Colombe Ituze Ndutiye

Colombe Ituze Ndutiye is a 23 year old fashion designer, the proprietor of INCO Icyusa, one of the first actively working fashion labels in Rwanda; Inco is a house that encompasses traditional and modern styles. Martin Bishop had a chat with about her fashion label and much more.When did you realize you wanted to be a fashion designer ?Ever since I was old enough to hold a pencil. I have been drawing outfits since I was 6, it’s just my passion. What was it like telling your family that this is what you wanted to do ?Convincing my parents that I wanted to be a fashion designer wasn’t easy, At first it was very awkward, but they later they realized that, that’s what I loved and what I wanted to focus on. Now like every good parent, they support me in every possible way. What makes a good fashion designer?It’s a combination of many traits, first is the creativity, the will to take criticism and perseverance. A good designer is a person who is able to make unique never seen before clothes and must have a good artistic taste and touch and of course technical skills.Where do you get inspiration to create unique designs?I avoid as much as I can taking inspiration because I find it restricting and non-original. I prefer creating from scratch, simple and beautiful things I’d like to wear myself. Stuff just comes to me. Do you have a specific type of woman in mind when you sit down and sketch a garment?When I create a collection, I start with a theme, rather than designing for a specific woman. Within that theme, I design dresses that appeal to a range of feminine personalities.What drew you to women’s fashion? Have you ever thought about designing for men?Yes, I’ve thought about menswear and I am planning to start designing them real soon. Who is your legendary favorite?I like Louis vuittonWhat’s your favorite color, in the Industry?Black and white