Thank you for watching! Again I want to note due to recent developments along the very Nile itself, discussing something so superficial as style feels actually rather ill timed. I again want to take this space to suggest any of those in a place to do so, to please consider donating to organizations like Unicef or Save The Children to help with their ongoing and emergency work in Sudan. Stay aware of the goings on in our wide world, please practice empathy, and stay safe out there.
Its actually well timed and you are using your attraction, your voice to spread the word, the news and educate us that are working so much and living pay check to paycheck!
For anyone interested, "Convoy Of Hope" is a GREAT worldwide emergency relief charity with one of the lowest overhead percentages of anything! If you want as much relief as possible to go to healthcare, food, clothing, and children's education, check them out! They are mind-blowing. They have bases all over the world and often arrive at disaster zones even before any of the local government aid!
As an archaeologist who primarily focuses on repatriation of native american materials, I really appreciate you approaching the colonial aspects of this style. I try my hardest to be as thoughtful as I can as a member of a colonial power working with colonized groups. I am often conflicted about wearing adventure-ready style (especially at the museum where I work) because there are serious connotations with the Indiana Jones look. On the other hand, I'm also drawing inspiration from the co-founder of my museum who was the first female archaeologist in Tennessee who did most of her work in the 1930's and 1940's and was a style icon, in my opinion. It is a delicate balance, and I generally don't wear jodhpurs during consultations. I think Dandy Wellington says it best, "Vintage Style, Not Vintage Values."
Thank you for adding the historical context part of this video! I stumbled across an article about liking problematic things (was doing a James Bond movie marathon and wrestling with gah, these are partially so fun and partially so issue-laden, haha). My main take away was it's ok to like something problematic as long as you acknowledge it is problematic, don't defend its problems, and recognize others might not be able to enjoy it the way you do based on the issues it has. Also you should have done this video on your set! Gotta get more screen time for those boxes, haha! :-)
I really love the cultural context you added at the end. That was really dope that you acknowledged the past of safari wear and its ties to colonialism.
Thank you for talking about the historical implications of this fashion style, when so many other youtubers want to gloss over the dark history entirely. I think you discussed it respectfully
I love so much that you talked about the sad and dark history of adventure style!! One of the things that bothers me when I wear vintage-ish clothing is people thinking I'm conservative or that I agree with the stuff they did back then. If you look to vintage fashion *only* with the eyes of "wow it's so pretty!" I guess you're missing some points, idk. To me, vintage IS pretty and fun but is also a really powerfull way of storytelling. Guess people should just have some sense when wearing vintage clothes, especially in foreign countries or cultures they don't know much history about. And also, people should suspect that it's not because someone is wearing 40s/50s clothing that they're misogynistic, for example. It's a really important discussion and I don't really see it being talked as much as it should be! Don't know how to end this comment but just thought I should say something about the video, since I liked it so much haha great job!!
Thank you! I suppose vintage style in this sense helps us all remember to try not to judge a person's values or interior self based on their outside expression. While how someone dresses can be a clue to their personality, really it can't tell you much!
i really appreciate the thought you put into this. i like to think that when i wear any vintage look, i'm mainly doing it out of the fun of achieving a certain aesthetic, but it's also sort of a racial or gender reclamation (i guess this would depend on the circumstances or person). i often frame 'adventure style' or 'film noir detective' looks, etc. as sort of cultural archetypes in my head when i'm considering them or planning an outfit. the historical implications shouldn't be ignored, and they've never really escaped me so i'm grateful that you acknowledged them here. it can sometimes be difficult to gauge what is (negatively) culturally-appropriative or problematically-based, and to a certain degree you do have to accept and acknowledge and see what you're comfortable with--unless we're talking literal racist artifacts (!!). it's a really interesting discussion to be had.
Thank you for adding to the conversation! I always find with vintage styles it is better to talk through and discuss these things, as opposed to glossing over and ignoring them. The world has come a long way, has such a long way to go, but we can't get anywhere without talking about it all!
When I was a teen, 'Out of Africa' influenced so much of fashion with an adventurer/archaeologist vibe. I loved Brendan Fraser's outfits in 'The Mummy', and that has been a massive inspiration for me too. In 1998, there was a British TV series called 'Heat of the Sun' starring Trevor Eve and Susannah Harker, about an English detective working in Africa in the 1930s - Susannah Harker played an adventurous woman who could shoot, fight and fly a plane, and her clothes were wonderful!
Thank you for talking about the history of this style. I have always had a hard time wearing faux ivory jewelry because of what it replicates. I think it is important to talk about these things and I really appreciate you bringing up this point.
From my viewpoint, adventure style stays so relevant because the style was adapted for very specific needs. These are styles worn all over the regions of the world because they are hardy, useful, and necessary, at times. Knowing the history behind any place you visit or dream of is always a wonderful thing, but only if we are open to all the history, not just a specific viewpoint. Keep the adventure going!
Thank you for this enlightenment. That you pair your fashion with the era of experience in which the clothes and travel were about adventures in far off and dangerous places has made this posting engaging in many ways. You are complex, creative and conversive and I'm always interested in your content. Thanks
I’m seriously into the social history of fashion and style. What was going on at the time people wore these things we covet. So for another vintage gal to bring it up was awesome! Thank you xx
I have really enjoyed all three vids in the 'Adventure Style'; the outfits, the making of the boxes, and your wonderfully detailed analysis on all aspects of said style. Keep up the good work and I sincerely hope that you gain the benefits you deserve from the time and money invested in entertaining (and educating) us. 👍
Hi Bianca! Love the informative nature of this video. Great content. And thanks for the gentle nudge about being aware of what's going on in the world around us as we struggle in our day to day lives. Empathy keeps us all from being too self centered. P.S. Love the makeup look. You're beautiful as always.
I appreciate you mentioning the origin of the Adventure style. It's important to acknowledge that and for the audience to understand how the associations with that style have changed. Also. Love the yellow shadow!
A modern-ish film (I say "ish" because, unbelievably, it is now 14 years old) with some great period adventure costuming is Peter Jackson's King Kong. Ann Darrow has a couple of gorgeous evening gowns, of course, but she as well as her male companions have very nice travel wear as well
Great video! I find the safari style fascinating, and this was a great overview of the style. I don’t think it’s necessary to apologize for the style. People still use and wear things that can easily be traced back to some atrocity in history. Hitler created Volkswagen, but people still drive them today. If you look hard enough, everything we now enjoy has a dark past. Safari/colonial style indeed has a dark history, just like anything else. But it’s stylish and timeless, and there’s no to feel guilt because of it.
I really appreciated the take on certain styles and its association with a problematic past. As a poc in a previously colonized, third- world country that has an interest in vintage fashion, I've had to go back and forth with myself on the more political/social aspects of it, especially because, when first exploring the community I did make the assumption that most people that are into vintage fashion probably have more "conservative/ traditional" views, fortunately that's not the case. I really hope the community have more respectful and honest discussions about this . Also, subscribed :)
Thank you for offering your perspective! Luckily many within the vintage community often repeat the phrase "vintage fashion, not vintage vales" While I'm sure there are some in the community who are a bit backwards thinking too, mostly I have seen caring and sensitive people who are aware of history's many sins.
Just wanted to say how much I love and appreciate your videos! You're so thoughtful and creative with a really intelligent, as well as beautiful, sense of style ( And I love hearing you speak - you have such lovely diction!)
I really enjoyed this video. It was great to hear and see your tips and tricks on dressing in Adventure Style. I also appreciated you discussing the historical implications of this style and other popular vintage styles as well. Keep up the amazing work!
