Ysolde Shimwe, 22, needs very little introduction, especially in Rwanda fashion industry. The fashion house that she established together with a long-time friend, Kevin Kagirimpundu, is quickly becoming a household name; having showcased products in local and international shows. She talked to Joseph Oindo about her love for fashion.

Where does your artistic influence come from and when did you start?

My artistic influence comes from my mother. She was an artist in a way she loved flowers, paintings and even made her own dresses, sometimes. I started making clothes when I was still young but it wasn’t really my hobby. I could do it with my mother at her tailor.

Everyone has to start somewhere. What was your first job?

I worked with the National Malaria Control Program in a campaign of distributing mosquito nets. I worked in the field and had an interesting experience.

What was the most memorable challenge?

I never considered it as a challenge but an experience, because every single day that I was in the field served as a lesson to me.

How do you describe your fashions and style?

My style changes every day, because I will dress professional and then change into a t-shirt and a jean. I would describe my style as vintage. I love the 60s, 70s and 80s. And about my fashion sense, for me the important thing is to feel good in what I am wearing, not only comfortable but also happy.  I don’t like showing a lot of skin. I love dresses.

How did you develop your interest in fashion design?

I developed my interest in fashion design when I meet my friend, who is also my partner, Kevine Kagirimpundu, at school and found that we had similar interests. We all had different drawings of pieces that we would like to be produced.

Can you describe the status of fashion design in Rwanda now?

The fashion industry is still on a low level, it cannot be compared with fashion in Europe or in the United States. But there are now new fashion designers opening up their shops and jewelry makers. I believe that the industry will grow and go to international level.

Have you had chance to showcase your designs outside Rwanda?

Yes, I have had a chance to showcase a collection in Uganda, for the Kampala Fashion Intro and also in the United States of America, where my partner was last month. It is a really interesting experience, mostly because there is an advantage of exposure, marketing and networking.

What is it like working for on your own and who is your dream client?

It feels good and makes somebody more responsible. My dream client is one of the known brand ordering tones of cloths or shoes to be sold all over the world.

What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?

What I think is the main key in the fashion industry is to be passionate and being realistic about the customers you are designing for.