Guest Post by Wendy Wangui
It is no secret that technology, smartphones and social media have changed the way we travel, dress and pretty much how we do almost everything. The norm has become ‘if it is not caught on camera then it did not happen.’ This also comes with the added pressure of striking a balance between looking our best and being comfortable while traveling. Luckily social media offers plenty of opportunities to inspire our inner chic wanderlust.
Safaris are not just trips we go on to see animals and be one with nature, they are also an opportunity to get creative with your style. Like planning around the weather, or appropriate outfits to fit the cultural context, you have to plan your safari outfits too.
I cannot overemphasize dressing for the occasion and when it comes to safari travel; failing to dress accordingly can actually affect your trip (Quote me Hahaha). Most safari travel destinations offer luxury in spades, so you do need a few good outfits to match that ambiance. Don’t waste any space in your luggage with outfits you do not love.
There is no better time to bring out earthy colourways, prints, khaki, cargo and a great hat.
If you are going on a safari and are in complete panic mode about what to wear, do not be. Here are a few easily replicable looks I loved to help you dress for the wild…
1.Silk Print Set
There is no rule against trying to blend in with the animals. Animal print fabric is quite bold and is sure to make you stand out. The silky soft material is great for those long scenic game drives. A comfortable fit without compromising your style. If you are extra like me, pair it with some minimal gold Jewellery and you are set to make a statement.
Instagram @lavierabydesign
2. Cargo Set
If you see someone wearing cargo you know they mean business. Nothing screams safari chic than a well-fitting cargo ensemble. Cargo pants are a comfortable and exciting choice to create an unsurpassed outfit. There is a reason why Karen Blixen is wearing cargo all through the movie “Out of Africa.” Pairing cargos with accessories in the same colour definitely pulls the entire look together. A pair of boots whether ankle boots or even Doc Martens are the best way to go.
3. The White Shirt
For a long time, we have been finding ways to make the white shirt more than just an item to wear to the office. A safari is yet another way to unleash your white shirt, trust me there is no better way to brave the heat in the savanna. Take it a notch higher and style the shirt with a printed skirt. Truth be told, you spend most of your time sitting in the car and being driven around so you might as well look pretty while you are at it.
Instagram @ya7ska
4. The Tracksuit
Of course, like in all other travel, comfort is key. Track suits seem to have stood the test of time in fashion by constantly making a comeback with tons of colours and materials to choose from. Morning game drives tend to start quite early, so it is obviously chilly; the track suit is your one stop shop for comfort and warmth during those chilly mornings. Put on a pair of boots and take this outfit from basic to chic. It is both comfy and fashionable.
Instagram @mihlalii_n
5. Dress It Up
There is absolutely no reason to leave your dresses at home. Not only do you get to laze around the camp or glamp ( glamorous camping) all day when you are not out on drives or walks. So do bring sleeveless dresses and accessories like belts to elevate the look and get more wear out of a single dress. Don’t be afraid to bring some wedges to wear to the cosy dinners.
Instagram @emjay_004
6. The Jumpsuit
It would be criminal of me not to highlight the timeless khaki Jumpsuit. This piece is definitely the poster child for Safari style. One piece and you look like you have it all together. A brown or Jungle green are the best options to opt for. Having it a little cinched at the waist is sure to highlight anyone’s curves. Throw on a pair of Knee-High boots to elevate the look, effortlessly taking it from the streets to the wild.
Instagram @maureenk_ foley
- Leather! Yes you read that right
Who said leather can not be taken to the wild? Like seriously who? Because I have never heard of that. Plain leather is great, but a snake print skirt is to die for. Paring it with subtle brown tones will have you looking like a fashion faithful. The coat and the hat add a touch of elegance to this bold look. Be sure to carry your leather pieces with you on your next safari, the pairing possibilities are endless.
Instagram @maureenk_ foley
Hope you enjoyed these looks as much as I did. Getting to travel and looking good while doing it is definitely one thing everyone should experience. There is no time to be bored in a world as beautiful as this and especially in a boring outfit. Getting great picture of the scenery and some of yourself makes it all worthwhile. So, go forth and slay your next Safari.
8. The shirt dress
Shirt dresses are always an unsurpassed fit. This particular one comes down almost like a maxi dress (see photo below). A great way to make it pop in the wild is by pairing it with a chunky belt and boots. Keep it neutral to remain bold but still sophisticated.
Wendy Wangui is a Nairobi-based fashion stylist and social media strategist Instagram @wendywangui
You are SO inspiring! I have never considered myself capable of being “chic” but you have inspired me to give my wardrobe a little boost. Baby steps 🙂
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We can all be chic Diane, we just need to know where to go to find the right picks
Yes, I love it! And I love the “if it’s not caught on camera, it didn’t happen” lol, outfits are wear I struggle most. I want to look cute for pictures, but I am 100% a comfy clothes wearer. Love all of these outfits!
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It’s a balancing act, the comfort vs stylish dilemma
These are fun and stylish picks! That would definitely make a safari more exciting 🙂
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Glad you approve Megan
Um, WOAH! You nailed it! These outfits are fierce! I think I would go with the cargo, but tbh you have me wanting to try to rock them all now!
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The cargos are amazing but I’m sure you’ll look great in a few of the other looks as well
Every one of them look stylish, but the white shirt is still my number one choice. For me it looks comfy and simple.
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True Umiko, also anyone can pull that look off
In love with the look number 3 !!! Xx
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A classy look that one and so easy to pull off
See now I have an idea of how I will dress when go out on safari….so chic and safari. Who’d have thought! Love it!
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Yass! safari girl trip coming right up
The green overalls for me please <3
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I’m sure you’d look great in those Ildi
Next time we go on a safari I have to channel inspiration from these outfits! Love it!
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Yass Deb!
You have such a stylish wardrobe! And so many of the outfits look comfortable, too. I loved looking at your photos! Thank you for sharing 🙂
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Glad you loved it Brittany
Beautiful! The white shirt is always a classic (almost) wherever you go. Very stylish picks.
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True about the white shirt Anja
Wow! These outfits are amazing! I especially love the jumpsuit.
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Can’t go wrong with a jump suit
You make it look so easy! I’m trying to figure out how to get on a safari, post-pandemic. Hope I look this good!
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Jamie I hope you do make it to go on safari, I’m sure you’ll rock your looks
These are all great outfits but I especially love the classic white tshirt look!
Author
The white shirt is a favorite of many 🙂
So cool, I love all these ideas! I think the Cargo set or the animal print would be the top choices for me! The animal print certainly seems fitting for a safari!
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Yea you can never go wrong with a cool cargo set
These are beautiful, I haven’t been on a safari yet but I have given thought to what to wear to be comfortable but also cute in pictures. My favorite look is number 3, I feel like that top can be pulled off by anyone and paired with several other looks. The others are gorgeous too, but I’d have to build up my self confidence before wearing those!
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Number three is also one of my favourite ones and you are right about pairing it with different looks.
You look amazing! Love these loks and definitely need to rock them when I eventually go on safari.
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I’m sure you will look amazing 🙂
Cute for travel anywhere! But I am boring, my favorite is the white shirt 🙂
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The white shirt is a fave. of most
So many outfits to choose from! Love the khaki tracksuit and I never would have thought of wearing a white shirt! Such a great idea though. I’ll definitely be saving this for when I finally go on an African safari 🙂
You are ridiculously adorable and look GREAT! I love your suggestions and your blog, as I hope to go on a safari to Africa next year. So, your suggestions will come in handy! Thanks.
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I hope you enjoy your African Safari
the jumpsuit really cought my attention.