How to Style a Tailored Safari Jacket | Men's Fashion Tips

The Timeless Appeal of the Safari Jacket

The safari jacket has become a wardrobe staple for many style-conscious men. With its military origins and rugged utilitarian look, this versatile jacket offers a touch of adventure and worldly allure. Though strongly associated with the African wilderness, today the safari jacket transitions seamlessly from outdoor expeditions to city streets around the globe.

In this article, we'll explore the enduring popularity of the tailored safari jacket and how to style this classic piece for contemporary urban settings.

The History of the Safari Jacket

The origins of the safari jacket can be traced back to mid-19th century British colonial pursuits in Africa. Military officers and hunters adopted practical khaki uniforms, designed for comfort and camouflage in the bush. These cool cotton jackets were light-weight and featured details like shoulder straps and patch pockets for easy access to supplies.

During the Golden Age of Safari in the early 20th century, elegant travelers on African adventures appropriated the look. The safari jacket became associated with exotic locales and intrepid expeditions. When photographed on figures like Ernest Hemingway or Theodore Roosevelt, the garment took on an aura of rugged masculinity.

After World War II, Hollywood films like The African Queen further popularized the dashing safari style. By the 1960s, the jacket had been adopted by counterculture movements like the Mods. Today it remains an influential fashion item for contemporary menswear designers.

Choosing the Right Safari Jacket

Modern safari jackets retain classic features like shoulder straps and patch pockets but come in a wide array of fabrics, colors, and cuts. When selecting a safari jacket, consider:

• Fabric - Traditionally made from hardy cotton drill or khaki twill, today's safari jackets incorporate lighter poplins, linens, and high-tech synthetic blends.
• Color - While tan and olive remain popular, safari jackets now come in camouflage, darker neutrals like navy or black, and even bright bold hues.
• Silhouette - Contemporary variations range from trim-fitting to oversized. Look for a tailored cut that flatters your frame.
• Details - Metal snaps, shoulder straps, belted waists, and patch pockets keep the safari jacket utilitarian chic.

How to Style a Tailored Safari Jacket

Due to its versatility, the safari jacket can take you from daytime outings to evening occasions. Here are some stylish ways to incorporate this menswear staple into your wardrobe:

Casual Daytime Look

For relaxed daytime activities, pair your safari jacket with jeans and a t-shirt. Opt for dark wash denim and neutral tees in khaki, olive, heather grey, or white that complement the jacket. Suede desert boots and a canvas field bag complete this casual ensemble with rugged flair.

Smart Office Attire

For the office, don a tailored safari jacket with dress trousers, a collared shirt, and suede loafers. Choose lighter tan, navy, or heathered jackets for business settings. A simple leather briefcase polishes off this professional look.

Dressed Up Evening Attire

Make an impact after dark by styling your safari jacket with black jeans, Chelsea boots, and a mock neck shirt. Finish with a textured blazer in charcoal or navy layered over the top. For cooler nights, try a shawl collar cardigan under your unstructured jacket.

Weekend Outdoor Wear

Pay homage to the safari jacket's rugged roots by pairing it with cargo pants, heavy boots, and a hoodie for weekend outdoor adventures. Look for oversized silhouettes and pockets galore to carry all your expedition essentials in this casual earthy ensemble.

Safari Jacket Inspiration from Runways to Instagram

Safari jackets dominated recent Spring/Summer 2023 menswear runways. At Louis Vuitton, models strode in slim khaki jackets with patches and plenty of pockets. Jil Sander showed oversized, unstructured takes in tan and olive. Meanwhile, Homme Plisse Issey Miyake took safari jackets into athleisure territory with bold prints and tech fabrics.

On Instagram, style icons demonstrate fresh ways to rock the iconic safari jacket:

• @johnjxryan dons a white linen safari jacket for sunny tropical vibes.
• @peele.em layers his jacket over an intricate camp collar for a sharp dapper effect.
• @travelsofkends styles his oversized safari shirt like an open jacket for an artsy statement look.

These fashion-forward gents prove the enduring appeal of the safari jacket across ages and occasions.

Key Takeaways for Styling Your Safari Jacket

Whether you're looking to add a vintage military edge or polish up your weekend errand wear, the safari jacket offers versatile styling potential. Keep these tips in mind:

• Select colors, fabrics and silhouettes suited for your lifestyle needs.
• Pair with t-shirts, denim, loafers, and boots for laidback casual looks.
• Choose tailored cuts, trousers, and leather shoes for a refined office-ready outfit.
• Have fun with layers like blazers, cardigans and hoodies for chic weekend style.
• Draw inspiration from diverse sources like runways, magazines and Instagram.

With its mix of form and function, the timeless tailored safari jacket promises to be a wardrobe MVP for seasons to come. Whether worn on urban streets or outback trails, this adaptable menswear staple delivers style, comfort and globetrotting flair.

FAQs

What is the history of the safari jacket?

The safari jacket originated in the 1800s as a practical uniform for British military officers and hunters in Africa. It later became popularized as a fashion item in the early 20th century during the Golden Age of Safari, and through Hollywood films in the 1950s-60s.

What features should you look for in a safari jacket?

Classic safari jacket features include shoulder straps, patch pockets, lightweight fabric like cotton drill or linen, and a neutral tan or khaki color. Contemporary versions come in more colors, fabrics, and silhouettes.

How can you style a safari jacket for the office?

For the office, pair a tailored, lightweight safari jacket with dress trousers, a collared shirt, and suede loafers. Stick to neutral colors like tan, navy or heather grey.

What are good shoes to wear with a safari jacket?

Consider suede desert boots, canvas sneakers, or leather loafers for casual looks. Chelsea boots or monk strap shoes work for dressier occasions. For the weekend, rugged hiking boots complement an oversized safari jacket.

Who are some style icons that wear the safari jacket well?

Contemporary style icons on Instagram that incorporate safari jackets include @johnjxryan, @peele.em and @travelsofkends. They demonstrate how to style safari jackets in fresh, fashion-forward ways.