My personal opinion on wearing clothing styles that come from darker pasts is that as long as you acknowledge its past, you should be able to wear it. This is obviously in context to the specific style and where you are wearing it too. There are many historic garments that i find striking and beautiful but would never wear based on their historical significance. Certain military uniforms for example. I do think there is a big difference between wearing a full colonial uniform and safari/adventurer inspired style though. I know in the vintage community there is a lot of discussion about cultural issues with vintage garments. Things such as Native American inspired designs, Traditional Asian dresses (ceremonial or otherwise), and printed fabrics showing other cultures are being widely debated as to whether they are okay to wear. It is of course true that many of these cultures were treated very badly and their traditional designs and cultures then sold off as souvenirs to tourists. However, what if you want to wear a garment because you admire its beauty and the culture it represents? And if its decided its too offensive to wear it then where does it go? To a museum? Back to the descendants from that cultural group? In a box to simply be lost to time??? Who decides? I recently came across a vintage seller who was very conflicted about selling a Native American printed dress from the 1930s. She mentioned that she would feel very uncomfortable selling it to anyone who was white! I found that to be such an extreme opinion and thought that if she felt so strongly about this piece, she shouldn't have offered it up for sale at all. It's a lot like the discussion about wearing real vintage fur. Should we honor the animal and its life and wear it? If its vintage it did die a long time ago so your not supporting the current fur trade. Or is wearing it just making it fashionable and in turn likely to increase fur production in the fashion industry? And if you shouldn't wear it, where does it go? Either lost in a box or landfill i suppose. I have heard you can donate fur coats to animal rescue charities which very positive, but maybe not what you would choose for your great grandmothers fur still in pristine condition? Overall who really decides any of these things i guess. I choose to be respectful and admire other cultures with my style choices. That way its always coming from a good place at heart.
Thank you Shannon! I think it really can come down to an item by item basis, especially when it comes to prints. I have a hand painted Mexican souvenir skirt for example with animals on it, but I don't think I could ever wear one with say people wearing sombreros depicted on it, especially in light of the recent US and Mexico relations. Celebrating an item of cultural dress and wanting to wear it because you find it beautiful is super understandable, I love kimono myself for example, but another component of cultural appropriation is the fact that people (in the US I mean in this case) may have been ostracized or made fun of for wearing their own traditional clothing but now when a white person wears it it's no longer bad it's suddenly cool and "fashion". Its definitely a delicate balance, and one I always try and err on the side of offending as few as possible!
This is really similar to my opinion. I think the saddest part is the idea that people who do really love the culture where the fashion is from can be scolded for wearing that fashion. Designers in many countries LOVE putting people from different nations in their creations (I have several American friends who have lived in Africa most of their lives and they very rarely encountered anyone who didn't like it if they were wearing local fashion. Most of the time it was seen as a compliment! So in some sense, is it the factions of western culture bickering and scolding each other while most of the rest of the world (those currently in the groups that are distant "roots" to many Americans) just see it as white people taking part in their culture in a positive way? Hard to say, but I know my friends were met with more resistance here in the U.S. than they ever did in Africa... Quick Edit: I will say, Safari fashion is more contentious than actual current/historical local garb, since it represents a conquering or animal abusing group.
I think it is very different to wear traditional clothing in the actual place it is from, while say, staying with a host family or celebrating with local people, or even at an almost museum style experience (like the places where you can try on historic kimono in Japan), than wearing something here in the US. Many people seem to enjoy having tourists/outsiders try on and wear their traditional clothes, and this is like the most pure and lovely form of cultural exchange really because usually everyone is learning and sharing with one another, but it is different here in the US because here people have either been made fun of for wearing their own traditional dress, or were made to adopt western dress entirely and assimilate. The different racial tensions and history are what complicate this issue further within the US, and I personally find that very understandable.
To offer some perspective as an Asian (living in my home country atm, but also lived in the States) I can't help but to disagree with wearing traditional Asian clothing as long as its past is recognized. I understand that there might be no malicious intent... however, traditional clothing in my country is used for ceremonies where we honor our ancestors, special holidays with cultural significance, and marriage. The traditional clothing is special, worn during specific contexts in my country. Next, there is a past and continued fetishization of Asian women, the "othering" of Asians in America, not to mention the history of racism (policy and otherwise) in America. These reasons combined, It is difficult for me to justify the use of traditional clothing just for someone's fashion and style. That being said, there are contexts where I appreciate seeing the traditional dress being worn. For example, our country has palace cultural visits where visitors can rent out traditional clothes. Other examples include culturally significant events such as festivals, dances, weddings, museum events, etc. In these cases, wearing the traditional garb can be seen as a sign of respect, cultural exchange, and very much appreciated! Hopefully this provided another perspective of an ongoing debate with many opinions.
Thank you for your informative Vintage Style video, your video was very inspiring from fabrics to different colour combinations when creating the adventure style outfits. Your profound understanding about the history of fashion and how it evolved with the times was fantastic. Truly entertaining video.
I love the way you styled these looks! I actually have gone back and forth myself with loving vintage items and style but understanding there is a dark history to a lot of it. I have such an appreciation and interest in history and the style and fashions of the past however I do not have the mindset of the past. It’s something I’ve really struggled with however I think it’s important to acknowledge the good and the bad of our history and I think you have done a great job of explaining this! ✨
At my 1st job in the late 80s, we were expected to wear business attire. One of the directors always wore one of his selection of identical 1960s -70s polyester safari suits, with (for example) a bright apricot shirt & multi-coloured patterned tie. The safari suits had a big patch pocket on either side of the chest, another at each hip & around his middle, a belt made out of the same matching fabric with an identical buckle. The jacket sleeves were short & the pant legs long & his suits in colours like brown, powder-blue & beige - worn with cream coloured vinyl zip-up loafers. He thought he was a real catch. It was hard trying to keep a straight face - & still is, even now lol
I had a feeling you were going to wrap up this video with your thoughts on the dark past of what we now call adventure style. Thank you for doing so and for bringing an extra thoughtful dimension to another interesting instalment!
Thanks so much for the dialogue at the end of the video. Enjoyed it very much. Good thoughts. As a teacher I often discuss this type of things with my students and so am always glad to hear it from a "real world' setting!
I recently discovered your channel and enjoy your look books, I love classic styles and wearing dresses. My friends sometimes tease me, but I feel happy when I 👗 up.
I've always really liked vintage 'adventure' style but didn't know it was a thing until now! lol I've always love indiana jones, when I was little I used to dress up as him lol
I’ve always semi-liked the look of ‘Safari’ style from a distance, but will never wear it because the image of colonialism always comes to the forefront of my mind-particularly King Leopold in the Congo. I’ve always stuck more to an Army/Military style-esque, with it having the same color palette. Thank you Bianca for the realism on the history behind the style! Regardless of my thoughts, I think you look amazing in this style! It looks like second skin!
Great video packed full of helpful 'adventure style' tips! I like that you added on some historical facts behind the safari/adventure style look doll. Thank goodness going on 'a safari' in this day & age doesn't mean adding another tiger pelt for display on your lounge floor!! Xx
Thank you for not shying away from the icky parts about fashion history 💜 I live in a country that had been colonised by one power or another since the phonecian era (pre ancient Rome) up until the 1960s. Our country has been plundered and many beautiful artefacts destroyed or defaced by successive conquerors, dressing up as the people who would've come here in the past to oogle at my ancestors feels a little strange BUT I still love certain aspects of both safari style and colonial fashion in general. (I should add that we certainly had it a lot easier than other colonies and didn't suffer from the mass genocides that other places experienced)
Thank you for offering your perspective Sarah! I think knowing the history of the style really helps me to try and create more inspired and adventure "vibe" outfits without an ensemble turning into a direct costume, or like an exact cosplay of the worst history had to offer. Though here on the channel I have veered a bit more directly adventurer, I still wouldn't don a pith helmet again (I had one for a few safari posts on my blog in the past before I was mores sensitive to this issue).
