How to wear: Prints that are darker and more masculine this year

07 August 2014 - 02:01 By Penelope Mashego
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Print has crossed over. The trend that women have been wearing for ages is no longer just for men on beaches in Hawaii.

Featured in shows for designers like Prada, Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana, print in menswear is slowly making its way into men's wardrobes around the world.

This season's prints are darker and more masculine, and they can be floral, check or any other print you've fallen in love with this last season.

Since clashing prints are also the way to go, you don't have to ditch your bright prints from the last season just yet. Mix the old with the new by wearing a dark bottom and bright top or vice versa.

Add fab to everyday drab by wearing a pattern shirt under your suit. Remember it doesn't have to be bright - you can still follow the trend and look professional at work by teaming a print with sober, solid, dark pants or jacket.

If you can't find what you like in the Western version of the trend, try African print. It can be tailormade to suit your look in an affordable way at an African print fabric shop, where you can pick any pattern you like. Take it to your tailor to custom make into your choice of style.

When in doubt, pick the simplest thing. Camouflage is the way to go if you like the trend but are not sure where to start. If you want to keep things proudly South African, the Madiba shirt (batik silk shirt) is another option.

Solid-coloured shoes with your print shirt or pants are the best look. Stay away from multicoloured shoes, especially sneakers if you will be going for bright floral pants.

For a more spring-ready look, put on your turn-up chinos, loafers and print shirt.

And don't forget to wear this year's biggest accessory, your beard.

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