The Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant Persons
99% Invisible
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Fashion as Resistance in Zaire
This chapter examines the legacy of Mobutu Sese Seko, focusing on his anti-colonial policies and their impact on national identity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It highlights the rise of the Sapeurs, a group that defied Mobutu's regime through extravagant fashion choices, illustrating the tensions between cultural pride and oppression. The narrative captures the blend of identity, rebellion, and ambiance that emerged from the complexities of Zairean culture amidst political turmoil.
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