Morning:
6°c
A word of warning before we get started on this season's infatuation with tribal prints: aspects of this trend — namely, the fact that it includes leopard-print — should be approached with great caution. That said, so vast and varied are the designs and colours encompassed in this distinctly wild way of dressing that if you get it right, it can work for you — whether Bet Lynch is your style icon or not.
The tribal theme exploded on to the catwalk in a host of different guises during the spring/summer shows. At Giambattista Valli, oversized leopard-print featured on playsuits and belted-dresses, while at Paul Smith, a less ferocious interpretation of animal skin found a home on miniskirts and shorts. Marc Jacobs, who went all out with ethnic-inspired printing techniques for his Marc by Marc collection, sent full skirts and trousers boasting clashing Aztec designs down the runway, and in London, PPQ designers Percy Parker and Amy Molyneux printed cutesy sundresses with vibrant geometric shapes.
And while this is a look that can be found all over the high street this summer — Oasis does a lovely tribal-print sundress and Wallis an amazing pair of zebra trousers — the most sophisticated tribal designs are to be found off the beaten track. Offering a more authentic take on the trend, Suno, a label formed by New York designer Max Osterweis, who spent 10 years researching textiles in Kenya before setting up his company in 2008, relies on tribeswomen in Kenya for both the fabric-sourcing and workmanship of his explosively colourful collections. And, closer to home, ASOS now works with a design team in Africa to create its dynamic ASOS Africa range.
But how to pull off the prints? Whatever your preference, a “more is more” philosophy is key. It may sound a little terrifying but muster up the courage to team a pair of printed harem trousers with a loose-fitting top in a clashing colour and you'll achieve a look that's directional and perfect for high summer. And if that's too bold a statement, dilute the colour by incorporating touches of beige or black. A linen jacket will take the garish edge off a loud pair of printed trousers, while a tribal-print dress makes a flattering summer wedding outfit if teamed with statement accessories.
But do watch out for that leopard-print.
Reader views (3)
Agree Anglo, they chose a very beautiful model here. Unusual they went for attractiveness instead of freakyness. Women with very like her cast and colouring of face in Malaysia and Indonesia wear brightly patterned, bold coloured jackets like these. Think that she and the jacket do something special for each other!
- Elaine, croydon, south london, 06/07/2010 15:34
Report abuse
The girl wearing the blazer was much more attractive to me than was the blazer. Made a pleasant change from most fashion models.
- Anglo, Sussex England, 06/07/2010 14:15
Report abuse
The main photo puts together bold and beautiful patterns and colours. Those designers are lucky with their launches this hot summer. Bright and colourful prints and fabrics look fantastic in the sunlight. Like they do in all tropical countries, but they look sad in drab weather and grey skies.
- Elain, croydon, south london, 06/07/2010 12:23
Report abuse