@@TheClosetHistorian once again, thank you so very much for confronting the less desirable parts! On a side note, I caught a glimpse of a TV show called The Last Post yesterday on the BBC, it appears to have some great 1960s everyday British fashion in a desert military base. Don't know much about it beyond that but it could potentially serve as some great style inspiration
Running videos in the background and perked my ears up when you were talking about the implications of safari style and the dark histories-- I think in another 50 years we'll be looking at fast fashion with the same sort of horror that we currently look at trophy hunters with (sweat shops, pollution, the waste dump of clothing in Africa that killed the local fiber markets there....). There is so much that is so very problematic with any fashion, any era of fashion you care to name, and unless you're a nudist, you're gonna be dealing with it on some level. I live in New England. If it ain't freezing, it's blackfly season, so nudism is OUT. I've come to some of the same conclusions you have here, where one should be aware of what it is one's wearing. But in the context of today's manufacturing of fast fashion, my personal stance is that wearing vintage and/or upcycling fabric/clothing etc. does give one at least one a slightly better soapbox to stand on.
Safari style movie suggestion: Baz Luhrmann's Australia I appreciate your note about cultural sensitivity ending the video as so often vintage apparel (especially reproduction companies) ignore the societal implications/concerns of the clothing and the images they recall.
I was entranced by the 80s series 'The Flame Trees of Thika'. set amongst the expats in pre-WWI Kenya. Loved both the delicate white Edwardian dresses and the jodphur,white shirt and long boots looks. Eps avaiable on UA-cam.
I like that you acknowledge how problematic the clothes can be. I'm Kenyan and we only got independence from the British in 1963 so it's still a relatively recent development. I personally would not wear any safari themed clothes but I think it's ok to do so as long as you know the history behind it. Not like Melania Trump who wore a very offensive outfit complete with jodhpurs and a pith helmet on her recent trip to Nairobi
Yeah the insensitivity of the current US presidential office and all their associates seriously knows no bounds! One would think they at least have aides to help them not be entirely SO offensive, but clearly that must not be the case.
I absolutely loved your adventure style video. I know that in your side hustles vid you mention how tough it was to make it, but is there any chance you would do another similar video for a different style? Anyway, love everything you make!
My daughter was studying the life of Anne frank and had to dress as her and do a biography. I messaged the Jewish museum in Sydney to get their advice on wearing a replica star and they sent a wonderful email back saying for educational purposes it was OK, so good to get advice if never sure about these sensitive issues.
so I love love your ancient Egyptian look. I just got an Egyptian print skirt TODAY! ITs not vintage, but its like the pyramid wall art and ritual. so I ordered an Ankh and a Eye necklace that I hope you like. The timing is really synchronicity that this was the suggested video of the day.
Thank you for addressing the issues with Safari style and Western museums. Even while studying art history, the truth of how many of the artists I studied got their inspiration (think Gauguin) or why Egyptian art is included in Western art history survey classes was not talked about or owned up to enough.
B -- help a sister out! I'm in need of some inspiration on how to style 1940's style trousers, as well as those fab 50's circle skirts. Any thoughts on where to look for dedicated videos on styling either piece? I love your lookbooks! Pinterest is great but for some reason so many trouser shots are from mid-hip up (SO unhelpful!)
Historical Emporium makes late 19th century reproduction Safari Bush Jacket and Pants and the Riding Boots are available in black and brown leather the boots go for less than $200. As for the pants you'll have to get the suspenders due to the fact that the pants doesn't have any belt loops the pants are a late 19th century design. The Belt loops didn't even become available until somewhere either in the 1920's or 1930's. As for head wear I would wear the Territory Hat or the Slouch Hat both made by Akubra available from David Morgan Hat.
Delightful video (as always). Also I think many of us have a very similar Pinterest board (all with that Nicole Kidman fashion spread on it). Mine is called "Adventure Librarian" and thanks for helping me add to it
Some safari style outfits are in Agatha Christie’s death on the Nile and the campy Charlie Chan in Egypt. Along with the question of cultural sensitivity, Charlie Chan was not oriental a term no longer politically correct. History should be shown and perhaps not glorified but it must not be lost. It shows we are more aware at this point in time and hopefully more respectful. If you fear a backlash you could turn your travel adventures into an early woman photo journalist. I’ve also been thinking you could use the crates you make to be on ships as you dress to travel the world.
Also, I’m really glad you mentioned the history of safari/adventurer/explorer style because I feel like a lot of people don’t know. There’s a whole controversy about wearing pith helmets in the Steampunk community as well, which definitely ties in to your overall theme here. Those cultural implications are definitely there no matter what you wear. I just think it’s important to know what those are. Thanks again!
You made me love adventure style :) I've pinned a tone of pictures from your inspiration board! Side note: Grace Kelly and Ava Gardner are the most beautiful women ever, aren't they?
Should we wear Hugo Boss? Should we wear Chanel? Drive a BMW? I don't know. Maybe not. But what should we wear then? Everything that exists has its a dark side. I don't know.... something to think about. And write about.
I’m of Russian/ Eastern European descent, and in Russia a large chunk of the population identify as Christian orthodox, which is pretty much fundamentalist Christianity. In some churches, women aren’t allowed to enter if their hair isn’t covered or if they are wearing trousers (of course this isn’t the case in touristy areas, although you will see women with headscarves there too). Also in countries with oppressive regimes in the past in general, I feel like vintage style or elements of it can be associated with the past, restriction, poverty, war, etc. So there is a bit of a stigma with wearing longer skirts or more classic style in general. I am lucky that I grew up in Europe, but When I visit Russia, some people will ask me if I am going to church , though I am very atheist. I think it’s important to separate style from the era it was in, though there is a line when it comes to things like symbols . I very much like military inspired 1940s style but I would definitely not wear an SS uniform! Russia has a very painful history in general and I think that’s why many people might not get vintage, but it’s definitely changing, there’s a designer called Ulyana Sergeenko for example who is bringing vintage style to Russian couture.
Kind of along the same idea, I recently had a conversation about wearing a dress inspired by a traditional southern "belle" i.e. plantation owner's wife. I also felt that despite how pretty and how many parallels there were in other areas of the fashion world, there were particular aspects of the style in question that couldn't really be separated and made me inclined to think they shouldn't be worn. . .but I am not sure if I am being extreme. I wonder what others opinion would be.
Adorei o vídeo e ótimo você comentar sobre a relação com a exploração das Américas e Africa, porque sim, tem relação com uma época negativa da história e muitas vezes essa pode ser a interpretação de quem vê. Beijos, amo seu canal!
