A gentleman’s guide to South American style
From Inca-inspired patterns to relaxed, casual accessories, South American style is enjoying its time in the sun
Words: Kim Silverman
South America, for many of us, conjures up awe-inspiring panoramas of natural and architectural wonder, from the elusive Inca citadel Machu Picchu in the Andes mountains to the lush Amazonian rainforest. But, despite fashion not being one of the foremost exports of this continent, its rich and artistic history has too afforded South America’s sartorial significance.
The truth is, style from South America is as diverse as its nature and people. From football to high-fashion, the influences are there. But it would appear that, until now, the rest of the world has taken this mysterious continent’s fashion input for granted. No more – for South American style has just been pushed into the limelight.
Missoni SS17
SS17 collections are criss-crossed with the Inca influences of South America, with Missoni’s iconic zig-zag prints revamped this season in pastel tones and Inca patterns. A near kaleidoscopic array of garments encapsulate almost every cultural reference from every corner of the continent.
Similarly, Etro, the famed Italian fashion house, introduced beguiling prints on flowing, relaxed clothing – a design nod towards the heritage of South America’s indigenous cultures.
Etro SS17
Earthy tones of mustards, terracotta and moss green have been perfectly offset with solid-toned pieces of navy, midnight blue and olive. The result, masculine – yet relaxed – collections that innovate, but also celebrate this oft-overlooked continent of style.
So, with South American style having its moment in the sun – and the destinations themselves hotting up for the 2017 summer season – how can you replicate this singular sartorial style, and get the casual, relaxed look?
Trousers fully-patterned with these prints may be a little hard on the eyes. But, on shorts, the influence of Inca patterning just works – keeping things cool, alternative – and undeniably South American.
If you prefer to stay understated, we understand. But that doesn’t mean you should eschew patterns altogether. Instead, why not pull on Etro’s indigenous print-inspired cashmere scarf – a lightweight winner that will help finesse the South American theme.
An essential for not only keeping out of the sun, but for quintessential Latin American style, too. The woven panama hat is the one design that will never go out of fashion – and promises to give you that real ‘Our Man in Havana’ vibe.
When sporting your polo in South America, get the vibe right by choosing bold colours that compliment the exotic culture, yet still maintaining your refined sense of style.
In a continent where the Day of the Dead is commonly celebrated, skulls are not to be shied away from. The iconic skull or ‘calavera‘ is an icon of traditional Mexican culture and art, so slipping on Alexander McQueen’s iconic skull cuff is a nifty way to get into the Latin American vibe.
The must-have summer shoes, espadrilles are the ultimate pair of holiday shoes – comfortable enough for traversing around South America’s beaches or urban landscapes, but still looking able to look great with smart casual suiting.
You’ll have a hard time trying to find a pair that’ll cut it like Polo Ralph Lauren’s quintessential linen shorts in beige. Pair them with almost anything, and you’ll stay cool amongst the tropics of South America.
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