It’s a jungle out there

Cool khaki separates and fierce animal prints spell a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for late summer. Katie Wright spots the big five trends of the safari fashion look

Summer may be almost over (sigh), but it’s not too late to snare some safari-inspired fashion for your wardrobe.

Make like a Safari Queen and set your sights on pale linen and dark khaki, elevated with flashes of leopard and snakeskin and utility-chic bags.

These are the pieces to hunt down now...

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

Light and supremely breathable, linen is the obvious choice for journeys in blazing hot lands, but even if you’re not venturing further than the urban jungle, this fabric is a summer style winner.

Think loose tunics, unbuttoned shirts and easy-breezy shorts in creamy hues teamed with lace-up leather sandals – or trainers for a modern spin on the adventurer trend.

– M&S Collection Best of British Pure Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, £52; Pure

Linen A-Line Skirt With Belt, £36; Khaki Suede Lace Up Trainers, £39 (www. marksandspencer.com)

– Long Tall Sally Pure Linen Tunic, £38; Linen Mix Pull On Trousers, £35; Malta Lace Up Suede Sandals, £70 (www.longtallsally.com)

– M&Co White Linen Shorts, £10 (www.mandco.com)

DON’T FORGET YOUR KHAKIS

If a pale colour palette leaves you looking washed out, let khaki lead your safari style expedition – a simple shirtdress or skirt will anchor your look.

Treat the gloomy green like a neutral, pairing it with tonal shades such as tan and taupe, or offset with flashes of acid brights or rose gold jewellery.

– White Stuff Utility Shirt Dress, £55; Punch Out Ankle Boots, £39 (www. whitestuff.com)

– White Stuff Coffee Cord Skirt, £39.95 (www.whitestuff.com)

HOT SPOTS

Bring some big cat ferocity to your look, with the help of leopard print.

As a rule, if the spots are oversized, just a smattering works best – shoes, belts and bags are the ideal accompaniment for your linen and khaki pieces.

But if it’s a micro print, you can afford to go big. Try a pair of leopard track pants or a relaxed shirt tucked into jeans.

– Biba Body Luxe Casualwear Leopard Zip Trousers, £39 (in store October; www.houseoffraser.co.uk)

– New Look Stone Leopard Print Suedette Ankle Strap Block Heels, £19.99 (www.newlook.com)

– Next Leopard Print Pony Look Skinny Belt, £14 (www.next.co.uk)

SNAKE HIP

If leopard print roars, snakeskin slithers more quietly, lending a luxe edge to your ensemble – just so long as you steer clear of bright colours or overly shiny fabrics.

Instead, stick with greys and creams in matte finishes, like a neat grab bag or pair of mules. Remember, a little goes a long way. – RJR.John Rocha Grey Textured Snakeskin-effect Zip Bowler Bag, £49 (www.debenhams.com)

– SimplyBe Sole Diva Peep Toe Shoe Boots, £30 (www.simplybe.co.uk)

PRACTICAL MAGIC

It’s all about practicality on the safari trail, so to complete your look, a backpack is the obvious choice.

Tan or chocolate brown suit the colour scheme superbly – choose from a chicly simple unstructured pouch or a multi-pocketed pack, and discover the joy of going hands-free.

– Nica Romalie Chestnut Mini Backpack, £55 (www.nica.co.uk)

– Jigsaw Blake Leather Backpack, £179 (www.jigsaw-online.com)

From left: A model wears the M&S Collection Pure Linen Shirt, Pure Linen Skirt with Belt and Khaki Suede Lace Up Trainers; the Biba Body Luxe Casualwear Leopard Zip Trousers; Next Leopard Print Pony Look Skinny Belt; Jigsaw Blake Leather Backpack; New...