The Vibrant World of Congolese Saphors

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Exploring the flamboyant style and colorful fashion choices of the Congolese Saphors, their rise in popularity among artists and designers, and the historical significance of defying stereotypes through fashion. Delving into the societal pressure to conform to European customs during Belgian colonization, particularly focusing on the 'avolué' status validation tests. Highlighting the influence of black American jazz musicians on the fashion culture of Congolese Roomba artists in the 1940s and the emergence of the Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant Persons.

Hailing from central African cities of Brazzaville and Kinshasa, sapeurs have become increasingly recognizable around the world. Since the 1970s, sapeurs (from: le sape, short for "Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes") have been known for donning technicolored three-piece suits with flamboyant accessories like golden walking sticks and leopard-print fedoras, and then cat-walking through their city streets.

In recent years, Solange, Kendrick and SZA have all featured sapeurs in their music videos. The iconic British menswear designer Paul Smith did a whole spring line of sapeur-inspired suits and bowler hats.

The Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant Persons