Wearing hijab like you mean it – the theme and crux of this introspective period we are in at Haute Hijab this month (and honestly, it’s always something we think about here) – means many things to the women we serve and how we at HH work to serve those needs.

It means understanding our struggles – both physically with the actual wearing of hijabs and making sure we equip you with the best hijabs and accessories that we can and mentally/spiritually – by delving deep into our stories, feelings, joys, frustrations around hijab and what it means to be a Muslim woman as a whole.

With this in mind, we’ve been asking you questions on Instagram to gain more insight into what you love about wearing hijab, what you struggle with, and where we can help you. It’s been an affirming, eye-opening, beautiful, cathartic, painful, grateful and emotional experience for us. We hope it’s been that for you as well.

So – what’s your favorite part about wearing hijab? What makes you smile and gives you joy? Check out what 18 of you had to say! And come back to the blog to engage with us on some harder conversations around some of the challenges many of you in our communities shared when it comes to their hijab journey.

1. I had cancer at one point in my life and I was young and the hijab allowed me to cope privately.

2. The identity and confidence boost I get plus people know who I am!

3. It keeps my vanity in check and reminds me of my identity and purpose in life.

4. No bad hair day ever and the respect that I get from others. The way hubby looks at me now!

5. The feeling of protection and belonging to Islam.

6. Being recognized by other Muslimahs and the respect that I receive from most individuals.

7. I love hijab because it is me. The little girl me. The core me. And it is the bond between me and Allah (S).

8. Favorite part: I can pray anywhere anytime.

9. Everyone who sees me knows I am Muslim before they even know my name.

10. Makes me feel powerful and confident.

11. The smile you give to other hijabis when you see them on the street, recognizing them as a sister.

12. I love maintaining my modesty in a world that begs you to give it away.

13. It makes me feel beautiful and I attract like-minded people. It’s just an energy hijab exudes!

14. I feel protected, Alhamdullilah. I don’t struggle. Everything I do, I do for Allah (S).

15. Wearing the gorgeous prints and fabrics from HH is the best!

16. My favorite part is that I’m pleasing Allah (S) Almighty, the inner joy I feel knowing He is most pleased.

17. I feel so free wearing hijab! I feel I can be my most authentic self wearing it!