Style: Style for all seasons

How to stay dry and chic Unlike a popular saying in English that “smartness has no weather”, some people still defend themselves saying that they can’t be trendy due to unpredictable weather. Let’s face it; when the weather gets colder some people will only make an effort when they think it really matters, say at a wedding or party. But fashion-conscious people, will keep their sense of fashion never mind the weather because its part and parcel of their daily living. Anne Bariyo, a businesswoman in Kigali’s commercial centre, said people should simply differentiate what to wear when it’s hot and when it’s cold. “Trouble is, now the weather is just so unpredictable. It throws conventional patterns out of the window,” says Bariyo. In Rwanda, December and January tend to bring lots of rain. The question is how do we continue looking stylish? Patrick Nahabo, a geography teacher at Kagarama SSS, says that as weather patterns change, new styles will emerge to satisfy the demands of all-weather clothing. “I think we may move towards more layered clothing in the winter, rather than soft clothing as we seem to favour now.” Rita Kabandana, a student at Kigali School of Finance and Banking (SFB) says, “I know how to deal with unpredictable weather. I always carry a chic tiny umbrella in my bag and a huge neck scarf. Despite of the rain, I can still look chic.” Indeed, there’s no reason why you can’t maintain your personal style and still brave the crowds and unpredictable weather with confidence! “You don’t have to worry about the weather, but instead how to stay trendy,” says Alex Kamanzi, a finalist at Kigali Health Institute (KHI). Raincoats for one have never been more stylish. The fabulous trench coat is a must – light weight but protective. When thinking about your rainy season wardrobe, think shoes and jackets. If you find yourself irritated because beautiful summer weather is becoming something of a rarity, no more shorts, tank tops or sandals, the best tip anyone can give you and you should always accept is to buy yourself a good coat or jacket. Always remember it should combine with your personal style, your body and your comfort on the colder season. Hoodie jackets, ponchos and trench coats offer stylish answers to cold, wet weather. Shoes should be closed toe and ready to combat puddles. Boots are ideal and can look great with trousers, skirts and dresses. Unlike girls, boys may find it easier to cope with the possibility of muddy conditions. Shorts or three-quarter length trousers enable you to keep cool if it’s warm and sunny, and you’ll also find it easier to keep your clothes dry if the rain begins to create mud streams. T-shirts are a must, while jumpers are essential for the colder evenings if you don’t want to catch a nasty cold. In Rwanda, when you expect sun, it rains. And when you wrap up warm, the heat rises. But remember, there’s no excuse not to look your best at all times. Contact: lindaonly@yahoo.com