Carine Bazupira a.k.a Mimi is an actress with The Ebonies, a renowned drama group based in Uganda. She has been with the group for five years under her stage name Rukia. 

The actress is also a fashion designer, singer and dancer. The 31-year-old spoke to Society Magazine’s Doreen Umutesi about her love for pearls and why she doesn’t like showing off her legs.

How would you describe your dress sense?

It depends; for instance when performing, I design most of my attire and I always complete the look with pearls. I love pearls.

When I’m off stage, I don’t like dressing up in clothes that show my legs. In most cases when I wear short clothes, I wear body stockings; it’s not that I have anything against my legs; I just don’t feel comfortable showing off too much skin.

What’s your favourite clothing item?

As a fashion designer, it’s hard to say I have a favourite clothing item. But I feel more comfortable if I’m in a long dress, especially similar to a Hijab but made out of cotton. I wear trousers but on a few occasions.

Where do you shop for clothes?

I always use the opportunity when I travel to shop. But of course that can’t stop me from buying an outfit when I come across something nice while walking around town.

What do you consider when shopping clothes?

First of all I consider the colour. It has to blend with my complexion. I love bright colours. I also have a habit of buying an outfit and I change its design to suit my taste. I think it’s a fashion designer trait.

What is your favourite fashion accessory?

It’s hard to single out a specific thing because I can’t walk out of the house without a bag, jewelry or a scarf. I’m sorry I can’t let go of any of these items.

What is your favourite clothing item on a guy?

I really love a guy with good taste in clothes. For instance, I don’t mind a guy who wears a nice shirt, pairs it with nice jeans and casual shoes. He will definitely catch my eye. I really hate guys who wear sagging pants.

What’s your favourite scent?

My favourite scent is Cinema, a product of Yves Saint Laurent. It has a mild scent. I have used it for the last 11years.

What is the most expensive fashion accessory in your wardrobe and what led you into buying it?

The most expensive thing I have in my wardrobe is a dress that was given to me by my sister. It’s a Victoria secret dress which she bought at $800 two years ago. I have only worn it twice.

Any fashion advice?

In general, you need to know your taste to wear what is appropriate. Everyone has a specific fashion sense but it does not kill to copy. We can learn each passing day from other people. But always copy fashion that is worth it.

doreen.umutesi@newtimes.co.rw