Kitenge: The in thing for bridesmaid dresses

Although it is popular that most bridesmaids’ dresses in Kigali are for hire, these days, the bride gives her bridesmaids the option of making their own outfit with similar designs as long as the colour doesn’t clash with the wedding theme colours. If one is to attend a wedding in Kigali, they should not be shocked to see bridesmaids in dresses made of Kitenge (African fabric). As a matter of fact, it is getting quite trendy. The Kitenge fabric does not only make the bridesmaids stand out, it kills the monotony of chiffon dresses that are usually designed with a specific colour. Besides the Kitengi being colourful and vibrant, it’s also viewed as a way to localise the event, or as some would say, giving it the African touch. Naleli Rugege, a fashion designer with The Marion Kigali, a fashion house that makes custom made garments, says that the amount she charges for the bride and bridesmaids outfits depends on the convolution of the design and the fabric used. Regarding the current use of Kitenge fabric for bridesmaids’ dresses she says: “I think it’s great that people are embracing and incorporating an African look into their wedding. And hopefully in the future, traditional fabric will be viewed as a classic addition to clothing rather than a trend.”