There is something about Autumn that makes us feel we should lean into the more earthy tones and fabrics.
Pink get pushed to the back of the wardrobe. Linen is apparently “too summery”. We start thinking about rust, burnt orange and black.
But we have a small problem.
We’re not quite ready to say goodbye to beautiful fabrics and colours just because the leaves have started turning. In fact, when it comes to the perfect autumn fabrics, we think there is a little more room for fun than you might expect.
So, what actually makes a good autumn fabric?
Autumn dressing is all about that slightly awkward in-between weather. One minute you’re drinking wine in the sun and the next you’re looking for your fluffy socks.
This is where natural fabrics really come into their own.
Linen is still brilliant for those warmer autumn days. It’s breathable, lightweight and, we refuse to believe that linen has to disappear the second summer does.
Cotton is another easy one. Soft, comfortable and wonderfully versatile, it works layered under jackets, over trousers or with a chunky knit thrown over the top.
And then there’s silk, an all year favourite of ours.
Silk isn't just for summer
Silk can feel a wee bit too luxurious sometimes but its actually incredibly easy to wear as the seasons change.
Layer it under some suede. Throw a chunky knit over a silk skirt. Add boots. Add a coat. Wear a silk shirt with your favourite pair of jeans.
It’s also one of those fabrics that can make a very simple outfit feel like you made considerably more effort than you actually did.
A little Safarahh silk story
Silk has recently made its way into the Safarahh wardrobe.
Our Indian silks are sourced from and hand dyed in Mumbai before making their way to Nairobi, where our tailors and artisans turn them into the pieces you see in the collection.
It is one of our favourite parts of the journey because the fabric has already travelled quite a bit before it becomes a Safarahh piece.
And that journey is part of what makes each piece feel special. We work with natural fabrics and small batches, with the intention that the finished piece will stay in your wardrobe for years rather than being worn three times and forgotten about at the back of a cupboard.
The Safarahh silk collection
So, if you're looking for a little more glamour this autumn, here are some of our all time favourite silks.
Our Kabras Silk Satin Caftan is probably the most obvious place to start if you're after maximum glamour with minimum effort. Available in Sunset Ombre, Pink Ombre and Olive Ombre satin, it is a show stopper and will look fab for the festive season.
Then there is the Sarima Robe in Silk, inspired by the Japanese kimono and made for those occasions when you want to look effortlessly put together without actually having to put much effort in, shove it over a pair of blue jeans if you’re out for dinner and you’re done.
For something a little more every day, our Coastal Silk Wide-Leg Culottes are a favourite. High waisted, wide legged, elasticated and, importantly, with pockets. Pair with some boots and a black knit for an evening look.
The Shella Silk Shirt takes a fab silhouette and puts it into silk, with those wonderfully dramatic bell sleeves. Available in Luminous Pink, Acid Green and Charcoal, it is a great way to bring a little colour into the darker months.
And if you're looking for something a little more occasion-worthy, there is the Batian Maxi Silk Dress in Charcoal Silk. An A-line silhouette that does the elegant thing beautifully, without feeling like you've tried too hard.
Because really, that is what we love about silk. It can be glamorous without being fussy. It can feel special without being saved for “special occasions”. And it can quite happily make the journey from a sunny afternoon to an autumn dinner.
Autumn, but make it Safarahh
We don't really believe in putting your wardrobe into strict seasonal boxes.
Summer fabrics. Winter fabrics. Holiday clothes. “Going out” clothes.
Why make life so complicated?
We'd much rather have a wardrobe full of beautiful, natural fabrics that can be worn in different ways, in different places and at different times of year.
Safarahh x