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.

The final member of this series is Muyengo Severin, a 43-year Sapeur known in his home country as "Grand Sapeur." He also visited Japan in April of this year, generating much buzz. On this day, he wore a vibrantly colored jacket from Kansai Yamamoto, which designer Kansai Yamamoto had given him as a gift during his previous visit. He also coordinated his entire outfit with primary-colored items, including pants, shirt, vest, and hat. It's amazing how he managed to create a style that was so uniquely his own.

Q1: What made you start Sapeur?

Sapeurs originated in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo. My father was a Sapeur, and I always wanted to be like him. My real name also means "clean," so I always took care to dress well.

Q2: When did you discover the joy of fashion?

I've been a Sapeur since I was 15. My father was also a very cool Sapeur. Being surrounded by Sapeurs like that influenced me greatly. I was already aspiring to be one by the time I was about 10. I remember it clearly.

Q4: What are your styling priorities?

To add some decoration. I believe in creating elegance by adding elements. For example, suits may be single-breasted or double-breasted, but the general shape is similar. Adding a handkerchief, tie, or color can create your own unique style.

Q5: What are your favorite designers and brands?

That's Kansai Yamamoto (laughs). I also bought new pants to go with this jacket I received during my last visit to Japan. I couldn't find a matching hat, so I managed to find the fabric and sewed it on over my existing one. I have a number of favorite brands, but I like to make my own modifications and make them original.



Q6: What were you looking forward to about your visit to Japan?

I would like to create "Sapeur" in Japan as well. I have already contacted several people, including Kansai Yamamoto.

Q7: What is the appeal of fashion to you?

Fashion is something that makes you feel noble. Delicate stitching, cutting that fits the body, vibrant colors. Wearing beautiful clothes lifts your spirits.

Q8: Please tell us your dreams for the future

I met Kansai Yamamoto on my last visit to Japan, and we realized that we have similar thoughts. Conflicts are constant in African countries. First of all, I would like to use Congo as a starting point to eliminate fighting from Africa. I also hope that the circle of peace created by Sapeur will spread throughout 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]
>
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: 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)