"Can fashion bring world peace?" How would you answer if you were asked this question directly?

In the Republic of Congo, far away in Africa, there is a group that answers without a moment's hesitation with a resounding "YES!" Many of you may already be familiar with these Sapeurs, who are making waves in fashion media around the world.

FASHION HEADLINE invited photographer Kunio Chano, who introduced them to Japan with his photo book "THE SAPEUR: The World's Most Stylish Gentlemen I Met in Congo," to conduct a fashion shoot and interview.

"Sapeurs" refers to a group of people called "supers," and "supes" is an acronym for the French phrase "a group exuding an elegant and noble atmosphere."

They embody this term with their actions. Some dress in vivid primary-colored suits, others in classical formal wear. Then they take to the streets and dance with their own unique style. He's a passionate entertainer and a leader with a strong sense of honor.

What all their clothing has in common is that it's not traditional attire, but Western clothing. The Republic of the Congo was a French territory for a long time before independence. This was actually the catalyst for the birth of the "Sapeurs."

"In the past, working with the French was a privilege and the envy of the people," says Yves Saint Laurent, known as the "Pope of Sapeurs." (Sapeurs use the "Sapeur" name in addition to their real names, a name that pays homage to the great designer.)

"Both my grandfather and father worked with the French. Working with them, we naturally paid attention to our appearance. We also had to dress our children well. So, while it wasn't a 'hereditary' tradition, I've always loved dressing up since I was a child."

The Sapeurs were born from a mix of bourgeois French culture and the vibrant atmosphere unique to Africa. However, in their early days, they were often looked down upon by society. This is perhaps understandable, considering the reality in the Congo, where the average monthly income is said to be 30,000 yen. However, fashion lovers around the world now view them as a symbol of peace.

Muyengo Severin, a 43-year sapeur known affectionately as "Grand Sapeur" in his home country, says:

"Sapeurs thoroughly eliminate violence. There is ongoing civil war in the Congo and surrounding areas. My wish is that not only in the Republic of the Congo, but everyone in the world will become a sapeur. If that were to happen, wars would end in the blink of an eye."

He also spoke of the importance of education, and believes that if Congolese children continue to study hard, find stable jobs, and follow the teachings of the sapeurs, that future will truly come true one day.

"What Sapeurs must abide by. These are not written down in bullet points, but they all naturally abide by these teachings and try to pass them on to the next generation. They are to be clean, to treat everyone kindly, to be completely non-violent, and to wish for peace."

If you love fashion, you are a member of the Sapeurs. And once you have abided by these teachings, there is a responsibility you must fulfill. And that is to dress up more than usual when you go out. If someone says to you, "I like your outfit today," respond by taking the same steps as they do.
[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: "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)