If there's any trend that's back with a vengeance to inspire our summer 2015 wardrobes, it's undoubtedly safari inspired fashion. Did it ever go away, though? Perhaps it just sunk its gleaming claws deeper into the fashion industry's flesh this season. Some of my favorite fashion photography features models on safari in incredible outfits and surrounded by nature. In particular, I love the whole Lion King vibe that they achieve when they pose with big cats and other wildlife, though these can sometimes raise issues of animal welfare.
Safari style is comprised of a color scheme of beige, creams, browns, and khaki. There can also be a sprinkling of animal print pieces, as long as they are inspired by animals you might realistically find on a safari rather than say, a dalmatian. Throw into the mix utility garments and items that might come in useful on a swelteringly hot adventure in the wilderness, and you've cracked it.
One of my favorite safari inspired dressers is the eccentric king of chap hop Professor Elemental. The Prof. takes inspiration from the subcultures of steampunk and Victoriana and mixes these influences together with a dash of gentleman on safari. Professor Elemental is a comedic, hip hop performance artist and I have been lucky enough to see him play live. He even has his own blend of tea, which is inspired by his gorilla butler Geoffrey. The performance I observed contained horse head masks and galloping, some intelligently improvised rap, plus an appearance by Geoffrey himself. It was phenomenal.
Join me on a fashion safari and take pride in your wild wardrobe.
1. The Classic Safari Shirt
Crop Tank Top, $32, Etsy
If you are going to enter the ruthless and unforgiving fashion safari, you must have a safari shirt. It is an absolute safari staple because not only will it give you instant, Lara Croft explorer vibes but it will literally go with everything.
2. The Safari Skort
Textured Wrap Skort, $68, Top Shop
When you're on safari and possibly being chased down by a pride of lions, or when you're at your favorite designer's sample sale surrounded by a pack of agitated women, you're gonna' need a skort. They are feminine yet functional so you can duck and weave to your heart's content without giving anyone a flash of your panties.
3. The Safari Jumpsuit
Pull&Bear 70's Safari Print Jumpsuit, $54, ASOS
This jumpsuit is a must for anyone who wants to channel the more glamorous side of safari style and embody safari chic.
4. The Designer Safari Dress
Karen Millen Signature Safari Dress, $326, ASOS
This investment piece is for all the ladies out there who like their fashion high end. So if you want to look stunning in safari style then get your paws on a classic, utility dress in a khaki shade.
5. The Zebra Print Heel
Dance&Style Women's Stiletto Heels, $47-65, Amazon
To really get a sophisticated safari look, sport a court shoe in your favorite safari animal print. This zebra print pair is totally sassy and has a strong Scary Spice vibe about it.
6. The Safari Hat
PU Contrast Band Fedora Hat, $48, Top Shop
Get your Indiana Jones on in this fabulous fedora, which is fit for even the most intrepid explorers.
7. The Leopard Print Playsuit
Jersey Jumpsuit, $18, H&M
This leopard print playsuit is a safari style steal and will have you looking like the cat's whiskers.
8. The Safari Sweater
Yellow Safari Sweatshirt, $16, Etsy
Keep cozy on cool evenings in the urban jungle with this awesome vintage sweater, complete with safari animals on the front.
9. The Safari Swimsuit
Blue Life Safari Strappy One-Piece Swimsuit, $165, Urban Outfitters
Can't decide on your favorite safari animal? Well, with this swimsuit you don't have to. It features a print that, IMO, is reminiscent of zebra, tigers, and leopards. It also boasts an intricate strap back and sides so you can give safari style a sultry twist. Miaow!
10. The Safari Studs
Safari Post Earring Set, $10, Urban Outfitters
Now how could anyone say no to these super cute earrings? My favorite pair has got to be the tiny giraffes because they're so adorable but they're also kind of hilarious — I mean, who's ever heard of a giraffe smaller than your finger? Giraffes are totally trendy right now.
11. The Safari Jacket
Safari Jacket, $80, Zara
Wild thing, I think I love you. A safari adventurer's look is not complete without a staple safari jacket. This casual style from Zara makes it easy to look effortlessly cool while keeping cool; its flowing shape and 3/4 length sleeves will allow you to stay easy and breezy in the summer sun.
Look totally roarsome in these safari inspired pieces fit for a jungle queen.
Images: shop_alexis/Instagram; iammoog/YouTube; Giphy; Courtesy Brands
