Lisa B Marler is an American interior designer who specialises in kitchen and bath. She recently launched an interior design magazine called H Magazine which aims at supporting and guiding designers, architects and contractors in Rwanda. She spoke to Doreen Umutesi about her fashion sense.

 How would you describe your dress sense?

I strive for what all women do: an expression of self combined with comfort. None of us have perfect bodies, and in my case I’m short with a round figure. I got into a habit of wearing pants for comfort but my husband likes me in dresses and skirts, so I’m working on finding a balance.

What’s your favourite clothing item?

Prior to moving here I lived in San Francisco for over 20 years. I wore black and carried a black leather coat with me everywhere because at some point in the day, I would need it. Today, my style is changing. I’m adding colour to my wardrobe and using white, not black, as a base. Still, I love my jeans. I’d be hard pressed to give those up no matter where I live.

Where do you shop for clothes?

My favourite designer is probably Eileen Fisher. The clothing is casual but professional. It’s also creative with so many asymmetrical pieces, but those are matched with clean lines in skirts and pants. Here, I’m finding that there are so many good designers and I work with them to design my clothes. There is a lot of talent here.

What do you consider when shopping clothes?

Obviously, you want clothes that make you feel good about yourself. We talk about expressing yourself, but that can be many different things. Do I want to feel attractive? Do I want to look like a serious professional? If you’re a woman, these are challenges that are much harder than it is for men. Of course, the price has to be right too!

What is your favourite fashion accessory?

Bags. I love bags. Kate Spade is a favourite, I like her whimsy. But, I also love overnight bags and totes, the bigger the better. I have a great pair of Dion Grossman sunglasses in purple; I wear them all the time. Most jewelry designed by Lori Bonn, I have quite a few pieces thanks to my husband and friends. Oh, did you say just one thing? Who can choose just one? And thank goodness we don’t have to.

What is your favourite clothing item on a guy?

Tight pants! Seriously, I think I like a finely tailored suit. Something about the clean lines and elegance just works for me.

What’s your favourite scent?

I have used Shalimar for about 30 years now.

Any fashion advice?

Explore! It’s very easy to settle into a routine and get complacent as I certainly did. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to explore different looks for yourself. Just play around with different colors and styles. My husband is always pushing me to try new things, which at first I resist. Then I give in because, after all, he’s the one I most want to impress. And sometimes he’s even right.