I love what you said, especially about the outfit having a time and space. Even if someone was to wear that style in Africa and people were nice about it and they didn’t feel like they were insensitive to the people, it still feels like that person is celebrating what the people who wore that outfit in the past did, or at least not condemning it. People in Egypt and all over africa (I assume) and the Arab world are extremely nice to tourists, especially western white tourists, it doesn’t mean that they’re okay with whatever they’re wearing. Sometimes the tourists don’t understand the powers that their passports have lol. colonialism is not over, it just has a different shape and more political implications
I totally agree that while people may not say anything or seem visibly offended, that doesn't mean one hasn't possibly done damage! Better to be overly sensitive as a visitor to someone else's home than to be hurtful, even if only on accident
I think.history must not be dependet on power nighther sience ,we can wach tv and be angrey as we feel .or to recognise falts and sin.but history and sinece must not spring an obtain out of power sourses. If we avoid that we can take knowledg with no more pationce unneeded. Thank you for your buetifull work.wish you good luck.sorry for bad spelling🌹💝🥀
On the one hand, clothes are clothes. If you like the look of certain clothes, wear them. On the other hand "Fashion is not an island. It's a response!" (As The Ultimate Fashion History would say). I'm inclined to say that wearing an Indiana Jones style kit is worlds away from wearing a Nazi costume, for instance, but others may say that someone who descends from and benefits from the foul deeds of colonizers can't understand how foul they truly were. Like, I don't know if wearing "campaign" style is as bad as a Nazi costume to someone from India, or parts of Africa, bc I'm not someone from India or Africa. However, I'm inclined to believe that we've later assigned different cultural associations to this style, despite how young the darker connotations are. As you mentioned, when I think Safari style, I think Zoo. I think preservation. I think the Cairo Museum. When you say adventure style, I think The Mummy and Amelia Earhart. The fact that we call it "Adventure Style" is indicative of a new almagamated fashion style blending multiple vintage fashions associated with adventures in the unknown: exploration, nature, and the pursuit of knowledge. In some cases, even a love for and attempt at understanding different cultures. I don't think that Adventure style is the same as "Campaign" or "Colonial" style, although it draws partially on those sources. I'm as comfortable wearing a pith as I am wearing a beret. They're both military headwear that worked its way into mainstream fashion (well, one of those did...). Although I'd never wear either out of personal preference 😂. I really appreciate the thought provoking discussion of the implications of this style though. Something we can think about no matter what we're wearing. Like, when you're wearing fast fashion, what are you implying? When you wear "gypsy" 70's style where does that come from? Sometimes our moral reasoning is sound, but it's always good to explore the origins of our fashion. After all, why else would we love vintage style if not for the history? 😊
I follow someone on insta that went on a trip to Egypt. Everyone on the trip was dressed vintage... Late 1800s to about 1920s. It really smacked me as insensitive. I understand the love of the afternoon but you have to remember colonialism and orientalism and all the problems involved. I appreciate that you speak on this.
This is my style but I have always worried about evoking colonialism instead of 'ooh functional and pretty!'. I've always loved really functional canvas or twill pieces paired with the loose diaphanous, colorful shirts and accessories.
Talking about the cultural history & context of styles is so important, thank you for that important addition. It’s part of why I feel a little uncomfortable with that style of fashion editorial, they can sometimes edge towards trivialising or glorifying that era of history.
So many editorials go several steps too far! It's easy to turn the setting, and even the local people, of an area into just "props" for the benefit of "wow so fashion" and it can be very yikes!
This is a great thoughtful video. My thinking is that we should try and see beyond the social constraints and oppressive culture that are associated with 50's and 40's fashion and look instead more at the way we go against the fast fashion trends which are polluting the world we live in. Also it is worth remembering that wearing secondhand clothes is not a new invention. People have been doing it for centuries and there was always a hand me down trade where people could buy clothes which had been sold on by wealthy owners. One good example is shown on the bbc tv documentary a stitch in time ; which is the episode about the hedge cutter : ua-cam.com/video/wtFoYua2dQw/v-deo.html. It is the history of a secondhand garment which was at one point super expensive and passed down. There is no point in feeling bad or guilty about wearing vintage.
I appreciate what you said about wearing 1900 safari style in Africa... that would probably be horrible! But as for cultural appropriation, I think it is fine as long as it is done with actual interest in the culture. "Imitation is the best form of flattery" is still true. I think the label sounds worse than what it is. cultures have always exchanged art, which includes fashion, for years. No American is insulted by kids in other countries drinking coca cola, and I think it's actually worse to assume that "cultural appropriation" should only go one way, ie white western world to other cultures. It creates a divide that does not need to be there. I think it would actually create more unity if white people like myself weren't chided for being passionate enough about other cultures to wear the fashions. The idea that a white woman can't wear a sari (while respecting the culture by not wearing the mark on her head unless she is Hindu) or an African head scarf simply out of love for the style and excitement about the culture is so terribly sad to me. And I hope no one would chide an African, Asian, or middle eastern girl for wanting to dress in a Mexican or French style... Maybe I'm rambling but hopefully I'm making sense!
I suppose I just figure that as a white woman, it is never my place to decide what is and is not offensive in relation to cultural appropriation. It is a very hot button topic I realize. Were things always equal, a true exchange, I would agree that there is no inherent problem with loving traditional clothing from another culture enough to want to wear it too, but there is a history that cannot be ignored. The reason I myself would not wear a full kimono, a sari, a traditional ensemble from an African culture (unless perhaps asked by someone from that culture for a teaching sort of reason or for an event such as a very traditional wedding) is because the history of my own culture, white american culture, is to oppress or ridicule the people these items truly belong to. For me it goes back to the fact that many people have been teased, denied jobs even, told they were less than for wearing their own traditional dress, whereas as soon as I do it is suddenly just fashion and totally cool. I personally believe cultural appropriation (the current negative understanding of it) does indeed only go one way, because the history of power and discrimination only goes one way. This is suuuch a tense topic, and I totally get appreciating the traditional dress from other cultures, I adore kimono for example, but it can be such a delicate balance to wear something respectfully, that most often I err on the side of not wearing things from other cultures at all in order to not offend. These are just my personal takes on the issue of course, and again as I have said I do not consider myself eligible to be a definitive voice on this topic. I personally really do tend to err on the side of caution because I wouldn't want to cause anyone any pain when it is so easy to simply wear something else. I truly believe some things are just not for me to personally enjoy wearing, and choose to appreciate them on others and within their own cultural context instead. I think if I were to overstep that I would deserve to be chided, informed where I have gone wrong, informed of context I may have been ignorant of before my transgression. I think my view is probably pretty extreme, but many of my views on many things tend to be so. Emileigh of the blog Flashback Summer does a lot of great posts covering related topics and will interview various other vintage fashion bloggers to discuss cultural appropriation, so her blog is really worth a read for more honest and careful discussions of these issues. www.flashbacksummer.com/2016/09/intercultural-vintage-questions-on-qipao.html
Thank you for watching! Again I want to note due to recent developments along the very Nile itself, discussing something so superficial as style feels actually rather ill timed. I again want to take this space to suggest any of those in a place to do so, to please consider donating to organizations like Unicef or Save The Children to help with their ongoing and emergency work in Sudan. Stay aware of the goings on in our wide world, please practice empathy, and stay safe out there.
Its actually well timed and you are using your attraction, your voice to spread the word, the news and educate us that are working so much and living pay check to paycheck!
Thank you for this.
For anyone interested, "Convoy Of Hope" is a GREAT worldwide emergency relief charity with one of the lowest overhead percentages of anything! If you want as much relief as possible to go to healthcare, food, clothing, and children's education, check them out! They are mind-blowing. They have bases all over the world and often arrive at disaster zones even before any of the local government aid!
+
As an archaeologist who primarily focuses on repatriation of native american materials, I really appreciate you approaching the colonial aspects of this style. I try my hardest to be as thoughtful as I can as a member of a colonial power working with colonized groups. I am often conflicted about wearing adventure-ready style (especially at the museum where I work) because there are serious connotations with the Indiana Jones look. On the other hand, I'm also drawing inspiration from the co-founder of my museum who was the first female archaeologist in Tennessee who did most of her work in the 1930's and 1940's and was a style icon, in my opinion. It is a delicate balance, and I generally don't wear jodhpurs during consultations.
I think Dandy Wellington says it best, "Vintage Style, Not Vintage Values."
This woman sounds badass! So cool that you are an archaeologist as well, such a fascinating area of study )
Thank you for adding the historical context part of this video! I stumbled across an article about liking problematic things (was doing a James Bond movie marathon and wrestling with gah, these are partially so fun and partially so issue-laden, haha). My main take away was it's ok to like something problematic as long as you acknowledge it is problematic, don't defend its problems, and recognize others might not be able to enjoy it the way you do based on the issues it has. Also you should have done this video on your set! Gotta get more screen time for those boxes, haha! :-)
Thank you Cait! I also quite like Bond films even though they are most often super problematic!
I really love the cultural context you added at the end. That was really dope that you acknowledged the past of safari wear and its ties to colonialism.
+
+
I just couldn't make several adventure style videos without mentioning it's past. History is important, even when just dealing with clothes!
Thank you for talking about the historical implications of this fashion style, when so many other youtubers want to gloss over the dark history entirely. I think you discussed it respectfully
Thank you Emily!
