In the corners of our minds, we often associate Africa with poverty, epidemics, hunger, war, ignorance, and heat. However, in the Congo region of Africa, there is a striking group of fashion "infidels", who wear first-class fashion, walk the streets in exquisite leather shoes, carry classic bags, and seem to be walking through the fashion stage.
First, the unique pursuit of "fashion pioneer".
The Congo region is divided into the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with the capital Brazzaville and Kinshasa as distinctions. The "fashion pioneers", the members of the "Sapp Association", gathered around the two cities.
In the land of rivers and lakes, gang battles are indispensable. Just like the disputes in martial arts**, the "Sapp Association" in Brazzaville and Kinshasa will also fight openly and covertly, fighting their own battles. Although the more than 6,000 members claim that "Sapu" stands for "the elegant man who sets the atmosphere", their pursuit of fashion is different.
The "old aristocracy" from Brazzaville admired simplicity and elegance, following the iron rule of "no more than three colours". Sapp lovers who fail to follow this rule at the party will be ridiculed for their lack of gentlemanly demeanor. Kinshasa's "reformists", on the other hand, are more interested in exaggerated and eye-catching colors, believing that bold and appropriate combinations are the real fashion.
Despite their differences in dressing styles, the two factions were able to seek common ground while reserving differences in "friendly exchanges". The shared belief is that elaborate clothing can bring a little solace and sustain them in a difficult life.
Second, the "fashionista" of the bottom life
The vast majority of "fashionistas" live at the bottom of society, from market vendors to taxi drivers to ordinary company employees, and although their income is not high, the name brands on their bodies must be genuine, even second-hand goods are better than fakes.
These fashion-loving people may live in crumbling shacks and do hard work, but once they have leisure time, they transform into the most gorgeous "street walkers", concave in the streets, enjoying the envy of passers-by. For the sake of the highlight moment, they become experienced "local eaters", and some even embezzle family funds to buy luxury goods, causing the family to fall into bankruptcy.
It is difficult for many people to understand this extreme behavior of slapping a swollen face and becoming fat. Some people believe that these "fashionistas" not only squander their family property, but even borrow money to shop, and are extremely irresponsible to their families. However, this group of people is full of self-confidence, and their criticism of the outside world still goes its own way, and their faith and love seem to be only an excuse for vanity and selfishness.
3. The historical origin of "fashion".
The word "fashion" derives from the French word for "sapper" and its origins with "fashionista" can be traced back to the beginning of the last century.
In the early 20th century, with the advancement of the Industrial Revolution, countries such as Germany, the Ottoman Empire, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire competed with the British Empire, the Russian Empire and other countries for colonial interests, causing conflicts. In the midst of this contradiction, Congo (Brazzaville), as a French colony, sent a large number of young soldiers to Europe to participate in the First World War.
Deeply influenced by French culture, these soldiers returned home to spread French dressing styles and Xi to the Congo, leaving the locals in awe. One of the most admired is Andrei Masuwa, known as the "Great Soldier". His followers called themselves "Sarp" by the French word for "soldier".
However, 40 years later, Belgian Congo declared independence, and the new ** banned residents from wearing Western clothes, resulting in the "fashionista" being subjected to **. This timing prompted a revolt led by the singer Papawimba. During the performance, Papa called on people to "dress elegantly" and personally showed what it was like to wear a suit. The campaign received an enthusiastic response, which eventually led to the abandonment of the ban and the victory of the Sapp Society. This movement is not only a fashion pursuit, but also a reflection of the Congolese people's quest for freedom and rights.
Fourth, the power of fashion.
Today, the tolerance of multiculturalism is increasing, and the Sapp culture has conquered more people with its pursuit of refinement. Around the world, young people learn about this culture through documentaries, fashion magazines and music videos, and spontaneously join it. In 2015, Sapp lovers were even invited to Paris Fashion Week, marking the end of their years of perseverance.
As Tang Bohu said: "Others laugh at me for being too crazy, and I laugh at others who can't see through it." In poor Mid-West Africa, most people may not be able to understand the persistence of these "fashionistas" as they traverse the fashion desert. But the happiness of this group of people stems from the attachment to love, and the joy of saving hope with love cannot be understood.
This article introduces the unique "fashionista" culture of the Congo region of Africa in simple terms, and gives readers a new understanding of this region that is traditionally considered poor and backward. The author uses vivid language and detailed descriptions to show the unique pursuit of fashion in the daily life of these "fashionistas", as well as the various challenges they experience at the bottom of society.
First of all, the article presents the diversity and uniqueness of this community through the introduction of the "fashionista" group. From Brazzaville to Kinshasa, the "fashionistas" of different cities show the diversity of fashion in different fashion styles and pursuits. This culture has spread throughout the Congo region and has become a unique way of life that transcends traditional cultural and social boundaries.
Secondly, the article vividly depicts the persistence of this group of "fashionistas" in life. Despite living at the bottom of society, their pursuit of famous brands and fashion has never wavered. This obsession with fashion has even led to irresponsible behaviors such as loan installments and misappropriation of family funds. However, it is also a reflection of their genuine love for fashion and their desire to find spiritual solace in the midst of a difficult life.
The historical origins section of the article provides readers with a deeper understanding. From the experiences of Congolese soldiers on the battlefields of Europe after World War I to the rise of the "fashionista" culture, this historical process reflects both the impact of the colonial era and the Congolese people's quest for freedom and rights. Behind this is not only a unique understanding of fashion, but also a rebellion and an insistence on self-identity.
Finally, the article summarizes the influence of "fashionista" culture in a positive way. In today's globalized world, this culture is gradually attracting more attention and recognition from young people. The experience of participating in Paris Fashion Week shows that this group is no longer confined to the Congo region, but spreads to the world through various **. Such a transformation is not only the inheritance of Congolese culture, but also the tolerance and respect for multiculturalism.
Overall, this article presents readers with a vibrant and unique glimpse of the Congo region of Africa through a vivid depiction of the "fashionista" culture. Through an in-depth analysis of the historical origins and cultural influences behind this community, it not only broadens readers' understanding of Africa, but also provokes reflections on cultural diversity and respect.
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