Congolese Style

You've probably been wondering what people are wearing in the Congo these days. Well, wonder no more!

Trying to describe the trends of Congolese style is like trying to paint a still-life of a toddler. The Congolese are in the midst of modernization. With the advent of cell phones, motorcycles, Hollywood, Bollywood, and the fasions that comes with them, life for the people of the Northern Congo is changing. In addition to the influx of new stuff, Impfondo and other cities in the Republic of Congo have been flooded by refugees fleeing from the civil wars in their own countries. These peoples bring with them their own set of cultural standards and ways of life.

With this melding of cultures and the influence of western entertainment there is a wide variation of dress, from the Muslim burka to the booty-jeans plus halter-top.

Overall, though, I have noticed these three trends: the kids wear whatever they can get ahold of, the women wear colorfully patterned blouses and skirts, and the men wear whatever they want.

Typical Congolese women.

Lots of babies. Having a baby is stylish also.

Below is a picture of our wonderful cook, Mama Lyddi. she's whipping us up a batch of peanutbutter.

Elegant.

Keeping it classy. Also "Flippin' Sweet."

And when in doubt, a picture of the president is always a safe bet. That's Dr. Wegner on the right. His shirt, if you look closely, encourages timeliness. 

This Aka woman was more than willing to pose in her jungle habitat. These Muslim ladies were a little less excited about being photographed. 

Like I said before, the men wear whatever they want. 

Here are few examples of English t-shirts that may or may not be understood by the wearers.

And he probably did. 

All said and done, dress in the Congo is certainly colorful, albeit a little distracting. But I like it.

I miss you all.

Danny