Inspired by a deep appreciation for culture and storytelling, renowned designer Tanga, was fascinated by the power of clothing, the way it can enhance confidence and allow individuals to showcase their personalities. The realization that, through design, he could create pieces that not only celebrate cultural narratives but also empower people to express themselves authentically led him to join the fashion industry. Born Olivier Niyitanga, the renowned designer launched Tanga designs in 2014 and it has gone one to become one of the most celebrated brands in Rwanda. ‘Tanga Designs’ derives its name from the Kinyarwanda word “Gutanga”, loosely translated as ‘give’ or ‘share’. ALSO READ: Meet Tanga, a talented young fashion designer In an exclusive interview with The New Times’ Eliane Irakoze, the designer opens up about his fashion choices, style inspiration and the personal philosophy that guides his wardrobe decisions. How would you describe your style? As a designer, I’d describe my style as a blend of cultural storytelling and modern elegance. Each piece I create is an expression of heritage and innovation, with a focus on rich textures, bold silhouettes, and a timeless yet contemporary feel. I aim to craft designs that resonate with authenticity and empower the wearer, blending elements from the past with a vision for the future. Which fashion era or decade has most influenced your current style aesthetic? As a designer, I’m especially inspired by the Renaissance era. Its rich textures, bold silhouettes, and emphasis on craftsmanship resonate deeply with my design philosophy. I love how the Renaissance celebrated individuality and artistry, something I strive to bring into my own work by blending cultural heritage with modern elegance. This era’s spirit of revival and reinvention is what fuels my creative process today. What's the most significant lesson you've learned about personal style? I’ve learned that personal style is all about authenticity and confidence. It’s less about following trends and more about embracing pieces that resonate with who you are and tell your unique story. As a designer, I see style as a form of self-expression, a way to honor your individuality and heritage while feeling empowered in your own skin. What is your favorite brand? Honestly, my favorite brand has to be my own “Tanga Designs.” I’ve poured my heart into every piece, blending my cultural influences with a modern aesthetic, and each design feels like a part of me. I believe in the vision behind Tanga Designs and the story it tells, and I’m passionate about creating pieces that resonate with others on a deep level. While I admire many other brands, my true favorite will always be the one that represents my journey and values most closely. Which fashion icons have shaped your style perspective? Several fashion icons have profoundly shaped my style perspective. First, I draw inspiration from designers like my mother whose ability to blend femininity with androgyny has always resonated with me. Her bold use of color and innovative silhouettes pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion. I also admire figures like Grace Jones for their fearless approach to personal style. Lastly, I look up to contemporary icons like Solange Knowles, who effortlessly mixes cultural elements with modern trends How do you balance staying true to your personal style while keeping up with current trends? Balancing personal style with current trends is about finding harmony between authenticity and innovation. I believe it’s essential to stay true to what resonates with me personally—those elements that reflect my heritage and design philosophy. However, I also recognize that fashion is ever-evolving, and trends can offer fresh perspectives and inspiration. I approach this balance by selectively integrating trends into my work. I’ll often reinterpret a trend through the lens of my aesthetic, ensuring that it aligns with my vision and story. For instance, I might incorporate a trending color or silhouette, but I’ll do so in a way that feels authentic to my brand, Tanga Designs. This allows me to remain relevant while staying connected to my roots and personal style. What is your fashion weakness? My fashion weakness is definitely my love for unique fabrics and textures. I find it incredibly difficult to resist a beautifully crafted material, whether it’s a luxurious silk, an intricate brocade, or a bold print. This passion often leads me to accumulate more fabrics than I actually need, which can be overwhelming at times. I have a soft spot for statement accessories. I believe they can transform an entire outfit, and I love exploring how different pieces can elevate my designs. While it can be a challenge to keep my collection curated, I view these ‘weaknesses’ as strengths that fuel my creativity and inspire my work What outfit can't you go without? There are a few essential pieces I can’t go without, and they truly reflect my personal style. First and foremost, I have a deep love for black outfits. There’s something timeless and versatile about black that allows for endless styling possibilities. My Tanga t-shirt is a staple in my wardrobe. It embodies the spirit of my brand and serves as a canvas for showcasing my designs. I often pair it with different bottoms for a casual yet chic look. I also can’t live without my Tanga bag. It’s not just functional; it represents my journey as a designer and carries the stories behind my work. Any fashion advice? My advice is to embrace your individuality and express what you have authentically. Fashion should be a reflection of who you are, not just what’s trending. I encourage everyone to explore their personal style, experiment with colors, textures, and silhouettes that resonate with your identity and heritage. Don’t be afraid to mix pieces that tell your story; fashion is about celebrating your journey. Also, invest in quality over quantity. What styles should people keep away from? When it comes to fashion, I believe it’s important to curate your style and recognize what doesn’t resonate with you. For me, I steer clear of jerseys and tote bags for everyday wear. Jerseys can feel too casual for most occasions unless you’re actually participating in a sporting event, and I find that tote bags, while functional for shopping, don’t bring that stylish flair I like to embody in my outfits. Fashion should be about expressing your unique style and personality, so it’s perfectly okay to avoid items that don’t align with that vision. Focus on pieces that make you feel confident and elevated, and don’t be afraid to set your own standards for what you want to wear.
