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, they are showcasing the power of fashion to the world through their stylish dressing. FASHION HEADLINE posed seven questions to each of the six visiting Sapeur members. This is the youngest of the visiting members. On this day, he coordinated a beige suit with rubber-soled wingtip shoes. He enjoys fashion with a free-spirited approach, even wearing his jacket inside out when walking around the museum. Q1: What inspired you to start Sapeur? It was my father. He had a strong admiration for French fashion, so he moved to Paris. He still sends me clothes from Paris. Q2: When did you first discover the joy of fashion? Sapeur is a tradition passed down from father to son. I was encouraged to dress up from a young age, so I've loved dressing up ever since I was a child. I still vividly remember buying a Pierre Cardin suit at the age of 16.

Q3: What are your styling preferences?

I like to mix a formal suit with rugged items like denim jackets or leather jackets. I also wear matching denim outfits.

Q4: Who are your favorite designers and brands?

My greatest joy is having a suit made from JOHN FOSTER fabric. Pairing it with JM WESTON shoes is the best. KENZO and Pierre Cardin are also brands I like.

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

There was a runway show yesterday, and I was so honored to be able to walk as a model. It felt like a long-held dream had come true. I even got to appear on TV (laughs).

Q6: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

In Congo, the act of "dressing up" is a way of sending a message to others that "I am a peaceful person and do not desire violence." It is a country with constant conflict, so I hope to be able to contribute even a little to peace.

Q7: What are your dreams for the future?

I was able to come to Japan and walk the runway, which I had always dreamed of. I would like to continue to become a presence that attracts attention in Italy, France, and other parts of the world.



The Sapeur members have come to Japan to promote the 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, Sapeurs, from the African Congo." You can also get a close look at their fashion and style at the events and photo book listed 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)