What we wear is more than just fabric, it’s a reflection of who we are. Fashion shapes our identity, boosts our self-confidence, and influences how others perceive us. Whether bold and expressive or simple and classic, our clothing choices are closely linked to our emotions and sense of belonging, according to psychologists and designers. Fashion is not just about trends, but a way to express individuality while fitting into society. As styles evolve, they help define our personal identity and influence our interactions with others. Our fashion choices communicate personality, values, and aspirations often without us saying a word. ALSO READ: Untapped potential: How can Rwanda’s fashion industry fully leverage international market? Olivier Niyitanga, alias Tanga, owns a renowned clothing line known as Tanga Designs. He sheds light on the powerful role fashion plays in defining us and shaping how others perceive us. According to Tanga, clothing can both reflect our true identity and mislead others about who we are. “As fashion evolves, so too does the message we communicate through our clothes. Sometimes, we might unintentionally present a false image, while at other times, our outfits reveal more about our mental and emotional states than we realize,” Tanga told The New Times. Trends like old money, streetwear, minimalism, casual, sporty, and classic styles often define people before they even introduce themselves, showcasing how we express individuality while navigating social norms. Tanga stresses that, while trends may shift, the way we dress either reveals or obscures our authentic selves. “As designers, our goal is to help clients communicate their identity through what they wear, but it’s important to remember that our clothing speaks volumes about us, often before we even utter a word. Fashion can create perceptions that might not reflect the truth. For example, someone in expensive clothes might be mistaken for wealth, while someone in casual attire may be unfairly judged as less successful,” he said. ALSO READ: Sonia Mugabo reflects on her fashion line growth, challenges, and proud moments “The way we dress often mirrors our emotional and mental state. When someone puts effort into their appearance and matching the environment they are going in, it signals self-care, confidence, and success. Conversely, a lack of effort in one’s appearance may suggest emotional struggles or personal turmoil.” Tanga also pointed out that clothes can reveal the event someone is attending, even without them saying a word. “When you see someone in traditional attire, you instantly know they’re attending a wedding or burial, as those are the occasions for such clothing. Likewise, a man in a suit signals a meeting or special event, unless he’s in a white-collar job. It’s crucial to dress appropriately for the event or environment, or else you risk losing confidence if things turn out differently than expected.” Jane Gatete Abatoni, a psychologist in Kigali, explains that our clothing choices can either boost our confidence or undermine our identity. Fashion is linked to age and culture, young women may avoid long dresses, as they’re associated with older generations, which can harm their confidence, Abatoni explained. ALSO READ: How having a fashion school in Rwanda will impact the industry She adds that wearing age-appropriate clothes, like trendy mini-skirts, helps young people feel connected to their peers. “Fashion also plays a role in social expectations. Peer pressure influences us, and seeing others wear trendy items often makes us feel the need to follow suit. However, dressing too youthful at an older age, may be seen as trying to look younger, which can affect self-esteem, in the eyes of those who see us.” Abatoni highlighted that confidence comes from dressing appropriately for your age, environment, and occasion. Clothes should reflect who you are and where you are in life. And colors can have calming or stimulating effects. Vibrant colors like red are linked to excitement and energy, while cooler tones bring calmness and peace. Fashion is a tool for self-expression, confidence, and navigating the social world, she concluded.” Kelia Umunyana, a university student with a keen interest in fashion, explained how deeply her emotions are tied to her clothing choices. When picking clothes every morning, she says, it’s almost like a mirror reflecting how I’m feeling inside. On days when I’m feeling confident, I’ll opt for something bold and expressive, like a striking color or a unique style. “But on days when I’m feeling down or introspective, I tend to choose more understated, comfortable outfits that match my mood. It’s almost as if my clothes become a visual expression of my inner state, and interestingly, people around me can always sense my emotions just by the way I dress. It’s a silent, yet powerful way of communicating how I feel without saying a word,” she added.
