As special guests of "PITTI IMAGINE UOMO at ISETAN MEN'S," currently being held at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , the Sapeurs "paraded" through Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . Some danced gracefully, while others casually put their arms around each other's shoulders for photos. Stylists in the store and customers alike took hands and danced together. At that time, the entire Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building was enveloped in a happy mood.

Photography: Kunio Chano

Many of you may already know this, but to explain again, "Sapeurs" is a group of people called "Sap," which is an acronym for the French phrase meaning "a group that exudes an elegant and noble aura."
One of the reasons for their origins is that the Republic of Congo was under French colonial rule for a long time. Westerners, dressed in well-tailored, crisp, and clean "Western clothing," were an object of admiration for them. Eventually, this combined with Africa's uniquely bright and vibrant aesthetic sense, giving rise to a group that dressed elegantly.

Incidentally, conflict continues around Congo, and the Republic of Congo itself has an economic situation with an average monthly income of only 30,000 yen. However, they absolutely refuse to stop dressing up. Why? Because they believe that fashion can make the world a happier place. Muyengo Severin, a Sapeur for 43 years and revered as the "Great Sapeur" in his home country, says this:

"The Sapeurs completely eliminate violence. Civil war continues in and around Congo. My wish is for everyone, not just in the Republic of Congo, to become a Sapeur. If that happens, wars will end in no time."

Photography: Kunio Chano

This "teaching" has permeated even the younger Sapeurs, who haven't been Sapeurs for as long as he has. Malonga Jober, the youngest of the members visiting Japan this time at 24 years old, also imbues his dressing with a wish for peace.
"In Congo, the act of 'dressing up' is a way of sending a message to others saying, 'I am a peaceful person and I do not want violence.' It is a country where conflict is constant, so I hope to contribute to peace, even in a small way."

Photography: Kunio Chano

They wish for lasting peace not only in their home country but throughout the world. Their charming and enthusiastic interactions with the assembled crowd seemed to embody the message that "if you want world peace, start with those around you." Fashion is about freedom, and people dress up for a variety of reasons. It can be to lift your own spirits, or simply to dress up for yourself. But following their example, we can also consider that enjoying our own fashion can contribute to the happiness of those around us.

Peter Drucker, the father of modern management, stated that "the pursuit of corporate profits automatically means the fulfillment of social responsibility." A socially responsible gentleman should think this way: that is, the act of presenting oneself in a dignified manner contributes in some way to the happiness of others. The very existence of those who adorn themselves and never forget to be considerate of those around them demonstrates that this is not a far-fetched idea.

Text: Morishita Ryuta

Kunio Chano
Born in Shiga Prefecture in 1959. Began working as a freelance photographer immediately after graduating from university. In 1984, became the youngest person to be nominated as a full member of the Japan Advertising Photographers Association (APA). Moved to the United States in 1986 and worked for NEW YORK YOMIURI PRESS. Conducted on-location photography in Europe and the United States. Moved to Okinawa in 1991. Currently based in Okinawa, he dedicates his life to advertising photography and photography of the Sapeurs.
www.sapchano.com

THE SAPEUR: A photo exhibition showcasing the world's most stylish gentlemen, the "SAPEUR," from Congo, Africa.
□ July 23 (Sat) - August 31 (Wed), 2016, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM □ Plaza House Shopping Center Fair Mall 3F, Rycom Anthropologie (3-1-12 Kubota, Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture)
■Admission fee: 500 yen (Free for junior high school students and younger)

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