Summer Fashion Goes Wild: It’s a Jungle Out There

By Cady Childs

With the heat and humidity of summer setting in, we’re all wishing we could teletransport ourselves to a beachside resort with a cool ocean breeze. When that’s not an option, however, (and we’re jealous if it is!) making the hot and muggy city seem like an exotic getaway (and not in the “I’m in a bad neighborhood” kinda way) is always our go-to Plan B.  It may not change the climate, but, if we were on a tropical safari, we’re confident the spectacular wildlife would make up for a less than ideal weather. For those of us for whom a safari isn’t on the travel plans, though, who’s to say that the same effect can’t be had by bringing the wildlife to you.

Seen on the runway from designers such as Prada, Michael Kors and David Meister, new tropical and African-inspired prints have taken over apparel, accessories and even home décor. So, instead of running your air-conditioning on high for three months to keep your mind off the heat, try, instead, to embrace the Sub-Saharan-theme, humidity and all.

A runway hair style to keep you looking and feeling cool!

Betsy Johnson Stretch Beatle Ring, $45, betseyjohnson.com
This fun accessory looks great paired with khaki or cream colored fabrics, and adds a great flair of jungle flavor to any ensemble. Try a light, menswear styled shirtdress, chunky, studded wedge sandals and this Betsy Johnson ring to give this tropical trend an urban edge.

Ecote Twill Tape Camisole, $28, urbanoutfitters.com
This navy blue linen tunic, printed with acqua, yellow and bright pink butterfly-wing-textured leaves is a fun, jungle inspired addition to any wardrobe. For the more daring, this top looks great with deconstructed skinny jeans, or leather shorts. To keep it simple, couple it with cuffed khaki shorts or tuck it in to a pastel toned tulip skirt.

The must-have shorts of summer!

Peta2 ‘Elephants Never Forget’ Recycled Necklace, $20, petacatalog.com
Peta2, PETA’s youth animal rights group, works to keep young people aware of how they can work towards saving our endangered animals, which is something we’ll gladly support any day! We don’t just like this, though, because of its socially conscious platform, rather, this necklace, designed by Christy Robinson, is hand-carved from recycled aluminum and engraved with the campaign’s catch phrase, ‘Elephants Never Forget,’ making it a fashionable addition to any outfit, and a fun conversation starter.

Nine West ‘Cadette’ Sandal, $69.95, nordstrom.com
A new take on the gladiator style, this suede sandal, with a laced ankle cuff, available in cognac, black apache, and medium blue, looks safari ready, but with a sophisticated twist. The perfect footwear to pair with louder and brighter prints, the neutral tones and structured appearance of these sandals make them a must-have this summer.

In a new printed tunic, a beetle ring, an elephant chain or safari sandals, you’ll be looking cool no matter what the thermometer reads.

Sweat-proof your makeup! See how here!