square Chiffon | Glow Up Printed Square Chiffon | Leopard Luxe Printed Square Chiffon

This hijab style really sets Basra apart. Although this hijab style has recently become trendy, there are very few who actually own it, and Basra is one of them. I could not fathom a better style to fit her fun, unapologetic fashion persona. She says, “In terms of my hijab, there was a time I used to only wear black hijabs. But over the last four years I’ve grown to love hijabs in different colors & patterns. My go-to scarf material is definitely silk, and I always wear it in the “babushka” style.”

Basra has really come into herself beautifully in the past four years, and it shows! You can achieve similar looks with HH satin and chiffon hijabs, but be sure to get them in the square size! Scroll through the gallery to see three of her gorgeous babushka hijab looks.

Try these HH's for similar looks:

Watercolor Heaven Printed Square Chiffon | Lady Luxe Printed Square Chiffon | Evergreen Satin Square Hijab

As a thrift store enthusiast myself, I recognized that Basra loves a good thrift store to find unique pieces to mix in with trendier, contemporary pieces. Thrift stores can offer items that age a look just enough to make it mature. But when mixed with youthful pieces, the balance is just right.

You can also find uniquely shaped or oddly-proportioned pieces at the thrift store or colors that are not currently in season. “I do thrift a lot and I feel like that makes my outfits stand out a bit more, as you can usually find unique pieces at thrift stores,” she says. “I don’t shop from anywhere specific, so I would say you can shop for my style anywhere. It’s honestly more about how you put the pieces together that makes the biggest difference.” I agree!

Try these HH's for similar looks:

On the Move Printed Square Chiffon | Orchid Splash Printed Square Chiffon | One Thousand Nights Printed Square Chiffon

Basra says it best when she advises those of us hoping to achieve her style: “Even if the colors and patterns ‘clash,’ just go for it and have fun.” Let loose and stop thinking too much about it! If you love it, wear it – and then own it with your attitude. Here’s a pro tip that can help you to mix your patterns seamlessly: Wear different patterns of the same color palette as Basra does in this pink look, black-and-white look and purple look. Scroll through the gallery to see how Basra mixes patterns within a color palette.

Try these HH's for similar looks:

Pink Maple Printed Square Chiffon | Chasing Pavements Printed Square Chiffon | Young Love Printed Square Chiffon

If you try any or all of these styling tips to dress more like the queen of “quirky vintage,” let me and Basra know in the comments below! You might be shocked to find out that you’re in love with your eclectic side!