How to Embrace Latin American Fashion: Tips for Men
Latin American fashion is as unique and diverse as the region itself. With stunning marvels such as the Amazon rainforest and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, it is little wonder that fashion designers are looking to the area for inspiration. According to thegoodestate.com,
it is Latin America-inspired men’s fashion that has recently been basking in the international limelight, with garments that embody all corners of the picturesque continent. Masculine, yet casual, the sartorial creations have already stolen the hearts of men from as far and wide as the US, UK, Canada and Australia. Here is a crash course on what to look for when stocking up on Latin American styles.
Panama Hats
Men’s accessories need not be boring. And if you think Panama hats are no longer in fashion, then you could not be more wrong. Seen on celebrities such as David Beckham, Mick Jagger and Gregory Peck, Panama hats are definitely making a come back. Whether you are going formal or casual, a Panama hat can add a sense of style to any outfit. Wear it with a linen suit for the Riviera look or dress it down with a Hawaiian shirt and a pair of shorts. Dating back to the 17th century Ecuador, when they were handmade from the straw of the toquilla palm plant, Panama hats were the country’s top export by 1944. While the classic Panama is lightly-colored and pinched at the front, today manufacturers offer countless variations on tradition, crafting hats in a variety of colors and designs, such as the trilby with a narrower brim and high crown. To see just how many styles of Panama hats are currently out there, check out Artesano’s collection of straw and wool-felt hats.
Guayaberas
While over the years, artisans have created their own interpretations of this casual shirt, traditionally the guayabera has featured two or four front pockets, and two vertical rows of small pleats or embroidery. The shirt is usually not tacked into the trousers and sometimes comes with slits on the sides. While the exact origins of the garment are not known, countries such as Cuba, Puerto Rico and Mexico claim it as their own. Traditionally produced in white and pastels, today the shirt can be found in a huge variety of colors and patterns. The garment is usually made from linen or cotton, making it ideal for hot summer days. Select one with long sleeves for a formal look or one with short sleeves for casual occasions. Those looking for a quality Guayabera should not miss Cubavera’s range of classic shirts.
Ponchos
Dating back to around 500 B.C Peru, the poncho started out as a large piece of fabric with a head opening in the center. Traditionally used for warmth or to repel rain, today the versatile cloaks are also often worn as a fashion statement. Asymmetrical fabric layering, colorful patterns, hoods and openings for the arms are just some of the more typical elements that characterize modern-day ponchos. Made from translucent material, Velcom’s rain poncho features stylish side slits, half sleeves and a diamond logo. Alternatively, opt for an alpaca-wool poncho with a Mexican-inspired design and fringed edges from Gamboa.
