Fashion is about loving yourself, says Uwimbabazi

Odile Uwimbabazi is a filmmaker and the vice president of Cine femme-Rwanda. Cine Femme is a local organisation that equips Rwandan women with skills to reach their full potential in filmmaking. The 28-year-old spoke to Society Magazine’s Doreen Umutesi about weight issues and style. How would you describe your dress sense? The truth is that I have put on a little weight of late and I’m no longer comfortable with my dressing. I have started going to the gym so as to keep fit and lose some weight. Now I wear mostly jeans and t-shirts. What’s your favourite clothing item? Anything that is comfortable is okay. Each time I want to feel smart, I find myself wearing dresses made of African print (Kitenge). I can say that Kitenge dresses are my favourite clothing item. Where do you shop for clothes? I don’t have a specific place. But I have a thing for second hand clothes, especially jeans and shoes, so I usually go to Nyabugogo. I take my time and choose only the best. What do you consider when shopping clothes? Two things are considered when I’m shopping; the first thing is comfort and then individuality. I’m always cautious about the way I will look in an outfit because I’m not very confident about my body shape. Another thing I consider when shopping is the brand. I always check out the name of the designer of an outfit I’m buying. My favourite brands are Chloé and Tommy Hilfiger. What is your favourite fashion accessory? Shoes and handbags. They always bring out the best in an outfit. What is your favourite clothing item on a guy? Shoes. I don’t know why but each time I look at a guy, somehow my eyes go down to see his shoes. If his shoes are classy and they blend with his outfit, he is stylish and it says that he took his time to choose the right shoes for the outfit. What’s your favourite scent? Estée Lauder perfume is my favorite scent because it has a mild scent. What is the most expensive fashion accessory that you own in your wardrobe and what led you into buying it? The most expensive fashion item that I have is a gift from my husband. It’s a handbag. I prefer not to mention the price. (She laughs). Any fashion advice? Fashion is about loving yourself and how much you want people to value your look. Everyone should know what suits them. I believe we all have a unique fashion sense.