This summer, a group of fashion-loving men from the Congo visited Japan. Despite living in a poor country with an average monthly income of 30,000 yen, they are showcasing the power of fashion to the world through their stylish dressing.

FASHION HEADLINE posed seven questions to each of the six Sapeur members who visited Japan.

In this first interview, we asked Yves Saint Laurent, who shares the Sapeur name with the legendary designer. He is 50 years old and works as a teacher in the Congo. He speaks calmly and elegantly. On this day, he was dressed in a tailcoat. He is a gentleman who does not compromise on accessories such as his bowler hat and cane.

Q1: What made you start Sapeur?

Both my grandfather and father worked alongside French people. Working alongside French people was a rare occurrence at the time, and perhaps even considered a privilege. They wanted us Congolese people to dress well, and I've heard that my grandfathers and fathers were also happy to wear Western clothes. It wasn't hereditary, but I've loved dressing up since I was little.

Q2: When did you first discover the joy of fashion?

Back then, just being able to wear Western clothes was something to be envied, so I was taught to wear Western clothes from a young age and I quickly discovered the joy of being recognized by others. I also happened to have the name "Yves," so people around me started calling me Saint Laurent after Yves as a nickname.

Q3: What are your style preferences?

I like traditional gentlemanly style. I'm particularly drawn to strict British attire. Since I've started attending Independence Day ceremonies in the United States, I try to dress with proper etiquette.

Q4: What are your favorite designers and brands?

For Japanese brands, I like Yohji Yamamoto and Kansai Yamamoto. Also, when a designer directly says, "I want you to wear their clothes!", you naturally become a fan of that brand. The hat I'm wearing today was also given to me by the owner of CA4LA in Omotesando when I visited there this time.

Q5: What were you looking forward to about your visit to Japan?

Actually, I'm planning to establish a Japanese branch of Sapeur. In fact, I've already prepared the paperwork. I'm considering making photographer Chano, who introduced us to Japan, and designer Kansai Yamamoto honorary members.

Q6: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

Pipes and walking sticks are things that only high-class people around the world own, but I'm happy that they can now be enjoyed as fashion.

Q7: Please tell us your dreams for the future

I would like to work as a press or model for a famous fashion house brand. In my home country, I also work as a stylist and fashion advisor. I would like to continue to be actively involved in fashion.

The Sapeur members are in Japan to promote their photo book, "THE SAPEUR: The World's Most Stylish Gentlemen I Met in Congo" (photographed by Chano Kunio), and the photo exhibition currently being held in Okinawa, "THE SAPUER: A Photo Exhibition of the World's Most Stylish Gentlemen, the Sapeurs, from the African Congo." You can get a close look at their fashion and style at the events and photo book below.
[Photobook]
>
Title: THE SAPEUR - The World's Most Stylish Gentleman I Met in Congo
Author: Kunio Chano
Publisher: Okura Publishing
Price: 2,700 yen
[Photo Exhibition]
>
Title: Photo Exhibition of "SAPUER", the World's Most Stylish Gentleman from the African Congo
Date and Time: Now until August 31st
Location: 3-1-12 Kubota, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture
Plaza House Shopping Center Fair Mall 3F Rycom Anthropologie
Admission Fee: 500 yen (Free for junior high school students and younger)