Umutoniwase celebrates five years in fashion

Joselyne Umutoniwase is celebrating five years of a dream come true. Ever since she was a little girl, she wanted to be a designer. She always wanted her own fashion brand but never thought it was possible. But last weekend, she celebrated the 5th anniversary of her brand- Rwanda Clothing and the event was attended by several guests including her clients, friends, family, and fellow designers. The fashion show runway was well set for the patrons to view the brand’s latest apparels. Donata Kiiza. The colourful event was held at Business Professionals Network (BPN) offices in Kacyiru, and it featured a fashion show, where the brand’s latest collections were displayed by young and adult models. A model shows off an outfit designed by Rwanda Clothing. Donata Kiiza. A cake, drinks and snacks were served to the guests to spice up the evening. The private fashion show also severed to celebrate the loyalty of her clients, who have stood with her for the last five years. “Tonight, it’s a celebration of the beauty and growth of the company and also to appreciate all my clients, family and friends, who have supported me all these years,” said Umutoniwase. The founder of Rwanda Clothing, Joselyne Umutoniwase, (holding her little daughter in arms), reflects on her five years journey in the fashion industry. Donata Kiiza. She noted that with the determination to always deliver the best of her work, she will continue working towards improving the quality of her collections, as she has been doing from the beginning till now and also looking forward to grow her clientele as well as her company. The designer said she will soon open a kids’ collection at her store, an idea she attributes to her young daughter. A model walks the runway with a young model, donned in a chic off-the-shoulder jumpsuit. Donata Kiiza. Rwanda Clothing started in 2010; at the time Umutoniwase was working as a film director and editor at former Rwanda Film Centre— now Kwetu Film Institute, Gacuriro. She later quit her film job in 2012 to focus on her fashion project. Rwanda Clothing’s latest collections. Donata Kiiza. The brand specialises in colourful print designs and blends African fabric with international styles. The BPN offices in Kacyiru, was packed to its capacity, as fashion enthusiasts throng the venue for the ceremony. Donata Kiiza. The 29-year-old attributes her success to having a good connection with her client base, family and a talented team. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Umutoniwase celebrates five years in fashion