This summer, these fashion-loving men from Congo came to 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 Sapeur members who visited Japan.

Eric owns his own shop in his home country and works as a designer. On this day, he appeared wearing a vest and pants he made himself. Even during the interview, he was engrossed in making a bow tie, proving that he is passionate not only about dressing up, but also about making clothes.

Q1: What made you start Sapeur?

I majored in accounting at university, but after graduating, I tried to find a job, but it didn't work out. Since I've always loved fashion, I decided to work selling shirts and ties. After that, I started taking part in contests (in the Congo, fashion shows are held in bars and clubs, etc., where people compete to see who can show off their best style. Some are large and sponsored by companies), and gradually I was recognized as a Sapeur.

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

It was from a very young age. I was the kind of kid who would change my outfit three times a day: in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Q3: What are your styling preferences?

In the past, I mainly used ready-to-wear clothes, but now I make many of my own items. So I try to incorporate items I make myself somewhere. My pants today are also original. The key point is that they have a white cut-out at the hem.

Q4: What are your favorite designers and brands?

For shoes, it's J.M. Weston.

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

This time it also has a strong professional meaning, so I will make sure to fulfill that. Personally, I would like many people to see the clothes and ties I make. I choose the fabric and sew them myself.

Q6: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

I believe that dressing up can make people happy and can also inspire them. Your clothes send a message to others about who you are.

Q7: What are your dreams for the future?

I would like to work for a brand that is renowned for its haute couture. I believe I have a talent for design. There are not many opportunities in Africa, so I would like to travel to different parts of the world and have people see what I have made.

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 Continent, 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]
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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)