Olivier Niyitanga aka Gucci is the founder of Tanga Designs.

The fashion house won the Emerging Designers category award at the recently concluded 3rd edition of Kigali Fashion Week. The pencil thin designer spoke to Stephen Kalimba about his passion for designing clothes.

Tell us about your style

Well, I put on clothes which are out of the ordinary, attire that is bizarre. Such designs show what I do and they are easily noticed by people. I like bright colours, Kitenge prints, and torn jeans among others.

What accessories do you like?

I like shades, especially the round vintage type. I have a small collection and my favourite is Gucci. They really look nice.

What is special about international superstar, Beyonce, in fashion?

She looks great in any attire. For any designer, she brings out their creations.

Which other artiste do you think has a good sense of style?

Usher Raymond also has a unique sense of style. He has looked great from the 90s up to now. Anything he wears rocks.

Do you buy second hand clothes?

Yes. I know a few people who sell good second hand clothes and once in a while I buy from them when they check on me.

Where do you go shopping for other clothes?

I like to import clothes. If I have a friend coming from abroad, I usually ask them to bring me clothes. However, I don’t do it often since I mostly wear my own creations. Designers are not easily impressed with other people’s designs and I think that is one of the reasons they join the fashion industry.

Any fashion advice?

A person should have their own style, what they feel is comfortable. They shouldn’t mind about other people’s opinions.

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