In Kigali, fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a reflection of culture, personality, and evolving tastes. As people dress to reflect their personalities and culture, clothing shops must keep up with the demand, balancing tradition and modernity.
Jean Damascene, a father of one, has been in the clothing business for 10 years. During that time, he has been able to build a house at Muyombo, Rwamagana where he resides. Jean travels weekly to purchase clothes for resale at Kabuga Market. “When we go to buy stock, it feels like an auction. Sellers display clothes, and we bid on them as retailers,” he explains.
When asked how he chooses what to buy, Jean replies, ” As an individual, I have my preferences, but I don’t rely on that. Instead, I put myself in my customers’ shoes and think of what they would like. It’s crucial to prioritize their needs over my personal preferences”.
We Interviewed Jean while he was selling a T-shirt, with the customer bargaining for a lower price. Jean noted that a T-shirt in Kabuga Market costs between 3,000 and 5,000 RWF. He added, “These prices can only go higher as new taxes and fees arise, and transport fares increase year by year.”
Street Selling: A Key Part of Local Fashion
Another major aspect of the local dress scene in Kigali is Street Selling. Street sellers play a crucial role in dressing the general public, especially those with minimal incomes, as their goods are more affordable.
Eric Munyaneza is a street seller who operates in various parts of the city depending on where the market is thriving at the moment. “I have been doing this for a while now, and it has become my daily job. I work with my wife who focuses on selling T-shirts, Jumpers and female outfits while I trade male pants and shoes”. Eric shared.
Street vending is more fast paced compared to operating a shop. Eric explained. Eric explained “I work every other day, leaving the day in between to source new goods since most of the items I sell are gone the next day.” Although his products sell quickly, Eric admitted that profits are minimal due to the low prices and high transport costs associated with street selling.
A Visitor’s Perspective on Kigali’s Fashion
To gain an outsider’s view, we spoke with Daniel Alifi Ali, a Chadian citizen visiting Rwanda. He praised the local fashion scene, saying, “Rwandan people dress well, always very clean, with some similarities to American (USA) fashion, especially among the youth.”
When asked where he shops in Kigali and what his ideal outfit is, Daniel replied, “I buy clothes in downtown and Remera, just two places. My ideal outfit is wearing oversized clothes with matching colors and good shoes from CHIC Downtown Market. That’s where the good stuff is.”
The Role of Footwear in Kigali’s Fashion Scene
It is hard to talk about Kigali Clothing scene without mentioning the footwear. Cyiza Osèe Joshua, a young adult who wholesales and retails shoes and sandals at CHIC in Kigali, shared his journey. When asked why he chose this career, he replied with a smile, “I grew up loving shoes, and my brother was in the shoe business. When I finished my studies, I decided to do this full-time.”
Do Kigali residents really engage in buying shoes?
“People in Kigali nowadays understand the importance of looking good and dressing to make an impression. The value of looking smart daily has increased. So, to answer your question: yes,” Osèe affirmed. He interacts with at least 200 people daily who come looking for what he sells.
Traditional and Modern Trends
One of the most popular local styles includes the African wear “ibitenge,” featuring bold colors and symbolic designs that resonate with local cultures and align with continental tastes. In Rwanda, it’s especially popular among women. Another trend gaining momentum is the “Made in Rwanda” chic wear, embraced by both the young and middle-aged.
As Kigali evolves, so does its vibrant dress culture. From bold traditional designs to modern trends, the city’s fashion scene is a testament to its dynamic identity. For local vendors and designers, it’s not just about selling clothes; it’s about shaping a community where style meets cultural expression.
