SUMMER may be almost over (sigh), but it's not too late to snare some safari-inspired fashion.
Make like an African 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, currently reduced to £36 from £89; Khaki Suede Lace Up Trainers, currently reduced to £39 from £99 (www.marksandspencer.com)
:: Long Tall Sally Pure Linen Tunic, currently reduced to £38 from £50; Linen Mix Pull On Trousers, currently reduced to £35 from £45; Malta Lace Up Suede Sandals, currently reduced to £70 from £90 (www.longtallsally.com)
:: M&Co White Linen Shorts, currently reduced to £10 from £16 (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 like tan and taupe, or offset with flashes of acid brights or rose gold jewellery.
:: White Stuff Utility Shirt Dress, £55; Punch Out Ankle Boots, currently reduced to £39 from £79.95 (www.whitestuff.com)
:: White Stuff Coffee Cord Skirt, £39.95 (www.whitestuff.com)
:: Heine Contrast Belt Skirt, £49 (LookAgain.co.uk)
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)
GET THE LOOK
To style his fabulous 20s-meet-70s AW16 show, Henry Holland chose a selection of lacy Ultimo lingerie, and now the catwalk-worthy new styles can be yours. Combining soft yet supportive fabric with floral lace, the Taylor Bralette, £24, is made for peaking from beneath a silky slip dress (available end of August; www.ultimo.co.uk).
BUY IT NOW
Alongside its autumn/winter offering, Fenn Wright Manson is launching its first ever Petite line, comprised of key pieces from the mainline collection tailored to women 5ft 3ins and under. Landing in September, the range includes tailoring, coats, shift dresses and occasionwear, taking you from now to party season in perfectly-proportioned style.
:: Fenn Wright Manson Petite Gemini Jacket, £169, and Trousers, £99 (www.fennwrightmanson.com).
FASHION FLASH
:: ARE YOU EVANS' NEXT TOP MODEL?
Think you've got what it takes to become the next Ashley Graham or Tess Holliday? Enter the inaugural Evans #IamMe Awards and you could end up modelling in the plus size brand's next campaign. Nominate yourself or someone else in one of four categories – #IamStyle, #IamActive, #IamInspiring, #IamBeauty – by September 10 at www.evans.co.uk/awards.
STYLE STEAL
The summer sales are winding down so you'll have to be quick if you want to bag this bargain – the Paul's Boutique Maisy Handheld Bag, available in six colourways from beige to electric blue, is now £34, reduced from £68 (www.paulsboutique.com).
