By CHRISTY ANYANWU
CATERINA Bortolussi is the creative director of Kinabuti. The Italian designer has been living in Lagos for the past 10 years. She says her fashion label, Kinabuti, also birthed a non-profit organization that empowers women and youths in different communities. “We have worked with people in Makoko area of Yaba, Lagos and Port Harcourt teaching tailoring skills and doing other community projects. I believe we should empower people and make them become SMEs. We do Italian as well as Nigerian designs.” At her Ikoyi studio, she spoke about her favourites.
What’s your favourite colour?
Green. Green has to do with nature. I love nature.
Favourite food?
I like coconut and vegetarian food. I became a vegetarian 11 years ago before coming to Nigeria. But for Nigerian food, I like moin moin, fried plantain and akara as well as fried yam without spices.
Favourite weather?
I like it when it rains and when it’s sunny. It’s nice for my skin. This season is my best before July.
Favourite sports?
I love cycling, yoga, swimming and now I’m learning how to surf.
Favourite holiday spot?
I go to Italy. I like to go back home. When I leave Nigeria, I go to Italy because my family is there.
Favourite book?
I like Chanterdrama. It’s an Indian book. I also like Half of the Yellow Sun.
Favourite designer?
In Nigeria, I like Deola Sagoe and Tiffany Amber.
Favourite fashion accessories?
Hats and sunglasses
Favourite TV program?
I don’t watch TV
Favourite movie?
The movie I really like is Angela, directed by Luc Besson.
Favourite role model?
I like people that think a little bit outside the box, like Bill Gates, the Microsoft Inc founder.
Favourite car?
I like the Mini; it’s part of the BMW family. It’s a small car, very cute and beautiful. I also like the new Beetle by Volkswagen.