African print: Traditional meets modern

With local designers making fascinating collections of fashion accessories such as earrings, handbags, bangles, necklaces and even shoes using African print, most women have fallen in love with the trend and are now accessorising with these colourful and traditional pieces. Vanessa Ishimwe, a model, says she is in love with African print and finds it incomplete if she doesn’t finish her look with a touch of African fabric. “Productsmade from African fabric are cool; they make me feel elegant. I prefer wearing dresses and accessorising them with a clutch or earrings made from Kitenge fabric,” says Ishimwe. She says the print speaks volumes when it comes to valuing our tradition and homemade products. Joseph Habimana, a handbag designer,also makes bangles and earrings from Kitenge fabric in Kimironko Market. He says that with African fabric, one can never be out of style, and that it can be worn any where. “When accessorising with the fabric, there are unlimited ways of doing it; for instance, one can go for smaller accessories during formal occasions, and opt for bold and larger ones for informal occasions,” he says. He, however, advises that to be truly unique and fabulous, one should opt for something that ‘stands out’ but decent. “Jewellery from local fabric is trendy; it is not only stylish but is also a great enhancement to any outfit,” says Anita Ntusarare, a budding fashion designer inBiryogo market in Nyamirambo. She adds that for chunky jewellery, one should go light with the print as ‘you don’t want to have too much going on’ at the same time. If the print is bold, go for light jewellery and a simple bag. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

Lifestyle

African print: Traditional meets modern