Ethnic Prints and Tribal Trends

This summer, bright colors are making a spectacular comeback – and when we say "bright colors", ethnic prints and patterns are the next logical step. They're fierce, vibrant and energetic, they blend colors and style in a unique exotic mix and we're free to use them on basically everything we wear, from shoes to bags, dresses and scarves – provided we don't overdo it, of course.

It's quite easy to stay on the safe side of things if we follow some simple rules. For once, one piece of clothing or a visible accessory with colored, graphic patterns per outfit is more than enough; otherwise you'll end up looking like a character from The Flintstones. Also, all the other pieces in your outfit should have a rather tamer safari note – a straw hat, for instance, or a large cuff bracelet. Chunky necklaces with bits of colored wood or stone are just as good a match, as long as they don't clash with your ethnic print dress, skirt or bag.

Here are a few suggestions to help you choose wisely this summer. For the more timid ones among you, if striking red, white and green prints are a little too much, try your hand at donning a khaki safari dress, preferably made from lightweight cotton sateen and you will most certainly not go unnoticed. Add a couple of lacquered wooden bangles in tribal prints to bring a little variety to your outfit, or maybe a patterned charm belt. Be careful to avoid wearing any similar-patterned shoes or bags, or your foray into deep dark Africa will end in disaster.

Two more bold suggestions – in black and white this time – are a zebra or a giraffe print maxi dress. Maxi dresses are all the rage this summer – add a wild jungle print and you're on your way to a trendy, chic look that will also prove to be extra comfortable on a hot sunny day. Add an oversize straw hat and a pair of metallic flats, and you'll be queen for a day – queen of the jungle, that is. So, does any of these styles work for you? Give us your thoughts.


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