Well dressed in the Congo - Sapeurs (2014)

[MrBern]

Guinness Short on dapper Sapeurs in the Congo (2014)

In this documentary we illustrate the brightly coloured and social affairs that bring the 'Sapeurs' together. Their bold choice to live an unexpected lifestyle is a source of celebrated originality and positivity. Their life is not defined by occupation or wealth, but by respect, a moral code and an inspirational display of flair and creativity. The Sapeurs show us that whilst in life you cannot always choose your circumstances, you can always choose who you are.

[video=youtube;CScqFDtelrQ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CScqFDtelrQ[/video]

 

[MrBern]

and a Guinness advert(2014)

In this ad, GUINNESS follows the Sapeurs whose way of life is a testament to the belief of putting more in, to get more out. Their life is not defined by occupation or wealth, but by respect, a moral code and an inspirational display of flair and creativity. This is demonstrated through their love of stylish dressing; but it is not the fabric or cost of the suit that counts, it is the worth of the man inside it.

[video=youtube;B-3sVWOxuXc]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-3sVWOxuXc[/video]

 

[jamespowers]

I like it! Here we have the Society for backward baseball caps, buffalo sandals and short pant hippies. :doh:

 

[The Good]

Ever since I've first heard of them, I've liked this movement. Is it a status symbol to dress like this in Congo, or are they perceived as an eccentric subculture?

 

[Worf]

Well you don't have to go far to find the same thing here... The same basic principles, use of evocative/outlandish dress as a surrogate for violence is found with the Mardi Gras Indian traditions in New Orleans.... Interesting to see the traditions possible African roots. Thanks for sharing..

Worf

 

[MrBern]

Ever since I've first heard of them, I've liked this movement. Is it a status symbol to dress like this in Congo, or are they perceived as an eccentric subculture?

Thats a good question.
Another good question is how much of this commercial expresses the reality & not just hype?
Too bad nobody here is from the Congo to tell us.
BTW, there a short WIKI entry on this relating it to Frnch Colonialism & Dandyism.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Sape

This music video is also referenced as an influence on the Guiness advert
[video=youtube;Hy9W_mrY_Vk]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy9W_mrY_Vk[/video]