Let's go on a SAFARI!

Now, you've heard of big cities being called "Urban Jungles" but how about throwing an "Urban Safari" into the mix? That's right. Safari-like styles are beginning to make an appearance this Spring/Summer '13. However, don't think that safari styles mean you have to wear bold animal prints or crazy African-like patterns - it means just the opposite. This trend is aimed more toward men who aren't comfortable wearing those bold prints and flashy patterns. Having more of an earthy feel to it, this "urban safari" uprising is more focused on use of olive greens, khaki, or ochre (light yellow/brown/red) for it's clothing; natural fabrics, such as cotton or silk are also found heavily incorporated as well. Now I think that the earthy feel is what I enjoy most about this style. It kind of has a subtlety that is needed every now and then. Sure it's nice to stand out and maybe bring attention to what you're wearing, but sometimes it's best to stay under the radar and simply enjoy wearing an outfit for yourself and not for others.
Now, here's my attempt at this trend. In the photo you can see me wearing a khaki sleeveless coat with multi-pocket detail and a belted front. Some people are a little turned off by this style, but I personally loved it. Instead of the belt that the coat came with, I decided to kind of make it my own and use a vintage Christian Dior tie that I had lying around my room. I paired the coat with some navy blue chino shorts and a navy blue v-neck that I got from American Apparel. Overall it was a pretty simple look to throw together, and I wouldn't mind wearing a similar style again at some point. Now, if you're interested in trying it out or reading more about it, HERE is an article from Fashionbeans which contains the full story, plus some additional outfit inspirations. Thanks for dropping by!

Mix & Match

Before you say anything, I know, I know, this look is completely a winter or fall look. The warm colors, the thick coat, the earthy tones... They all scream cold weather. However! One thing that you might not consider is how easily you can change that up. Replace the navy anorak with a navy t-shirt or v-neck and you have a completely different look. The desert boots are a personal favorite as well (I have four pair) and you can easily find many different colors and styles on the +ASOS site. I'm not sure how I feel about the all-brown rucksack pictured above, but I am ALL OVER the navy canvas rucksack with the lighter brown accent on the pockets, close, and base of the bag. How would you change up this look to make it spring & summer appropriate?

Rainy Day Apparel

The one thing that I love about this look is how simple it is. Some people might contest that the converse are a bit too childish for the sophistication of the coat and formal look of the dark denim, but I think that it would be TOO dressy if there were any other shoes with the outfit. The +Nixon Watches makes the outfit a bit more clean and crisp which I personally enjoy, and the same goes for the white button-down. Overall I think this outfit has a sort of air that resembles a "I tried, but not too hard" attitude which is perfect for rainy weather. Since the rain changes our attitude and desire to wear more relaxing clothing with a laid back attitude, I think that thing collection of clothing exudes just that.