Google the term tribal designs and the top results refer to tattoos. These designs typically represent the symbol of a family or clan; they also may have spiritual meanings unique to their wearers. defined by traditions of common descent, language, and religion, tribal identities allow for important connections in the way we interact with others. When referring to fashion, tribal designs draw inspiration from varied cultures, incorporating the details and colors from the patterns associated with them.
Based on my limited research, I believe that the shapes and patterns in my skirt were influenced by Chinle prints. Chinle prints are characterized by wide bands of alternating shapes/patterns and stripes. These patterns are actually based on Navajo designs, which originate from the Native American people of New Mexico and Arizona. Hardly a literal interpretation of those patterns, it would be difficult to deny the inspiration evident in the large-scale bands of bands of alternating shapes/patterns and stripes.
The skirt also has a textural effect that appeals to my inner badass-boho-babe. The patterns are achieved by the layering of a dark solid fabric with cutouts on top of a brightly-hued one that appears to be a mix of floral and animal prints. On top of that are embroidered shapes in threads that pull from the colors in the under fabric. Sealing the deal is the row of bronze-toned mini coins around the hemline. A couple last pieces of information, the skirt is by Chico’s and was a thrift store find.
Keying in on that coin trim led to my choices for footwear and necklaces. These bronze wedges have been with me for a long time. I recall that I’d left my Palm Pilot in the restroom at a Macy’s the day I bought them (how’s that for dating when something happened). Back before smartphones, when cell phones and PDA’s were separate things. Fortunately, the cleaning staff found it and I got it back. Anyway, back to shoes. I used to wear them a lot but not as much in recent years. In fact, they’d been put into the Poshmark pile but I hadn’t gotten around to listing them yet. I may not do so after all.
I opted for two similar mixed-metal necklaces to get a chunkier look. These are the same necklaces I wore with my Wednesday OOTD in my Last Week, This Week: Hey Good Lookin’, April 19-25 post. And finishing off the look is a denim jacket.
Like so many motifs, vibrant and attitude-filled tribal patterns are a fun and modern way to make your wardrobe stand out and pop. Prints, texture, and unexpected details can be used in small or large doses to add excitement to an outfit. What motifs are you drawn to and how are you incorporating them into your style?
Be well and let’s connect! Subscribe, tweet, follow, friend, love, pin … all options are available and waiting for you. I look forward to hearing from you.
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6 Comments
I sure love your hair!! Any time I see you wear a skirt, it makes me want to wear a skirt, lol! Love this one.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Thanks for the hair love and I’m so happy to hear that I’ve inspired you to wear skirts more often.
Hi Rena, that print is really pretty. So many different colors to pull from when coordinating accessories. And your top has an interesting neckline. Please ask your talented photographer to consider close ups for some of your outfit shots so we can better see the fabric details. As for me, I’m currently crushing on Ikat prints; blues in particular. Glad you held on to those shoes; they’re definitely keepers.
Thank you for the feedback, Allie. Sometimes there is a bit of a communication challenge with my photographer and I wind up having to work with the images I’m provided. It’s an evolving process.
I just love a skirt with a cool print like this. In fact, what I noticed is I mostly have print skirts. I’m slowly trying to add in some solids, but these are my faves.
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
I’m partial to skirts with “flair” as well. And the more, the merrier.