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 Sapeur members who visited Japan.

John looked stylish in a beige-toned style. This Sapeur exudes wisdom not only in his style, but also in his demeanor and every word he speaks. In our interview, he spoke about the importance of upholding morals and passing on the teachings of Sapeur to the next generation.

Q1: What inspired you to start Sapeur?

When I was a child, there was a bar near where Sapeurs gathered. I would watch the Sapeurs there and dream of being one myself someday.

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

Dressing up might be a part of our country's culture. My father was not a Sapeur, but there were many in my neighborhood, so I was strongly influenced by them from a young age and discovered the joy of dressing up.

Q3: What are your styling preferences?

I also have rules for fashion. I try to dress neatly and appropriately for the purpose and the place. I also like to use ties and handkerchiefs to customize my outfits to my own style. I often wear tight-fitting pants that flatter my figure.

Q4: Who are your favorite designers or brands?

I try not to have a favorite brand. I don't favor any particular brand; if I like an item, I'll wear it.

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

It's been my dream to travel abroad and engage in cultural exchange, so I'm happy just to be here. I'm also good at step dance, so I'd like to have as many people in Japan as possible see it.

Q6: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

Once you learn how to dress up, you're hooked. Standing in front of a full-length mirror and decking yourself out in your favorite clothes gives you a surge of confidence.

Q7: What are your dreams for the future?

In the past, many Sapeurs did not have permanent jobs and relied on their wives or families to buy their clothes. We are different. We are a new generation of Sapeurs. We all have permanent jobs, and we believe it is important to spread a message of peace and fraternity throughout the world through Sapeur attire and behavior.

The Sapeur members came to Japan to promote their photo book, "THE SAPEUR: The World's Most Stylish Gentlemen I Met in Congo" (photographed by Chano Kunio), and their current photo exhibition 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 books listed below.
[Photo Book]
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Title: THE SAPEUR - The World's Most Stylish Gentleman I Met in Congo
Author: Chano Kunio
Publisher: Okura Publishing
Price: 2,700 yen
[Photo Exhibition]
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Title: Photo Exhibition of the World's Most Stylish Gentleman, "SAPUER" from the African Congo
Date and Time: Now until August 31st
Location: Plaza House Shopping Center Fair Mall 3F, Rycom Anthropologie, 3-1-12 Kubota, Okinawa City, Okinawa
Admission Fee: 500 yen (Free for junior high school students and younger)