I love so much that you talked about the sad and dark history of adventure style!! One of the things that bothers me when I wear vintage-ish clothing is people thinking I'm conservative or that I agree with the stuff they did back then. If you look to vintage fashion *only* with the eyes of "wow it's so pretty!" I guess you're missing some points, idk. To me, vintage IS pretty and fun but is also a really powerfull way of storytelling. Guess people should just have some sense when wearing vintage clothes, especially in foreign countries or cultures they don't know much history about. And also, people should suspect that it's not because someone is wearing 40s/50s clothing that they're misogynistic, for example. It's a really important discussion and I don't really see it being talked as much as it should be! Don't know how to end this comment but just thought I should say something about the video, since I liked it so much haha great job!!
Thank you! I suppose vintage style in this sense helps us all remember to try not to judge a person's values or interior self based on their outside expression. While how someone dresses can be a clue to their personality, really it can't tell you much!
i really appreciate the thought you put into this. i like to think that when i wear any vintage look, i'm mainly doing it out of the fun of achieving a certain aesthetic, but it's also sort of a racial or gender reclamation (i guess this would depend on the circumstances or person). i often frame 'adventure style' or 'film noir detective' looks, etc. as sort of cultural archetypes in my head when i'm considering them or planning an outfit. the historical implications shouldn't be ignored, and they've never really escaped me so i'm grateful that you acknowledged them here. it can sometimes be difficult to gauge what is (negatively) culturally-appropriative or problematically-based, and to a certain degree you do have to accept and acknowledge and see what you're comfortable with--unless we're talking literal racist artifacts (!!). it's a really interesting discussion to be had.
Thank you for adding to the conversation! I always find with vintage styles it is better to talk through and discuss these things, as opposed to glossing over and ignoring them. The world has come a long way, has such a long way to go, but we can't get anywhere without talking about it all!
When I was a teen, 'Out of Africa' influenced so much of fashion with an adventurer/archaeologist vibe. I loved Brendan Fraser's outfits in 'The Mummy', and that has been a massive inspiration for me too. In 1998, there was a British TV series called 'Heat of the Sun' starring Trevor Eve and Susannah Harker, about an English detective working in Africa in the 1930s - Susannah Harker played an adventurous woman who could shoot, fight and fly a plane, and her clothes were wonderful!
That program sounds so intriguing I'll have to look into it!
I like themes and it really is nice to dress with the theme like a museum, it honors that and gets me into THE SPIRIT!
Thank you for talking about the history of this style. I have always had a hard time wearing faux ivory jewelry because of what it replicates. I think it is important to talk about these things and I really appreciate you bringing up this point.
From my viewpoint, adventure style stays so relevant because the style was adapted for very specific needs. These are styles worn all over the regions of the world because they are hardy, useful, and necessary, at times. Knowing the history behind any place you visit or dream of is always a wonderful thing, but only if we are open to all the history, not just a specific viewpoint. Keep the adventure going!
Excellent advice. I don't know if you realize but the greenish khaki you refer to is better known as "olive drab" to a lot of people.
I've always called it army green.
@@darnelleechols8556 That's another name for it actually because it's the fabric generally used for military uniforms until recently.
Thank you for this enlightenment. That you pair your fashion with the era of experience in which the clothes and travel were about adventures in far off and dangerous places has made this posting engaging in many ways. You are complex, creative and conversive and I'm always interested in your content. Thanks
Thank you June!
I’m seriously into the social history of fashion and style. What was going on at the time people wore these things we covet. So for another vintage gal to bring it up was awesome! Thank you xx
I have really enjoyed all three vids in the 'Adventure Style'; the outfits, the making of the boxes, and your wonderfully detailed analysis on all aspects of said style. Keep up the good work and I sincerely hope that you gain the benefits you deserve from the time and money invested in entertaining (and educating) us. 👍
Thank you!
Hi Bianca!
Love the informative nature of this video. Great content. And thanks for the gentle nudge about being aware of what's going on in the world around us as we struggle in our day to day lives. Empathy keeps us all from being too self centered.
P.S. Love the makeup look. You're beautiful as always.
Thank you Darnelle!
You are so wonderfully thoughtful, I appreciate the amount of care you put into your videos.
Thank you!
I appreciate you mentioning the origin of the Adventure style. It's important to acknowledge that and for the audience to understand how the associations with that style have changed. Also. Love the yellow shadow!
Thank you Darcie!
Red Dirt with Jean Harlow and Clark Gable or Charlie Chan in Egypt or Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile are some travel style movies.
Red Dust..not Red Dirt...was the film that Mogambo was a remake of...
your makeup in this vid is very theatrical and I love it! Thanks for explaining adventure style, another string in the vintage bow
Thank you Kaz!
A modern-ish film (I say "ish" because, unbelievably, it is now 14 years old) with some great period adventure costuming is Peter Jackson's King Kong. Ann Darrow has a couple of gorgeous evening gowns, of course, but she as well as her male companions have very nice travel wear as well
I love that film. It was one of the biggest impacts for me and wanting to wear vintage like Ann Darrow’s wardrobe.
I love that you included the last section.
Great video! I find the safari style fascinating, and this was a great overview of the style. I don’t think it’s necessary to apologize for the style. People still use and wear things that can easily be traced back to some atrocity in history. Hitler created Volkswagen, but people still drive them today. If you look hard enough, everything we now enjoy has a dark past. Safari/colonial style indeed has a dark history, just like anything else. But it’s stylish and timeless, and there’s no to feel guilt because of it.
I really appreciated the take on certain styles and its association with a problematic past. As a poc in a previously colonized, third- world country that has an interest in vintage fashion, I've had to go back and forth with myself on the more political/social aspects of it, especially because, when first exploring the community I did make the assumption that most people that are into vintage fashion probably have more "conservative/ traditional" views, fortunately that's not the case. I really hope the community have more respectful and honest discussions about this . Also, subscribed :)
Thank you for offering your perspective! Luckily many within the vintage community often repeat the phrase "vintage fashion, not vintage vales" While I'm sure there are some in the community who are a bit backwards thinking too, mostly I have seen caring and sensitive people who are aware of history's many sins.
Just wanted to say how much I love and appreciate your videos! You're so thoughtful and creative with a really intelligent, as well as beautiful, sense of style ( And I love hearing you speak - you have such lovely diction!)
Thank you Ena!
I really enjoyed this video. It was great to hear and see your tips and tricks on dressing in Adventure Style. I also appreciated you discussing the historical implications of this style and other popular vintage styles as well. Keep up the amazing work!
Thank you!
My personal opinion on wearing clothing styles that come from darker pasts is that as long as you acknowledge its past, you should be able to wear it. This is obviously in context to the specific style and where you are wearing it too. There are many historic garments that i find striking and beautiful but would never wear based on their historical significance. Certain military uniforms for example. I do think there is a big difference between wearing a full colonial uniform and safari/adventurer inspired style though.
I know in the vintage community there is a lot of discussion about cultural issues with vintage garments. Things such as Native American inspired designs, Traditional Asian dresses (ceremonial or otherwise), and printed fabrics showing other cultures are being widely debated as to whether they are okay to wear. It is of course true that many of these cultures were treated very badly and their traditional designs and cultures then sold off as souvenirs to tourists. However, what if you want to wear a garment because you admire its beauty and the culture it represents? And if its decided its too offensive to wear it then where does it go? To a museum? Back to the descendants from that cultural group? In a box to simply be lost to time??? Who decides? I recently came across a vintage seller who was very conflicted about selling a Native American printed dress from the 1930s. She mentioned that she would feel very uncomfortable selling it to anyone who was white! I found that to be such an extreme opinion and thought that if she felt so strongly about this piece, she shouldn't have offered it up for sale at all.
It's a lot like the discussion about wearing real vintage fur. Should we honor the animal and its life and wear it? If its vintage it did die a long time ago so your not supporting the current fur trade. Or is wearing it just making it fashionable and in turn likely to increase fur production in the fashion industry? And if you shouldn't wear it, where does it go? Either lost in a box or landfill i suppose. I have heard you can donate fur coats to animal rescue charities which very positive, but maybe not what you would choose for your great grandmothers fur still in pristine condition?
Overall who really decides any of these things i guess. I choose to be respectful and admire other cultures with my style choices. That way its always coming from a good place at heart.
Thank you Shannon! I think it really can come down to an item by item basis, especially when it comes to prints. I have a hand painted Mexican souvenir skirt for example with animals on it, but I don't think I could ever wear one with say people wearing sombreros depicted on it, especially in light of the recent US and Mexico relations. Celebrating an item of cultural dress and wanting to wear it because you find it beautiful is super understandable, I love kimono myself for example, but another component of cultural appropriation is the fact that people (in the US I mean in this case) may have been ostracized or made fun of for wearing their own traditional clothing but now when a white person wears it it's no longer bad it's suddenly cool and "fashion". Its definitely a delicate balance, and one I always try and err on the side of offending as few as possible!
This is really similar to my opinion. I think the saddest part is the idea that people who do really love the culture where the fashion is from can be scolded for wearing that fashion. Designers in many countries LOVE putting people from different nations in their creations (I have several American friends who have lived in Africa most of their lives and they very rarely encountered anyone who didn't like it if they were wearing local fashion. Most of the time it was seen as a compliment! So in some sense, is it the factions of western culture bickering and scolding each other while most of the rest of the world (those currently in the groups that are distant "roots" to many Americans) just see it as white people taking part in their culture in a positive way? Hard to say, but I know my friends were met with more resistance here in the U.S. than they ever did in Africa... Quick Edit: I will say, Safari fashion is more contentious than actual current/historical local garb, since it represents a conquering or animal abusing group.
I think it is very different to wear traditional clothing in the actual place it is from, while say, staying with a host family or celebrating with local people, or even at an almost museum style experience (like the places where you can try on historic kimono in Japan), than wearing something here in the US. Many people seem to enjoy having tourists/outsiders try on and wear their traditional clothes, and this is like the most pure and lovely form of cultural exchange really because usually everyone is learning and sharing with one another, but it is different here in the US because here people have either been made fun of for wearing their own traditional dress, or were made to adopt western dress entirely and assimilate. The different racial tensions and history are what complicate this issue further within the US, and I personally find that very understandable.
To offer some perspective as an Asian (living in my home country atm, but also lived in the States) I can't help but to disagree with wearing traditional Asian clothing as long as its past is recognized. I understand that there might be no malicious intent... however, traditional clothing in my country is used for ceremonies where we honor our ancestors, special holidays with cultural significance, and marriage. The traditional clothing is special, worn during specific contexts in my country. Next, there is a past and continued fetishization of Asian women, the "othering" of Asians in America, not to mention the history of racism (policy and otherwise) in America. These reasons combined, It is difficult for me to justify the use of traditional clothing just for someone's fashion and style.
That being said, there are contexts where I appreciate seeing the traditional dress being worn. For example, our country has palace cultural visits where visitors can rent out traditional clothes. Other examples include culturally significant events such as festivals, dances, weddings, museum events, etc. In these cases, wearing the traditional garb can be seen as a sign of respect, cultural exchange, and very much appreciated! Hopefully this provided another perspective of an ongoing debate with many opinions.
Thank you for your informative Vintage Style video, your video was very inspiring from fabrics to different colour combinations when creating the adventure style outfits. Your profound understanding about the history of fashion and how it evolved with the times was fantastic.
Truly entertaining video.
Thank you Rose!
I love the way you styled these looks! I actually have gone back and forth myself with loving vintage items and style but understanding there is a dark history to a lot of it. I have such an appreciation and interest in history and the style and fashions of the past however I do not have the mindset of the past. It’s something I’ve really struggled with however I think it’s important to acknowledge the good and the bad of our history and I think you have done a great job of explaining this! ✨
Thank you Laurie! As many within the vintage community say, vintage fashion, not vintage values!
At my 1st job in the late 80s, we were expected to wear business attire. One of the directors always wore one of his selection of identical 1960s -70s polyester safari suits, with (for example) a bright apricot shirt & multi-coloured patterned tie. The safari suits had a big patch pocket on either side of the chest, another at each hip & around his middle, a belt made out of the same matching fabric with an identical buckle. The jacket sleeves were short & the pant legs long & his suits in colours like brown, powder-blue & beige - worn with cream coloured vinyl zip-up loafers. He thought he was a real catch. It was hard trying to keep a straight face - & still is, even now lol
OMG amazing, too funny. I would not have been able to keep a poker face!
I had a feeling you were going to wrap up this video with your thoughts on the dark past of what we now call adventure style. Thank you for doing so and for bringing an extra thoughtful dimension to another interesting instalment!
Thank you Kristy!
If you haven't seen it yet, you really should watch "Hatari" starring John Wayne, Red Buttons, and Elsa Martinelli! Lovely casual wear in that movie!
I'll have to look into it!
Thanks so much for the dialogue at the end of the video. Enjoyed it very much. Good thoughts. As a teacher I often discuss this type of things with my students and so am always glad to hear it from a "real world' setting!
I recently discovered your channel and enjoy your look books, I love classic styles and wearing dresses. My friends sometimes tease me, but I feel happy when I 👗 up.
Thank you Cheryl! You keep dressing how you want! As long as you are having fun than you're doing right
Girl, keep going! Eventually, your friends will probably catch on and start to copy you! The trend setters are always teased at first ;)
I've always really liked vintage 'adventure' style but didn't know it was a thing until now! lol I've always love indiana jones, when I was little I used to dress up as him lol
I’ve always semi-liked the look of ‘Safari’ style from a distance, but will never wear it because the image of colonialism always comes to the forefront of my mind-particularly King Leopold in the Congo. I’ve always stuck more to an Army/Military style-esque, with it having the same color palette. Thank you Bianca for the realism on the history behind the style! Regardless of my thoughts, I think you look amazing in this style! It looks like second skin!
Thank you!
I really love this makeup look, it inspires me to try something a little more creative.
Thank you Monti!
Great video packed full of helpful 'adventure style' tips!
I like that you added on some historical facts behind the safari/adventure style look doll.
Thank goodness going on 'a safari' in this day & age doesn't mean adding another tiger pelt for display on your lounge floor!! Xx
Thank you Jo!
Thank you. You are very thoughtful.
Thank you for not shying away from the icky parts about fashion history 💜 I live in a country that had been colonised by one power or another since the phonecian era (pre ancient Rome) up until the 1960s. Our country has been plundered and many beautiful artefacts destroyed or defaced by successive conquerors, dressing up as the people who would've come here in the past to oogle at my ancestors feels a little strange BUT I still love certain aspects of both safari style and colonial fashion in general. (I should add that we certainly had it a lot easier than other colonies and didn't suffer from the mass genocides that other places experienced)
Thank you for offering your perspective Sarah! I think knowing the history of the style really helps me to try and create more inspired and adventure "vibe" outfits without an ensemble turning into a direct costume, or like an exact cosplay of the worst history had to offer. Though here on the channel I have veered a bit more directly adventurer, I still wouldn't don a pith helmet again (I had one for a few safari posts on my blog in the past before I was mores sensitive to this issue).
@@TheClosetHistorian once again, thank you so very much for confronting the less desirable parts! On a side note, I caught a glimpse of a TV show called The Last Post yesterday on the BBC, it appears to have some great 1960s everyday British fashion in a desert military base. Don't know much about it beyond that but it could potentially serve as some great style inspiration
12:14 OHHH lOokie at those Indian Jones like boxes, the mystery boxes whats in those crates? ancient Egyptian pieces you got on your travels?
