In Africa, a dirty environment, a slum that is often burdened with poverty and backwardness such as lack of food and schooling, often has a group of "fashionistas" wearing suits and shiny shoes appearing on the streets of Kinshasa, the capital of Congo. Their clothes seem to be incompatible with the impression of "poverty, backwardness and mess", but all their suits and ties are so dazzling step by step. At first glance, this wonderful scene can be said to be comparable to the fashion street shooting of European and American international brands.
They would rather not eat or drink, live in a thatched cottage and save money to buy gorgeous and luxurious suits and dresses, such as Armani, Gucci, Saint Laurent and other international first-line luxury brands; And the leather shoes that step on this barren land are top custom brands. Speaking of which, some people will think that they are wearing fakes. On the contrary, they are all wearing real brand names.
It is such a "magical" place that has formed the "most exquisite" fashion association in Africa today, which is called "Sapeurs" locally. People who dress neatly, are polite, do not drink or take drugs, are self-reliant, know fashion and are strict with themselves, and strive to bring positive influence to others through their positive energy behavior.
Elegant cut silhouette, bright colors, tall and straight details, elegant top hat with gentlemen, staff in hand, bow at the neckline, and even pocket towels on clothes all show elegance in place, lighting up the messy land in slums and adding some bright colors and fun to life, just like a group of jazz "bands" full of retro years, which are exquisite and elegant.
The "Sapeurs" in this fashion association are not rich second generation, let alone "nouveau riche". Most of them are engaged in basic ordinary jobs, such as ordinary employees in companies, taxi drivers, policemen, carpenters, bricklayers or small tailors. Convenient leisure time, transformed into retro and fashionable street style in suits and ties, and became a fashion subculture in Africa now.
Perhaps, in the eyes of many people, they can't understand the behavior of these "Sapels". Their monthly salary is only over $200 to $300, but they will dress themselves up carefully for weekend activities, exchange clothes according to the theme of the party, and take every activity seriously. Even if it takes half a month to half a month's salary to get the style, this does not hinder their instinctive pursuit of fashion and beauty.
This fashion subculture originated from the retro style at the end of 19 and the beginning of the 20th century. Jean de Witte, a Belgian archaeologist, recorded the changes of African local people's clothes in 19 13: "They have several pairs of trousers and sweaters shipped from Europe, as if to show off, and they try to stack them together, even though this way of dressing is totally unsuitable for the hot weather in Congo. Many locals are proud to follow European fashion. "
Some people say that it was the local people who resisted the "voice" of the colonists at that time and tried to resist the colonial trend of thought through clothing language; Some people also say that this is a potential inferiority complex to be colonized.
Anyway, I think "Sapeurs" has become a culture and a way of life in the African fashion circle. It also shows the African people's pursuit of fashion and beauty and breaks people's impression of "poverty" in Africa. At the same time, through constant change, development and exploration, with unique collocation and fashion concept, we wear out our unique fashion style and walk out of Africa's own fashion style. Even in a bad and messy environment, maintaining a good positive attitude is the secret of harvesting happiness.
As "Sa Pailes" said, "We ignore the surrounding environment and live happily."