This summer, a group of fashion-loving men from Congo visited Japan. Despite living in a poor country with an average monthly income of 30,000 yen, they show the world the power of fashion by dressing stylishly.

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

Dressed in a British green tartan jacket, Mr. Ibarra spoke softly, with a gentlemanly air and a sophisticated demeanor.

Q1: What inspired you to start Sapeur?

Today's Sapeurs are influenced by the popular Congolese pop singer Papa Wemba. I was one of his greatest influences. I began to dress fashionably because I admired him.

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

I think it was around 14 years old. The group was already close, and we would compete daily to see who could dress the best.

Q3: What are your styling preferences?

Rather than matching suits, I pair a jacket with pants of a different color or material. This is considered a high-level style even among Sapeurs.

Q4: Who is your favorite designer or brand?

The French brand Arthur and Fox.

Q5: What were you looking forward to about coming to Japan?

I had heard about Japan on TV and had always wanted to visit. Just coming to Japan was a dream come true.

Q6: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

This may be due to ethnic differences, but Congolese men are quite aggressive. However, when they wear nice clothes, they don't want to get them dirty or torn, so they naturally behave more like gentlemen. Dressing well reduces arguments.

Q7: Please tell us your dreams for the future

I would like to work hard both at my job and in my Sapeur activities so that I can live a more fulfilling life. My wife loves to go to Paris, so I would like to take her there more often.





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 of the Congo, Africa." You can get a close look at their fashion and style at the events and photo book below.
[Photobook]
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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: "SAPUER" Photo Exhibition: 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)