Joanna Keza Bagwire was crowned Miss Heritage during the search for Miss Rwanda 2015 early this year. The 19-year-old has just completed high school and is using her position to work on different projects, including a TV show that is yet to be aired called Mirror Show. It will focus mostly on the youth and hopefully will be launched in May this year. The beauty queen spoke to Donah Mbabazi about her fashion preferences.

How would you describe your dress sense?

I love wearing outfits that bring out that feminine aspect, like skirts, especially the high waist skirts. I also like wearing short dresses but I don’t like pants,irrespective of whether they are jeans.

Sensual or elegant, what do you prefer?

That would depend on where I am going.If it’s an event that is special, I would go for elegant, and that means wearing a classy outfit with high heels, which I love by the way. But for other days, I can play around with both sexy and elegance.

What do you like to shop for the most?

I shop for skirts mostly and I definitely go for the stylish ones. They are among the things I love wearing most because I believe they make me look classy. I also love shopping for make-up, especially that which is made in Italy.

What do you consider when you’re shopping for clothes?

When I go for shopping, I buy items I love. But sometimes, I go for things that are trending. Sometimes I spot items in fashion magazines and go look for them or even something similar.

How often do you shop for clothes?

When I see something I like I buy it. I don’t usually have specific days for shopping. When I notice a style I like, I buy it or go to a tailor to have it made for me.

Describe the most expensive item that you own

I mostly spend on shoes and handbags. Not that I buy them often, but I have an aunt who travels a lot so she brings me items, especially from Dubai.

Who inspires you in fashion?

There is no one in particular.Though I participated in a beauty pageant, I’m not that into fashion. But sometimes I love what some celebrities wear, for example, there are dresses that Kim Kardashian wears that I fancy.Sometimes I look for that particular style or something similar.

What’s your favourite fashion trend for guys?

I love the gentleman look;the whole fitting shirt and pants thing. I think a guy commands more respect when he dresses like that. Jeans do not capture my attention;like I said, I am not a fan.

What would you wear on a date?

For a serious date, I would wear a nice, short, fitting dress with high heels and fine jewelry.

Any fashion advice?

Girls should always consider their dignity; trending stuff shouldn’t control how they dress. Go for a style you like but don’t neglectyour personality.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw