The southwestern United States is a true melting pot of cultures, with Mexico so nearby and a legacy of Native American tribes (Apache, Navaho, Hopi, Pueblo and Zuni), there’s so much art and culture from which to draw inspiration. The fashion world’s been taking notice of southwest-inspired street style, most likely since its taken the summer concert tour by storm. If you’re thinking you need a pop of bright color, want to add a touch of pattern or geometric chic into your summer looks, look no further than this corner of the country.
How to Wear: Southwest Style
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Anna Sui
The earth tones, silky texture, pattern and length of this dress make it a definite contender for supplanting your daytime LBD. Brunch, shopping, you name it, this is an instant outfit. Blue wig optional.
Image: IMAXtree
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Temperley London
Red is such a standout color, and most women relegate it to special occasions or nighttime party circuits. Here, you can see it toned down for day with a simple nude neutral geo patterned skirt. The colors make me think of the gorgeous pottery the Southwest is known for.
Image: IMAXtree
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Peter Pilotto
Peter Pilotto has been killing it lately. Here he reminds us of the power of mixing prints. The top of the skirt is comprised of colors the Native Americans used frequently. Firey red, sky blue and black.
Image: IMAXtree
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Simply Sweet
This faded out geo pattern has a whole new meaning when put on a fit-and-flare dress with a peter pan collar. It pairs modern with classic preppy style. Wear it to church, lunch with nana or dinner with your parents.
$55.99 at ModCloth.
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In The Zone
Yes this hypnotic pattern is reminiscent of Missoni style, but it's also affordable, and colorful zigzags are a common theme in the Southwest, too. Double bonus. Every girl needs at least one suit that goes beyond the basics. This is it.
$29.89 at Last Call by Neiman Marcus.
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Going Tribal
Sometimes color can be secondary to pattern, as shown here. Not to be outdone by other pieces, this scarf includes decorative beading that (you guessed it) Native Americans did so beautifully by hand, their work is considered museum-worthy art.
$28 at Nordstrom.
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Sexy Southwest
Black and white never looked so hip. The solid black sides of the skirt have a width-minimizing effect, drawing the eye to the center geo design.
$19 at Singer22.
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Adorned
This is THE bag to have on hand when you're feeling lazy about creating a full look. Any neutrals will do, any at all. Carry this with you and you'll have not only an on-trend color combo, but totally now patterned style.
$79.99 at Mango.
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Geeked
I love the idea of carrying my iPad mini around in this chic case. Don't you?
$14.99 at 6pm.
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Turquoise
This is exactly what your slouchy tanks and T-shirts need to add a touch of femininity and style. Silver flatters everyone, and turquoise is, of course, the Southwest's favorite stone.
$34.95 at Sole Society.
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Southern Stud
Apart from the adorable design that's begging to be worn with any and all of your distressed denim, this tank is adorned with small, golden, triangular studs that will pop in person!
$14.95 at Go Jane.
