Meet Anthony Kanyesigye, The Graphic Designer Whose Style Crush is Martha Jabo

We had a chat with Kanyesigye Anthony, famously known as Anthony Kays. The award-winning graphics designers shared the inspiration behind his dapper looks and what he’s listening to. 

1.Before jumping right in, tell us about yourself and what you do.

Anthony Kanyesigye is my name and I’m a professional graphics designer, entrepreneur and equestrian.

2.How does that influence your style choices?

What I do has absolutely nothing to do with my style choices.  I draw my inspiration from my own raw DNA since I was a fashion student at college.

3.How and when did you get interested in fashion?

The first day I stepped into the fashion class at Uganda Christian University. Being around all those creative people just brought to life a side of me I didn’t know I had.

4.How would you describe your personal style?

A touch of class and simplicity.

5. Most of your red carpet looks are sharp suits. Who are some of the creatives you usually work with on the designs?

Well, 90%  of those suits are custom made for me. Like I shared earlier, I was a fashion student. I do my sketches and share with my designers who tailor them. I have 3 designers Kaijuka Abbas Martha Jabo & Bryt Suits because I love to embrace home fashion. The rest of what I wear is exported from Italy and Thailand.

6.Where do you shop?

Jade collection Kenya and Kais divo collection Uganda.And, of course, some impulse purchases in town.

7.What in your opinion are the essentials every stylish man or one who aspires to be should have in their closet?

Accessories are key to any stylish look. No look will be complete without accessories. So, they’re a must-have.

8.Do you have a style idol? 

Diamond Platinumz. Well, because he has best the stylist. I’ve never seen him looking anything other than ‘sharp’.

9.What’s the song you are currently obsessed with?

Melanin by Sauti Sol

10.What’s the movie everyone should be watching right now?

Well, I’m not a movie person but more updated with animation trends.  I last watched was SING, though and would recommend it any day.

11.Any new skill you would love to learn?

I would love to learn how to play a musical instrument or two because I love to sing.

12.What’s your favourite thing to wear?

Blazers and oversize pants

13. Leather or Lace

Leather

14.If you had the chance to choose someone famous to have coffee with, who would that be?

Hahaha well well that would be Tyra Banks.

15.What is the most awesome thing you’ve ever received as a gift?

I received a horse as a present for my birthday.

16.What fashion advice would you give me?

Key to making a signature look work is to let it evolve from your own raw DNA.

17.Lastly, is there a female here in Uganda whose style you’re constantly crushing on?

Oh yes. That’s designer Martha Jabo.

This interview has been edited and condensed. 

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