Safari style is characterized by a rare combination of properties: comfort and aristocracy are harmoniously intertwined in it, which is not often found in other stylistic directions. For several decades in a row, these clothes are classified as luxurious summer classics, suitable for traveling and for living in the city. Safari has many faces, this style is many-sided and outstanding: adventurous, brutal, respectable and chic at the same time. Universal outfits are ideal for many life situations and with a competent approach will help to bring diversity to any women's wardrobe, regardless of lifestyle, age and social status.
History of occurrence
In the 19th century, a large-scale study of the African continent began. Many English travelers and travelers went to Africa in search of adventure, thanks to them the safari style appeared. At first, comfortable clothing in natural shades was used by hunters and scientists for their intended purpose, but in the 30s it suddenly became popular all over the world. This was made possible by the publication of a series of stories about Africa written by Ernest Hemingway. After another 30 years, Yves Saint Laurent created a women's jacket in the style of a safari, decorated with intricate lacing. Surprisingly, this outfit remains relevant today. The creative elite and the ordinary urban inhabitants of France fell in love with this utilitarian chic, and the safari style quickly became an everyday norm.
In 1985, the film "From Africa" was released with Meryl Streep in the title role. The film won the Academy Award for Best Film, the heroine’s outfits began to be copied everywhere, and the safari style forever established a reputation as the most romantic and adventurous style, ideally suited for adventure and travel.
Distinctive features
The safari organically interwoven features of sports style, colonial and military, and as a result an absolutely independent fashion genre was formed. Echoes of a military uniform style, individual details of the outfits of Indian colonists, as well as amateur athletes are clearly visible in it, but the characteristic elements make it possible to accurately determine the safari. Dark colors are basically not used here, only the natural shades of green, gray and brown: khaki, sand, granite. The clothes and accessories use practical, non-marking tones characteristic of the nature of the African continent.
To breathe new life, designers introduced several brighter shades into the traditional palette: blue, white, terracotta. Thanks to this, the safari acquired sophistication and some pretentiousness, however, it became more convenient for urban outfits. The main distinguishing features of the style are conciseness of forms, durable natural materials, the presence of pockets and other practical details.
Significant Details
Several things are integral attributes of safari style, they are most often present in the photo, although they are often found in other fashionable directions. These items include a jacket created by Yves Saint Laurent: a beige, elongated jacket made of durable cotton fabric, decorated with chest pockets, lacing and complemented by a leather belt. In addition, safari dresses 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 penetrated by the sun's rays, is hidden by penumbra and almost devoid of moisture, therefore the safari color palette is distinguished by light, calm, warm colors. The most popular shades are protective green and sand-beige. They are harmoniously complemented by shades of yellow, gray, red and brown. Also allowed is white, but not bright, but with a slight undertone: cream or cream. In classic dresses, only muted colors are used, as if covered with a layer of dust, as befits clothing for travel.
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 more fresh and modern, although it has somewhat lost its original essence. The outfits that were originally intended for travelers have now adapted to urban conditions, have become more elegant and varied.
Clothing is made mainly from plain materials, but natural patterns, such as animalistic and floral, are allowed. In a small amount, a leopard or tiger color can be used, as well as imitating zebra or giraffe fur.
Dress styles
Classic safari shirt dresses are made from plain beige or green materials, usually knee-length. The silhouette is straight, sometimes slightly fitted and extended downward. Such dresses are fastened with buttons on the front, complemented by a small turn-down collar, shoulder straps 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 of the same fabric as the dress, as well as their skin or suede in a suitable shade. Thanks to a successful cut, comfortable design and practical details, safari dresses are very popular and, despite their simplicity, look romantic, feminine and stylish.
Shirts
As you can see in the photo, the style of safari in clothes 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, goes well with pants, and jeans, and with skirts. Women's safari shirts are required to be equipped with square chest pockets and a turn-down collar with sharp or round ends. This model can be worn out, padded with a belt or tucked into a belt. Most often, a shirt is worn on a naked body, but in cool weather it can be worn with a turtleneck of a suitable color: white, beige, green, brown or black.
Stylish shoes
Safari outfits are mainly summer clothes. Designers recommend complementing clothes with gladiator sandals with a low fastener, this style is in perfect harmony with light dresses and shorts. Sandals on a high platform sole approach both trousers, and to 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. Studs and narrow-nosed shoes are uncharacteristic for the traditional safari style, however, urban fashionistas successfully combine these elements to create an unusual and eclectic look.
Accessories
A hat made of balsa wood is a classic element of the safari style, and although it is still used by travelers, it is completely unsuitable for everyday life. More acceptable options are woven hats with wide brim, as well as boater and fedora. You can complement the look with a stylish panama, sewn from plain fabric, as well as a traditional African turban. Only one condition remains mandatory - all materials must be exclusively natural. Voluminous bags with long handles made of thick textile, genuine leather, suede or wicker material will organically complement the outfit and make it holistic. Large jewelry made of natural stones and wood will complete the image.
Where to wear safari-style items
This destination is ideal for traveling in any format: flights, train trips, hiking. In the photo of women's clothing in the safari style, it is clearly visible that the outfits are intended for relaxation and comfortable hanging out. Also, things are convenient for everyday wear, they harmoniously fit into a sporty casual style. Shorts with shirts, comfortable dresses and pants with lots of pockets are good for city and country walks. The style of safari in women's clothing does not fit well with the glamorous details and does not categorically fit into the business dress code.
This comfortable and at the same time luxurious style can be easily combined with outfits of ethnic, military and a more traditional casual. In its pure form, this direction is extremely rare, so do not be afraid of experiments. Combine the outfits of African colonists with your favorite things, and as a result you will certainly get interesting, unusual and surprisingly comfortable ensembles.