Safari style is distinguished by a rare combination of properties: comfort and aristocracy are harmoniously intertwined in it, which is rarely found in other stylistic directions. For several decades in a row, these clothes have been classified as luxurious summer classics, suitable for both traveling and living in the city. Safari has many facets, this style is many-sided and outstanding: adventurous, brutal, respectable and chic at the same time. Versatile outfits are ideal for many life situations and, with the right approach, will help to diversify any woman's wardrobe, regardless of lifestyle, age and social status.
History of occurrence
In the 19th century, a large-scale exploration of the African continent began. Many English travelers and travelers went to Africa in search of adventure, thanks to them the safari style was born. At first, comfortable clothing in natural shades was used by hunters and scientists for its intended purpose, but in the 30s it suddenly became popular all over the world. This was made possible by the publication of a cycle of stories about Africa,written by Ernest Hemingway. After another 30 years, Yves Saint Laurent created a women's safari-style jacket, embellished with intricate lacing. Surprisingly, this outfit remains relevant today. The utilitarian chic was embraced by France's creative elite and ordinary urban dwellers, and the safari style quickly became the norm.
In 1985, the film "Out of Africa" was released with Meryl Streep in the title role. The film won an Oscar for Best Picture, the heroine's outfits were copied everywhere, and the safari style forever gained a reputation as the most romantic and adventurous style, ideally suited for adventure and travel.
Distinguishing Features
The safari organically intertwined features of sports style, colonial and military, and as a result, an absolutely independent fashion genre was formed. It clearly shows echoes of the style of military uniforms, individual details of the outfits of Indian colonists, as well as amateur athletes, but the characteristic elements make it possible to unmistakably define a safari. Here, in principle, dark colors are not used, only natural shades of green, gray and brown: khaki, sand, granite. Clothing and accessories use practical, non-marking tones, typical of the nature of the African continent.
To breathe new life into the traditional palette, designers have added some brighter shades: blue, white, terracotta. Thanks to this, the safari acquired sophistication and some pretentiousness, however, it became moresuitable for urban outfits. The main distinguishing features of the style are concise forms, durable natural materials, pockets and other practical details.
Iconic details
Several things are essential attributes of the safari style, they are most often seen in the photo, although they are often found in other fashion trends. One such piece is the jacket designed by Yves Saint Laurent: a beige, elongated jacket made of durable cotton fabric, embellished with chest pockets, lacing and complemented by a leather belt. In addition, safaris are characterized by shirt dresses with a belt, overalls, shorts with lapels, silk and cotton neckerchiefs, trousers with patch pockets.
Color palette
The style was born in Africa, where nature is penetrated by the sun's rays, hidden by partial shade and almost devoid of moisture, so the safari color palette is distinguished by light, calm, warm tones. The most popular shades are protective green and sandy beige. They are harmoniously complemented by shades of yellow, gray, red and brown. White is also allowed, but not bright, but with a slight undertone: creamy or creamy. Classic outfits use only muted colors, as if covered with a layer of dust, as befits travel clothes.
Recently, designers have expanded the boundaries of style and added blue elements that mimic the colors of the sky and water. The updated palette looks fresher and more modern thoughsomewhat lost its original essence. Attire, originally intended for travelers, has now adapted to urban conditions, becoming more elegant and diverse.
Clothes are made primarily from solid materials, but natural patterns such as animalistic and vegetable patterns are allowed. A small amount can be used in leopard or tiger colors, as well as imitating zebra or giraffe fur.
Dress styles
Classic safari-style shirtdresses are made from solid materials in beige or green and are usually knee-length. The silhouette is straight, sometimes slightly fitted and extended downwards. These dresses are fastened with buttons in front, complemented by a small turn-down collar, epaulettes on the shoulders and square patch pockets in the chest area. The clasp can be made along the entire length or only to the waist. As a rule, the style implies the presence of a belt, it can be made from the same fabric as the dress, as well as their leather or suede in a suitable shade. Thanks to the successful cut, comfortable design and practical details, safari dresses are very popular and, despite their simplicity, look romantic, feminine and stylish.
Shirt styles
As you can see in the photo, the safari style of clothing is not very diverse, however, this is what makes it so recognizable. Shirts are one of the main elements of this direction, as it allows you to create various fashionable ensembles, perfectlyPairs with trousers, jeans and skirts. Women's safari-style shirts are required to be equipped with square chest pockets and a turn-down collar with pointed or round ends. Such a model can be worn loose, supplemented with a belt or tucked into a belt. Most often, the shirt is worn on the naked body, but in cool weather it can be worn with a turtleneck in a suitable color: white, beige, green, brown or black.
Stylish shoes
Safari-style outfits are mostly summer clothes. Designers recommend complementing the outfit with low-cut gladiator sandals; this style is in perfect harmony with light dresses and shorts. Sandals on a high wedge fit both trousers and skirts. Shoes on a platform made of natural cork look harmonious and fully comply with the classic canons of style. For cool weather, lace-up boots with high or medium stable heels, as well as rough tractor soles, are suitable. Stiletto heels and narrow-toed shoes are not typical of the traditional safari style, however, urban fashionistas successfully combine these elements to create an unusual and eclectic look.
Accessories
The cork hat is a classic safari style item, and although it is still used by travelers, it is completely unsuitable for everyday life. More acceptable options are wide-brimmed wicker hats, as well as boaters and fedoras. You can complement the image with a stylish panama, sewn from plain fabric, as well astraditional African turban. Only one condition remains obligatory - all materials must be exclusively natural. Volumetric bags with long handles, made of dense textiles, genuine leather, suede or woven material, will organically complement the outfit and make it complete. Large jewelry made of natural stones and wood will complete the look.
Where to wear safari-style clothes
This destination is ideal for any type of travel: flights, train rides, hiking. The photo of women's clothing in the safari style clearly shows that the outfits are intended for relaxation and comfortable pastime. Also, things are comfortable for everyday wear, they harmoniously fit into a sporty casual style. Shorts with shirts, comfortable dresses and trousers with plenty of pockets are good for city and country walks. Safari style in women's clothing does not go well with glamorous details and categorically does not fit into a business dress code.
This comfortable and at the same time luxurious style is easily combined with ethnic, military and more traditional casual outfits. In its pure form, this direction is extremely rare, so do not be afraid of experiments. Pair African colonial outfits with your favorite pieces for fun, quirky, and surprisingly comfortable ensembles.
