Safari Fashion Through the Decades: From Practicality to Chic

Safari fashion has evolved significantly over the decades, reflecting changing social norms, technological advancements in textiles, and the increasing influence of style and comfort.¹ Here’s a journey through safari fashion through the years:

Early 20th Century (The Pioneer Era):

Focus: Utmost practicality and durability.
Key Elements: Heavyweight cotton drill or canvas in khaki, beige, or olive green. High-necked, long-sleeved shirts buttoned to the wrists for sun and insect protection. Sturdy, high-laced leather boots for navigating rough terrain. Wide-brimmed felt hats or pith helmets for sun protection. Breeches or long, loose-fitting trousers. Leather belts with pouches for carrying essentials.² Think the classic “Great White Hunter” look.
Influence: Military attire and colonial practicality heavily influenced this style.³ Functionality was paramount over aesthetics.

Mid-20th Century (The Golden Age of Safari):

Focus: Maintaining practicality with a touch of adventure and burgeoning leisure travel.
Key Elements: Lighter-weight cotton fabrics became more common. Khaki remained dominant, but slightly more tailored silhouettes emerged. Bush jackets with multiple pockets for equipment (film, binoculars) gained popularity. Shorts became acceptable for daytime wear. Chukka boots or comfortable walking shoes replaced heavier boots. Women adopted tailored blouses and skirts or practical trousers in neutral tones. Scarves for neck protection and a touch of style.
Influence: Adventure literature and films romanticizing safaris began to shape the image.⁴ Comfort started to become a slightly higher priority.

Late 20th Century (The Rise of Eco-Consciousness and Comfort):

Focus: Blending practicality with comfort and a growing awareness of environmental concerns.
Key Elements: Lighter, more breathable synthetic blends and performance fabrics entered the scene. Khaki and neutral tones remained popular but with more varied shades. Zip-off trousers offered versatility. Comfortable, supportive walking shoes and sandals became essential. Wide-brimmed hats made from lighter materials. Layering became key for adapting to temperature changes. Less emphasis on overtly “colonial” styles.
Influence: Increased air travel made safaris more accessible. A greater understanding of the African climate and the need for sun and insect protection informed choices. Early eco-tourism trends began to subtly influence fabric choices and a move away from overtly “hunting” aesthetics.

21st Century (The Modern Safari Look):

Focus: Comfort, style, and sustainability are key.
Key Elements: Lightweight, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking fabrics in a range of neutral and earth tones (including muted greens, browns, and greys). Versatile clothing that can be layered. Comfortable and supportive walking shoes or trail runners. Stylish wide-brimmed hats or caps with neck protection. Sunglasses are a must. Reusable water bottles and eco-friendly toiletries reflect a growing environmental awareness. Increasingly, safari fashion incorporates subtle nods to local designs and craftsmanship through accessories or fabric choices.⁵
Influence: The rise of adventure travel, outdoor performance wear, and a greater focus on sustainability have shaped modern safari fashion.⁶ Comfort and practicality remain crucial, but with a more stylish and environmentally conscious edge. Social media and travel blogs also influence trends, showcasing a more relaxed and chic safari aesthetic.⁷

Key Trends Across the Decades:

Color Palette: Neutral earth tones have remained consistently popular due to their practicality in blending with the environment and minimizing insect attraction.⁸
Fabric: The shift has been towards lighter, more breathable, and performance-oriented materials.
Footwear: Comfort and durability have always been paramount, evolving from heavy boots to more versatile walking shoes and sandals.
Sun Protection: Wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves have been consistently important for protection against the strong African sun.⁹
Functionality: Pockets for carrying essentials have remained a practical element in safari wear.

Today’s safari fashion emphasizes looking good while being comfortable and respecting the environment and local culture.¹⁰ It’s a blend of practicality and personal style, reflecting a more informed and conscious approach to travel.