Roberto Cavalli
Every summer I purchase a “safari chic” item and return it within a week because, well, I’m not going on safari.
Safari chic looks so, so good when seen on the runway, but the key to wearing it in reality (unless you are actually going on safari) is not to take it too literally. Think printed maxi dresses that work just as well on the coast of Spain, or office appropriate shirt dresses. On the catwalk this season, I particularly loved Matthew Williamson’s blue print maxi and Holly Fulton’s bird print shirt dress, both of which have the versatility required when shopping the safari look. On the high street, look to Mint Velvet, M&S and Wallis for affordable safari style.
Other great ways to wear safari? Go for block colours such as tangerine and citron, while any neutrals in the form of khaki, beige and stone achieve that “explorer-blending-into-the-landscape” aesthetic. A classic white shirt tucked into a neutral skirt or chinos and teamed with a tan belt and sandals instantly achieves safari chic, and these are probably items you already have in your wardrobe. Throw on a chunky beaded necklace for a glam take on a timeless trend.
My top SS14 runway looks:
Matthew Williamson
Holly Fulton
Oscar de la Renta
Jenny Packham
Donna Karan
My top high street (and perhaps more wearable) looks:
M&S
Florence and Fred at Tesco
Missguided
Wallis
Mint Velvet
And my must-have safari chic piece this summer? This amazing kaftan by Karma on the Beach.
