[PHOTOS]: Modernity blends with culture at fashion show

IT was a blend of modernity and culture at the Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show held over the weekend. Local fashion designers showcased a variety of unique designs at the glamorous fashion show on Saturday evening at Sports View Hotel in Remera. The event was a blend of traditional and modernity. (Igihe.com) The show was hosted by fashion enthusiast Peace Kwizera Ndaruhutse. The former Miss Rwandacontestant and author of Oh Rwandan Child, Kwizera entertained the crowd with jokes as she introduced various acts on the stage. Before the runway, Deo Munyakazi gave guests a traditional music treat.The-24-year-old musician belted out some of his popular songs, Ikaze ikibondo, Ngwino urebe, Si impanuka, Twimakaze umuco, and Urakwiriye mwami, among others. Bark cloth costumes were showcased during the Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show. (Igihe.com) After Munyakazi’s performance, it was time for the runway, with Augustin Hakizima showcasing his unique collection. The talented designer took the guests through Rwanda’s beautiful culture. The event did not only showcase the immense talent of local designers, but was also a platform to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage. Kids’ collections were also showcased. (Donata Kiiza) Traditional Rwandan tools like hoes, spears, baskets-Uduseke, and pots were also displayed by the models as they showed how each of these were used in homes during the ancient times and how chores and responsibilities were shared in homes. Kenya fashion designer Vinn Clizz also impressed with her designs of beautiful creations packed with vibrant colours. His outfits are designed for the modern day today people who love their African heritage. A mode dons a female costume inspired from the Nyiginya dynasty in Botswana. (Donata Kiiza) Other local designers, who took part in the show, include Nadege Umutoni, an upcoming designer from N&S creations. She said her designs were inspired by the 1989 Nyiginya dynasty in Botswana. Jossette Umurerwa, who specializes in women’s wear, showcased her designs which had a modern touch from her “Salt” collection. Budding traditional musician Deo Munyakazi, 24, entertains guests at the Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show on Sunday. (Donata Kiiza) Nancy Zeller from USA brought her epoch-defining collections from her “Umva” collection, which she said was made from a locally made fabric in Musanze. She collaborated with local designer Umurerwa to come up with these designs. Celestin Ntawirema, the CEO of Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show, said the show was attended by fashion designers from different countries. Design by local fashion designer Jossette Umurerwa. (Donata Kiiza) The show ended at 9p.m and participants headed to Kabana Club in Kacyiru, where the after party was organised. Although the show registered a low turn up, it was evident that those who attended had value for their time and money considering most of them applauded the designers for the unique and vibrant designs. Former Miss Rwanda contestant and author Peace Kwizera Ndaruhutse was the event’s MC. (Donata Kiiza) Fashion enthusiasts turned up in style for the 4th edition of the Rwanda Cultural Fashion Show at Sports View Hotel. (Donata Kiiza) Kenyan fashion designer Vinn Clizz (centre) showcases his collection. (Donata Kiiza) One of the Odette SCH ltd designs. (Donata Kiiza) editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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[PHOTOS]: Modernity blends with culture at fashion show