Tribal exotica is a much-needed antidote to all that modern monochrome. It is the vibrant thread that links designers such as Dries Van Noten, Alber Elbaz at Lanvin, Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg and Gucci’s Frida Giannini, among others. They are all weaving their ideas into a cross-cultural patchwork that embraces the magic-carpet motifs of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, the Ikat patterns of Indonesia, and the embroideries inspired by ancient Chinese dynasties.

The tribal look is the big sister of boho or folkloric. It delivers the colourful, multi-patterned and decorated counterpoint to precision-cut, navy trousersuits, neat white shirts, and perfect beige trench-coats and skirts.

Where so much is clean and functional, tribal is cluttered and fun, and makes no apology for it. Tailoring may be finished with simple gold hoop earrings, but tribal is AAA (Accessorise All Areas).

Celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Heidi Klum, Beyoncé and, most recently, Katy Perry at the Coachella Festival, have all been parading their tribal colours, courtesy of the aforementioned designers.

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Weekend by Maxmara
African Print Dress
£198.00





Bertie Daytona Strippy Ankle Cuff Flat Sandal
£75.00





Marc by Marc Jacobs
Little Tate printed tote
£172.11





T-Bags
Embroidered jersey maxi dress
£302.39




Lotta Stensson
Printed jersey tank dress
£108.86




Roberto Cavalli
Jewel Tooth drop earrings
£385.20




Erickson Beamon
Swarovski crystal tulle chain necklace
£792.25




Tribal Halter Maxi Dress
£30.00





Diane Von Furstenberg
Daisy long dress
£503.00