MARIE Louise Uwizeyimana, an editor at Intego, a Kinyarwanda newspaper, won the journalist of the year award in 2013. The recently elected second vice chairman of the Rwanda Journalist Association spoke to Doreen Umutesi about decent dressing and how her line of work influences her style.

How would you describe your fashion sense?

My dress sense is greatly influenced by my work. Besides being an editor, I go to the field to cover stories. As a female journalist the most comfortable clothes for work are jeans. I also wear flat shoes most times for field assignments. For special events like cocktails or parties, I prefer long outfits. If its nota suit, it will be a long dress or a long skirt with a tight top. 

What’s your favourite clothing item?

I have one specific dress that I love; it is the dress that I wore during the Journalism Development Awards in 2013. I just love the way the tailor made it perfect for my body. 

Where do you shop for clothes?

I don’t have a specific place where I shop. I will walk into any boutique if they have something I like and buy it. I also shop when I travel.

What do you consider when shopping clothes?

The first thing is the colour, fabric, fitting and the price. As long as I wear the outfit and it looks good on me, and I can afford, I will definitely buy it. 

Your favourite fashion accessory?

I love bags. I never feel comfortable walking out of the house without a handbag.  There is something about a handbag, in a way it actually brings out the best in an outfit.

What is your favourite clothing item on a guy?

Honestly speaking, I love a guy in a fitting suit. They look smart and neat. However, I can’t stand a guy dressed in a sagging suit. 

What’s your favourite scent?

My favourite scent would be Naomi Campbell Cat Deluxe. My first encounter with this amazing perfume, it was a present given to me by a friend and from that day on, it’s the only perfume I wear. I love it because its scent is mild and welcoming at the same time.  

Any fashion advice?

My advice is very simple; always wear something that is not offensive. Wear something that fits you and is a head-turner for the right reasons. There is nothing as bad as leaving the house wearing something and wherever you pass, people stare in disgust wishing there was a way they could tell you to go back home and change. You can be trendy but smart and decent.