Can Your Fashion Styles Increase Your Confidence in 2025?

Can Your Fashion Styles Increase Your Confidence in 2025?

A journey of self-discovery through fashion often begins with a single moment of transformation. For this writer, that moment came in 2018 on the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda, where a simple wardrobe choice would challenge years of cultural conditioning and spark a personal style revolution.

Kigali's streets pulse with the energy of countless motorcycles, offering an affordable and efficient means of navigation through the city's traffic. Unlike the boda bodas of neighboring Kampala, Uganda, these Rwandan motos are renowned for their cleanliness, safety, and strict one-passenger policy. This seemingly minor detail would become the catalyst for a significant personal transformation

Motobike in Kigali City, Rwanda [Photo Credit: Safari]

In Kampala, motorcycle passengers can choose between two sitting styles: 'kisajja' (straddling the bike like men do) or 'kikyala' (sitting sideways, traditionally preferred by women). Dressed in what the writer describes as a "skimpy" dress, the cultural clash became apparent. The impossible choice between maintaining modesty and practical transportation led to a cancelled trip and disapproving glances from friends. The solution? Trousers – a simple garment that had been forbidden by both cultural and religious constraints.

Motobike in Kampala City, Uganda [Photo Credit: Safari]

Growing up in the conservative Baganda tribe as a Protestant, the writer's wardrobe choices were heavily influenced by traditional values. Childhood comments about being too tall, too small, and "nyashless" (having a flat bottom) had shaped her self-image, leading her to seek refuge in flowing skirts and dresses that concealed these perceived imperfections. The practical necessity of Kigali's motorcycle transport finally challenged these deeply ingrained habits.

Through supportive friends and gradual experimentation, a new confidence emerged. Here are the key lessons learned, enhanced by expert insights, for anyone seeking to build confidence through fashion in 2025:

Embrace Authenticity

Start with what feels comfortable and gradually expand your horizons. For those struggling with body image issues, begin with forgiving silhouettes before exploring more fitted styles. The key is finding what makes you feel genuinely yourself.

Fashionable Rwandaise influencer  Isimbi Model 

Master the Art of Fit

Understanding the difference between tight and ill-fitting clothing is crucial. Properly fitted garments, regardless of style, can enhance confidence while maintaining comfort. The goal is finding that sweet spot where comfort meets sophistication.

Designer Olivier Niyitanga (Tanga Design) emphasizes the importance of cultural expression through fashion. "Choose pieces that feel like an extension of who you are," he advises, recommending investment in versatile staples like sharp blazers, well-fitted jeans, and classic shoes as foundational pieces.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

The Power of Accessories

Think of accessories as confidence-boosting tools. Whether it's an elegant watch, architectural earrings, or a silk scarf, these elements can transform basic outfits into powerful statements of personal style. The key is selecting one or two standout pieces that enhance rather than overwhelm. 

Fashionable the Kigali-based artist, singer and songwriter- Bruce Melogy

Color Psychology

Tanga suggests using color strategically to influence mood and project confidence. "Red for power, blue for calm, yellow for energy – choose colors that align with how you want to feel," he advises.

Kigali-based fashion designer  Olivier Niyitanga

Building a Sustainable Wardrobe

Focus on quality over quantity, investing in pieces that resonate deeply rather than following fleeting trends. Apply the "One-Year Rule" when decluttering: if an item hasn't been worn in a year, consider letting it go. Create three piles during wardrobe clean-outs: keep, donate/sell, and undecided, revisiting the latter after a month for final decisions.

Release Emotional Attachments

Keep only truly meaningful pieces and avoid holding onto clothes out of obligation. If a gifted item hasn't been worn in five years, it's time to let go – perhaps even informing the gift-giver so they can choose something more aligned with your current style. 

Fashionable former Miss Rwanda- Mutesi Jolly 

The journey from cultural constraints to confident self-expression through fashion is ongoing. As we move into 2025, the key to building confidence through style lies not in following trends but in authentic self-expression, thoughtful curation, and the courage to evolve beyond our comfort zones. After all, true style confidence comes from wearing what makes you feel empowered, regardless of external expectations.

 Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Original Story by Jane Babirye