Now I gotta go re-watch Mogambo, one of my faves!
Running videos in the background and perked my ears up when you were talking about the implications of safari style and the dark histories-- I think in another 50 years we'll be looking at fast fashion with the same sort of horror that we currently look at trophy hunters with (sweat shops, pollution, the waste dump of clothing in Africa that killed the local fiber markets there....). There is so much that is so very problematic with any fashion, any era of fashion you care to name, and unless you're a nudist, you're gonna be dealing with it on some level.
I live in New England. If it ain't freezing, it's blackfly season, so nudism is OUT.
I've come to some of the same conclusions you have here, where one should be aware of what it is one's wearing. But in the context of today's manufacturing of fast fashion, my personal stance is that wearing vintage and/or upcycling fabric/clothing etc. does give one at least one a slightly better soapbox to stand on.
Safari style movie suggestion: Baz Luhrmann's Australia
I appreciate your note about cultural sensitivity ending the video as so often vintage apparel (especially reproduction companies) ignore the societal implications/concerns of the clothing and the images they recall.
The style in that movie is great!
You always give us something to think about.... love it thanks !!
Thank you Pamela!
I was entranced by the 80s series 'The Flame Trees of Thika'. set amongst the expats in pre-WWI Kenya. Loved both the delicate white Edwardian dresses and the jodphur,white shirt and long boots looks. Eps avaiable on UA-cam.
I'
I'll have to look into it!
I like that you acknowledge how problematic the clothes can be. I'm Kenyan and we only got independence from the British in 1963 so it's still a relatively recent development. I personally would not wear any safari themed clothes but I think it's ok to do so as long as you know the history behind it. Not like Melania Trump who wore a very offensive outfit complete with jodhpurs and a pith helmet on her recent trip to Nairobi
Yeah the insensitivity of the current US presidential office and all their associates seriously knows no bounds! One would think they at least have aides to help them not be entirely SO offensive, but clearly that must not be the case.
Any of THE MUMMY movies have lots of this look.
I absolutely loved your adventure style video. I know that in your side hustles vid you mention how tough it was to make it, but is there any chance you would do another similar video for a different style? Anyway, love everything you make!
Thank you Anastasia! Don't worry, there will be more themed look books coming, I just need to better plan and budget them in the future!
Your eye shadow is spectacular!
Thank you Tamra!
You have got style. Many thanks for inspiration and adventure vibes here 👍🏻😉
Thank you!
My daughter was studying the life of Anne frank and had to dress as her and do a biography. I messaged the Jewish museum in Sydney to get their advice on wearing a replica star and they sent a wonderful email back saying for educational purposes it was OK, so good to get advice if never sure about these sensitive issues.
so I love love your ancient Egyptian look. I just got an Egyptian print skirt TODAY! ITs not vintage, but its like the pyramid wall art and ritual. so I ordered an Ankh and a Eye necklace that I hope you like. The timing is really synchronicity that this was the suggested video of the day.
Thank you Jody!
Thank you for addressing the issues with Safari style and Western museums. Even while studying art history, the truth of how many of the artists I studied got their inspiration (think Gauguin) or why Egyptian art is included in Western art history survey classes was not talked about or owned up to enough.
I really enjoyed the history at the end and the video as a whole. ❤
Thank you Dona!
B -- help a sister out! I'm in need of some inspiration on how to style 1940's style trousers, as well as those fab 50's circle skirts. Any thoughts on where to look for dedicated videos on styling either piece? I love your lookbooks!
Pinterest is great but for some reason so many trouser shots are from mid-hip up (SO unhelpful!)
Loving your hair and make up here.
Thank you!
Clothes, fab. Makeup spectacular. 🧐
Thanks for being so comprehensive!
My adventure style’s a bit more polar, but I can’t wear thick wool socks and jumpers in summer 😂
Safari style may have a problematic past but all I can see is the Wild thornberries lol
That's a great association compared to the rest so I say keep it ha!
Thank you, I learned a lot from this video!
Ditto
Thank you!
Historical Emporium makes late 19th century reproduction Safari Bush Jacket and Pants and the Riding Boots are available in black and brown leather the boots go for less than $200. As for the pants you'll have to get the suspenders due to the fact that the pants doesn't have any belt loops the pants are a late 19th century design. The Belt loops didn't even become available until somewhere either in the 1920's or 1930's. As for head wear I would wear the Territory Hat or the Slouch Hat both made by Akubra available from David Morgan Hat.
Delightful video (as always). Also I think many of us have a very similar Pinterest board (all with that Nicole Kidman fashion spread on it). Mine is called "Adventure Librarian" and thanks for helping me add to it
Thank you Heather!
Some safari style outfits are in Agatha Christie’s death on the Nile and the campy Charlie Chan in Egypt. Along with the question of cultural sensitivity, Charlie Chan was not oriental a term no longer politically correct. History should be shown and perhaps not glorified but it must not be lost. It shows we are more aware at this point in time and hopefully more respectful. If you fear a backlash you could turn your travel adventures into an early woman photo journalist. I’ve also been thinking you could use the crates you make to be on ships as you dress to travel the world.
Swisslions, that's a great idea. Recycle the crates as cargo for a ship voyage. Travel around the world. Love it!
Have you seen the movie African Queen? It’s kind of on the safari-style spectrum.
Also, I’m really glad you mentioned the history of safari/adventurer/explorer style because I feel like a lot of people don’t know. There’s a whole controversy about wearing pith helmets in the Steampunk community as well, which definitely ties in to your overall theme here. Those cultural implications are definitely there no matter what you wear. I just think it’s important to know what those are. Thanks again!
Thank you Weslyn! I haven't seen it yet but I keep meaning too as it has been on netflix for a while, so hopefully it's still there!
"You just look like youre getting on a much smaller plane" ha!
+ of course thank you for making the context a big chunk of this video
Thank you!
Wonderful you are so talented! I appreciate your work and videos.
Thank you Maria!
You Are A Source Of Information and thank you for this informative vid.
You made me love adventure style :) I've pinned a tone of pictures from your inspiration board! Side note: Grace Kelly and Ava Gardner are the most beautiful women ever, aren't they?
Should we wear Hugo Boss? Should we wear Chanel? Drive a BMW? I don't know. Maybe not. But what should we wear then? Everything that exists has its a dark side. I don't know.... something to think about. And write about.
Thank you!
I’m of Russian/ Eastern European descent, and in Russia a large chunk of the population identify as Christian orthodox, which is pretty much fundamentalist Christianity. In some churches, women aren’t allowed to enter if their hair isn’t covered or if they are wearing trousers (of course this isn’t the case in touristy areas, although you will see women with headscarves there too). Also in countries with oppressive regimes in the past in general, I feel like vintage style or elements of it can be associated with the past, restriction, poverty, war, etc. So there is a bit of a stigma with wearing longer skirts or more classic style in general. I am lucky that I grew up in Europe, but When I visit Russia, some people will ask me if I am going to church , though I am very atheist. I think it’s important to separate style from the era it was in, though there is a line when it comes to things like symbols . I very much like military inspired 1940s style but I would definitely not wear an SS uniform! Russia has a very painful history in general and I think that’s why many people might not get vintage, but it’s definitely changing, there’s a designer called Ulyana Sergeenko for example who is bringing vintage style to Russian couture.
Makes perfect sense! And Ulyana Sergeenko makes some very beautiful things!
Vintage style, not vintage minds! 💗
Indeed!
Love that look. Thsnk you#
What tips and outfit ideas would you give to men?
Check out The African Queen with Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
“Out of Africa” is a good one!
Kind of along the same idea, I recently had a conversation about wearing a dress inspired by a traditional southern "belle" i.e. plantation owner's wife. I also felt that despite how pretty and how many parallels there were in other areas of the fashion world, there were particular aspects of the style in question that couldn't really be separated and made me inclined to think they shouldn't be worn. . .but I am not sure if I am being extreme. I wonder what others opinion would be.
