On the second of August 2025, Masq London transformed into a radiant scene of cultural pride and expressive fashion as Elevate Your Style returned for its ninth episode. From 12pm, the venue brimmed over with some of the most regally dressed trend setters and creatives from the global Black community. The theme, ‘Colour of Elegance: The Art of Sapeur’, called every loyal attendee to gather — not just to dress, but to remember, to honour, and to express.
The August gathering themed ‘Colour of Elegance: The Art of Sapeur’ was powered by Twelve19Styles - a distinguished African men’s fashion brand and brainchild of Michael Okunloro.
Hosted by the ever charismatic Micki aka Baba Alaso, the day was alive with purpose. British Ghanaian artist Mista Silva, alongside his British Nigerian counterpart T Brixson, blessed the room with live performances from their latest hits, setting a celebratory tone that matched the occasion.
But beyond the glamour and the sound, the heart of Elevate Your Style pulsed with something deeper. As the event unfolded, it became clear this was not just another fashion event. It was the living manifestation of the idea of a safe space created intentionally for multifaceted individuals of color, who use their personal style as a tool for expression across different sectors.
That was the heartbeat of the day. From the glowing suits to the layered textures of traditional prints, to the curated fashion statements that lit up the room - this was fashion as a testimony, not just taste.
To Everyone That Made The Day - Thank You
The event became even more memorable thanks to our partners. Mobkilishi - a delicious premium beef snack - satisfied guests with their signature flavour. King Luxe Perfume gifted every attendee with a signature scent; a fragrance that gathers attention the moment it enters a room.
Our media team captured every magic moment. At the helm of videography was Mbachan M of Aceart Media; while photography came to life through the eyes of Ige Olabode, Laminar Studios, and Juneepictures. Every guest also got a professional headshot from Darius, ensuring everyone left with a keepsake to remember the occasion.
Then at 4pm, the community stormed London with one of the most iconic visuals yet - a style walk to Tower Bridge. It was a moment that stopped time. Tourists paused, phones lifted, and heads turned as Black creatives marched through the city in a display of unapologetic beauty and brilliance. It was Black elegance in motion; visible, powerful, and unforgettable.
The Art of Sapeur — Why This Matters
The tribute to Sapologie was not chosen lightly. The Sapeur movement was born in the Congo during the 1920s, a time marked by French colonialism and economic oppression. But out of struggle, the people created expression. Sapeurs took the style of the colonizers and transformed it. With bold colours, sharp suits, and polished appearances, they turned fashion into resistance.
Sapologie was coined from the term ‘La Sapes’ - Societe des Ambiance Makers et des Personnes Elegantes, and it became more than fashion. It became a philosophy. A way of walking in dignity even when the world tried to strip it away.
When Congolese migrants moved to Europe in the 1970s, they brought the fire along with them. They adapted and evolved, interweaving African pride with European tailoring. Everywhere they went, they wore their story with elegance.
Elevate Your Style Episode 9 honoured this lineage. Every look, every pose, every step on Tower Bridge was a nod to the movement that made fashion a voice for freedom.
A Movement That Keeps Growing
Since our first edition in September 2023, Elevate Your Style has evolved from a small gathering of fashion forward men into a global community.
In the summer of 2024, we celebrated West African culture and identity. In December, we honoured the Afro Caribbean legacy of the ‘90s. Last April, we drew from the MET Gala’s theme of Dandyism. And now in August, we paid tribute to the Sapeur movement - an art form that still speaks today.
Two outstanding creatives curated the look books from this edition. The men's look book was curated by Felix J. Prince Kankwamba, a creative with a background in education, arts, outreach, and community engagement. Felix is also the founder of RepeatOutfitOffender and host of ‘Why Didn’t You Tell Me’ — a podcast that explores untold brilliance in our everyday stories.
The women's look book was curated by Kayleigh Benoit, founder of Bind London - a premium activewear brand. She is also a lecturer at London College of Fashion and a respected fashion historian.
What Comes Next
As the embers from Episode 9 still glow, one thing is clear: this is more than a moment. This is momentum.
We gathered in elegance. We walked with purpose. We created together.
And the fire we lit at Masq London and Tower Bridge will only burn brighter at the next Elevate Your Style.
We look towards thrilling and sensitizing the global fashion and creative network yet again. And we beckon you to step beyond mere curiosity and the juicy news. Join our exciting community to style the world and make a powerful difference today.
Until then, keep using your style. Not just to be seen. But to be heard.
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