The safari style dates back to the 19th century, when European explorers began to arrive en masse on the African continent in order to study the life of the indigenous population and hunt exotic animals. That is why it received such a name and is translated from Swahili as travel.
The climate, unusual for Europeans, prompted travelers to reconsider their wardrobe for African adventures. Under the scorching sun of Africa, clothing in loose and comfortable styles made from natural, breathable materials with a large number of functional pockets and belts that allow you to take everything you need with you becomes an escape from the heat.
Considerable interest in the mysterious black continent was fueled by Hemingway's stories about Africa, after reading which residents of Europe and America rushed to get there and get new impressions. Having tried on new, lightweight clothes during the trip, they continued to wear fashionable styles in their native lands.
In the middle of the last century, practical items made of cotton and linen attracted the attention of the famous designer and haute couture trendsetter Yves Saint Laurent, who introduced the safari style in his new collection. Since then, fashionistas of various ages and sizes have been trying on the image of urban hunters with great pleasure.
Until recently, clothes of this style could be recognized by the absence of prints and patterns. Modern designers have diversified the slightly boring mass with prints copying the skin of desert inhabitants - zebra, leopard, tiger, giraffe.
Comfortable cut and styles that do not restrict movement. In such clothes it is not only comfortable to travel, but also easier to bear the heat.
The presence of a large number of functional elements. Safari-style clothing is often richly decorated with patch pockets, belts and sashes, laces and large buttons.
Accessories in this style are simple and functional. Bags should be roomy and have many pockets, shoes should be comfortable and stable. Accessories can be decorated with fringe or heavy buckles. It is acceptable to use different neckerchiefs.
African hunters' style jewelry includes beads, earrings and bracelets made from natural materials: wood, stone, bone. Accessories brought from the African continent will fit perfectly. However, for this style the number of decorations should be minimal.
Although most safari-style looks are distinguished by their monochrome, the color scheme characteristic of this trend allows designers to show their imagination.
Natural matte shades that favorably emphasize the texture of natural materials have been and remain trendy colors. This color range allowed hunters in the African deserts to remain invisible and blend into the surrounding landscape.
Among the shades of green, it is preferable to choose olive and marsh colors, dark green and protective, as well as the color of dry grass. Basic colors include various shades of beige, as well as gray and its earthy shades. The brightest tones in the images of African travelers can be terracotta and mustard.
Some designers are especially bold and add bright accents to this style using rich blue, yellow or green colors, and sometimes even pink details.
In addition, today on the catwalks you can find white and black colors that are not typical for this style, as well as shiny fabrics.
The use of animal prints in clothing of this trend helps to create predatory and daring female images. These motifs make the look glamorous, allowing you to add stylish gold jewelry and wide bracelets.