Butera’s 8 fashion tips to achieve simplicity and elegance

Sandrine Isheja Butera presents the K-Mid-morning show which tackles vast societal issues. Butera has also been an emcee at several corporate events. She spoke to Society Magazine’s Doreen Umutesi about her fashion sense. How would you describe your dress sense? For me comfort goes hand in hand with class. I don’t just put on anything because it’s comfortable. I dress according to the occasion and where I am going. I also put a special consideration on not being too flashy. I don’t like big earrings or a lot of make-up. What’s your favourite clothing item? I like dresses. When I put on a beautiful dress I feel more confident and seductive. It brings out the best feminine part of me. Where do you shop for clothes? Contrary to many girls, I don’t like shopping. I don’t like the process of choosing between many clothes and having to try them on and then start bargaining - that’s why I always have to take a friend with me who I know enjoys shopping. When I need to buy a dress I go to the high fashion shops, unfortunately it’s always expensive but it’s worth it. Lately I’ve developed a passion for the African print dresses and I found a very good tailor who makes them for me. When I need cool t-Shirts and flat shoes I go to Mr Price and when I need jeans I go to T2000, located in town, there is a guy who sells nice jeans. What do you consider when shopping clothes? I go with the trend (jean shirts, see through tops). I look for my favourite colours (green, orange and blue), and I make sure that they fit me well and look good on me. What is your favourite fashion accessory? A nice watch and beautiful earrings are my favourite fashion accessories. What is your favourite clothing item on a guy? I like a guy who wears nice shoes. It shows me that he is clean and stylish. It’s hard for me to imagine a guy with nice and clean shoes who can wear dirty clothes. What’s your favourite scent? This is a tough question because I like perfumes so much. I have a range of favourite scents and it’s hard for me to choose one. However my top three are: Yvress (by Yves Saint Laurent), J’adore (by Christian Dior), and Polo2 for women (by Ralf Lauren). Any fashion advice? Simplicity is the key to elegance. Follow the trend but don’t be too much. Dress according to the occasion. And remember, a small detail, nice shoes, nice earrings, a nice perfume can make a difference.