La Sape, an abbreviation based on the phrase Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes (French; literally "Society of Ambiance-Makers and Elegant People") and hinting to the French slang word sape which means "clothes" or sapé, which means "dressed up", is a subculture centered on the cities of Kinshasa and Brazzaville in the Democratic...

Oct 9, 2020 · Often referred to as “dandies” of the Congo, “sapeurs” and “sapeuses” are men, women and children whose sharp and stylish way of dressing has caught the world’s attention.

Sep 28, 2020 · Some residents of the twin Congolese capitals of Brazzaville and Kinshasa have long been known for their love of stylish dressing - in particular members of the Society of Ambience-Makers and...

May 7, 2013 · Congolese men who worked for the French colonizers, or who spent time in France, began adopting that country's sartorial elegance and aristocratic affect.

Nov 9, 2012 · Some Sapeurs boast of spending $5,000 on a single suit. Imitations are not tolerated. The attention to detail by "les Saps" tends to include a focus on jewelry, embroidery and color. Known as...

Oct 16, 2019 · Discover the Sapeurs during your travels to the Congo; a dazzling subculture of impeccably dressed Congolese men & women for whom fashion is a way of life.

Feb 6, 2025 · The movement expanded to Europe with Congolese migration, in the 1970s and 1980s, where sapeurs reinterpreted European fashion — often incorporating vibrant colours and eccentric details — turning style into a tool of subversion.

Jan 12, 2024 · This movement began during the colonial period when Congolese servants encountered French and Belgian fashion styles through their employment with colonial rulers. Following independence, this exposure transformed into a distinct fashion subculture.

There are currently at least 6000 Sapeurs across the Democratic of Congo but most reside in the country’s capital, Kinshasa, where they act as ambassadors not just for the country but the continent. When they walk down the streets, the city comes to …

Nov 18, 2019 · As a way of fighting inequality, Congolese workers would use European style, but mix it with African fashion. From generation to generation, Sapeurs have showcased suave suits, colourful bow ties, and scarves.