Urban fashion jungle:

We’ve come a long way since the original men’s safari suit. Thankfully, that little number has bitten the dust but this year’s Spring fashion is giving a whole new twist to jungle-inspired fashion.

Leopard and zebra prints come in different forms including jackets, dresses, jumpsuits, hosiery and accessories such as clutch bags and have been reworked in luxe materials to suit the urban jungle in which most fashion clients roam.

Designers from around the world have gone wild for all things safari in the recent round of fashion shows. Max Mara used their classic neutral palette; Balenciaga used spots and stripes with splashes of colour; Kenzo had some fun with bold orange, green and yellow; and Herve Leger had their interpretation of the trend with earthy tones, beading and crocheted knits.

As you open your wardrobe to look for inspiration for the Spring racing carnival and the warmer months, here’s some pointers on the safari look.

• At work – team a smart leopard print jacket with a soft jersey tank, skinny jeans (or short) and heels.
• The classical safari-cut jackets, created by Yves Saint Laurent in 1968, have evolved to look terrific teamed with a crisp white shirt. If you want a bit – but not too much - colour, throw in some tangerine.
• Don’t be afraid to have clashing animal prints, but keep the accessories simple if you do so.
• For accessories, think about tan leather belts, raffia wedges, feather earrings or beaded jewellery.
• If you're in the market for something new, think about a flowing animal print summer dress.