Very interesting
Adorei o vídeo e ótimo você comentar sobre a relação com a exploração das Américas e Africa, porque sim, tem relação com uma época negativa da história e muitas vezes essa pode ser a interpretação de quem vê.
Beijos, amo seu canal!
Thank you Nine!
Another old adventure movie is The African Queen, starring Humphry Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.
Thank you!
I think I have watched it like 10x's!!!
Thank you Denise!
You are a joy to watch.
Thank you!
I love what you said, especially about the outfit having a time and space. Even if someone was to wear that style in Africa and people were nice about it and they didn’t feel like they were insensitive to the people, it still feels like that person is celebrating what the people who wore that outfit in the past did, or at least not condemning it. People in Egypt and all over africa (I assume) and the Arab world are extremely nice to tourists, especially western white tourists, it doesn’t mean that they’re okay with whatever they’re wearing. Sometimes the tourists don’t understand the powers that their passports have lol. colonialism is not over, it just has a different shape and more political implications
I totally agree that while people may not say anything or seem visibly offended, that doesn't mean one hasn't possibly done damage! Better to be overly sensitive as a visitor to someone else's home than to be hurtful, even if only on accident
I think.history must not be dependet on power nighther sience ,we can wach tv and be angrey as we feel .or to recognise falts and sin.but history and sinece must not spring an obtain out of power sourses.
If we avoid that we can take knowledg with no more pationce unneeded.
Thank you for your buetifull work.wish you good luck.sorry for bad spelling🌹💝🥀
Way to go on this one!
Thank you!
On the one hand, clothes are clothes. If you like the look of certain clothes, wear them. On the other hand "Fashion is not an island. It's a response!" (As The Ultimate Fashion History would say). I'm inclined to say that wearing an Indiana Jones style kit is worlds away from wearing a Nazi costume, for instance, but others may say that someone who descends from and benefits from the foul deeds of colonizers can't understand how foul they truly were. Like, I don't know if wearing "campaign" style is as bad as a Nazi costume to someone from India, or parts of Africa, bc I'm not someone from India or Africa.
However, I'm inclined to believe that we've later assigned different cultural associations to this style, despite how young the darker connotations are. As you mentioned, when I think Safari style, I think Zoo. I think preservation. I think the Cairo Museum. When you say adventure style, I think The Mummy and Amelia Earhart. The fact that we call it "Adventure Style" is indicative of a new almagamated fashion style blending multiple vintage fashions associated with adventures in the unknown: exploration, nature, and the pursuit of knowledge. In some cases, even a love for and attempt at understanding different cultures.
I don't think that Adventure style is the same as "Campaign" or "Colonial" style, although it draws partially on those sources. I'm as comfortable wearing a pith as I am wearing a beret. They're both military headwear that worked its way into mainstream fashion (well, one of those did...). Although I'd never wear either out of personal preference 😂.
I really appreciate the thought provoking discussion of the implications of this style though. Something we can think about no matter what we're wearing. Like, when you're wearing fast fashion, what are you implying? When you wear "gypsy" 70's style where does that come from? Sometimes our moral reasoning is sound, but it's always good to explore the origins of our fashion. After all, why else would we love vintage style if not for the history? 😊
Evie from The Mummy
Clark Gable made this movie in the mid 1930s also
I follow someone on insta that went on a trip to Egypt. Everyone on the trip was dressed vintage... Late 1800s to about 1920s. It really smacked me as insensitive. I understand the love of the afternoon but you have to remember colonialism and orientalism and all the problems involved. I appreciate that you speak on this.
Travelers also wore this
This is my style but I have always worried about evoking colonialism instead of 'ooh functional and pretty!'. I've always loved really functional canvas or twill pieces paired with the loose diaphanous, colorful shirts and accessories.
Film: Out of Africa
Talking about the cultural history & context of styles is so important, thank you for that important addition. It’s part of why I feel a little uncomfortable with that style of fashion editorial, they can sometimes edge towards trivialising or glorifying that era of history.
So many editorials go several steps too far! It's easy to turn the setting, and even the local people, of an area into just "props" for the benefit of "wow so fashion" and it can be very yikes!
Australia with Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman
Loooove
The girl in crocodile dundee
This is a great thoughtful video. My thinking is that we should try and see beyond the social constraints and oppressive culture that are associated with 50's and 40's fashion and look instead more at the way we go against the fast fashion trends which are polluting the world we live in. Also it is worth remembering that wearing secondhand clothes is not a new invention. People have been doing it for centuries and there was always a hand me down trade where people could buy clothes which had been sold on by wealthy owners. One good example is shown on the bbc tv documentary a stitch in time ; which is the episode about the hedge cutter : ua-cam.com/video/wtFoYua2dQw/v-deo.html. It is the history of a secondhand garment which was at one point super expensive and passed down. There is no point in feeling bad or guilty about wearing vintage.
Thank you Nathalie!
#vintageclothingnotvintagevalues
I appreciate what you said about wearing 1900 safari style in Africa... that would probably be horrible! But as for cultural appropriation, I think it is fine as long as it is done with actual interest in the culture. "Imitation is the best form of flattery" is still true. I think the label sounds worse than what it is. cultures have always exchanged art, which includes fashion, for years. No American is insulted by kids in other countries drinking coca cola, and I think it's actually worse to assume that "cultural appropriation" should only go one way, ie white western world to other cultures. It creates a divide that does not need to be there. I think it would actually create more unity if white people like myself weren't chided for being passionate enough about other cultures to wear the fashions. The idea that a white woman can't wear a sari (while respecting the culture by not wearing the mark on her head unless she is Hindu) or an African head scarf simply out of love for the style and excitement about the culture is so terribly sad to me. And I hope no one would chide an African, Asian, or middle eastern girl for wanting to dress in a Mexican or French style... Maybe I'm rambling but hopefully I'm making sense!
I suppose I just figure that as a white woman, it is never my place to decide what is and is not offensive in relation to cultural appropriation. It is a very hot button topic I realize.
Were things always equal, a true exchange, I would agree that there is no inherent problem with loving traditional clothing from another culture enough to want to wear it too, but there is a history that cannot be ignored. The reason I myself would not wear a full kimono, a sari, a traditional ensemble from an African culture (unless perhaps asked by someone from that culture for a teaching sort of reason or for an event such as a very traditional wedding) is because the history of my own culture, white american culture, is to oppress or ridicule the people these items truly belong to. For me it goes back to the fact that many people have been teased, denied jobs even, told they were less than for wearing their own traditional dress, whereas as soon as I do it is suddenly just fashion and totally cool.
I personally believe cultural appropriation (the current negative understanding of it) does indeed only go one way, because the history of power and discrimination only goes one way. This is suuuch a tense topic, and I totally get appreciating the traditional dress from other cultures, I adore kimono for example, but it can be such a delicate balance to wear something respectfully, that most often I err on the side of not wearing things from other cultures at all in order to not offend. These are just my personal takes on the issue of course, and again as I have said I do not consider myself eligible to be a definitive voice on this topic. I personally really do tend to err on the side of caution because I wouldn't want to cause anyone any pain when it is so easy to simply wear something else. I truly believe some things are just not for me to personally enjoy wearing, and choose to appreciate them on others and within their own cultural context instead. I think if I were to overstep that I would deserve to be chided, informed where I have gone wrong, informed of context I may have been ignorant of before my transgression. I think my view is probably pretty extreme, but many of my views on many things tend to be so.
Emileigh of the blog Flashback Summer does a lot of great posts covering related topics and will interview various other vintage fashion bloggers to discuss cultural appropriation, so her blog is really worth a read for more honest and careful discussions of these issues. www.flashbacksummer.com/2016/09/intercultural-vintage-questions-on-qipao.html