What better way to celebrate fashion and style than through a photograph? Renowned globetrotter, Tamu McPherson of All the Pretty Birds provides readers with a fresh take on street style and photography. A former New York native and attorney, Tamu moved to Milan at the age of 29 and has been living there with her son and husband for five years. You can find her snapping away at all the fashionable people from Milan to New York. Through film, she captures and transpires all the coveted style mavens for her blog, as well as for Grazia.It and Harper’s Bazaar. Not only does she capture innovative street style and looks fresh off the runway, but she also comments on her subjects, adding more to her blog than just a view through her lens. With each post, you can see Tamu’s love of fashion and culture. Below are a few of her style inspirations and trends to help you tap into your inner pretty bird:
1. Ethnic-inspired
Not only have her stylish nomads been spotted in tribal prints and African-inspired looks, but Tamu has embraced this trend as well. The street style icon was recently photographed wearing suede and fringe, two popular Navajo style pieces. To get that ethnic feel, try African-patterned tunics and maxis in earthy tones, desert hues, and tie-dyes. Not quite sure if you’re ready to go that tribal? You can always play it safe with accessories such as African-inspired beaded necklaces, neck cuffs, feather earrings, Navajo-print purses, and wooden bangles. The options are endless to achieve a chic, tribal mash up.
2. Leopard
If you follow Tamu, then you know she loves her leopard prints. From handbags to shoes, she wears this wild animal print effortlessly. Have you been waiting to get your paws on the latest styles from the safari? Try to stick with one statement piece as your focal point such as a scarf, heels, or a dress. You’d be surprised, but a little leopard goes a long way! The key is to explore your inner animal while keeping it minimal.
3. Tying it All Together
Why wait to wrap up in style? One of the key aspects to Tamu’s look is her head gear, with the turban being her go-to accessory. It can be a very daring, bold look, but it will definitely turn heads. If you’re having a bad hair day, it’s a simple way to make your outfit instantly chic while hiding those stubborn strands. If this trend seems too daunting, try tying a colorful scarf in a fun print or unique shape around your hair instead.
4. Bright, Bold Colors and Prints
One way to capture Tamu’s attention is through color. She is known for her injection of color into her outfits, especially when she wears neutrals and browns. It’s hard to imagine spring and summer without brights like this season’s trendy oranges, yellows, and reds. You can go for the extreme in a head-to-toe look or just punch up your outfit by adding color only in the details. Bright, futuristic prints are fun but sticking to a color scheme is important. Try basic denim jeans with a printed, colorful top or a classic tee with printed trousers. The entire rainbow is up for grabs, and there’s no limit to how bold you can go.
5. Denim
It’s classic Americana with a twist, and Tamu sports everything from denim-on-denim to chambray tops and skirts. It’s all about the jeans. For spring and summer, colored denim in both pastel and bright shades are heating up. Worried about it being too youthful? Opt for a look taken straight from Tamu’s own style book and dress your jeans up with a blazer. As far as silhouettes, skinny fits are in, along with flared and wide-leg styles. It’s the perfect addition to your “after 5” attire.
6. Color Blocking
It’s time to whip out the old color wheel. As seen on Tamu’s blog, color blocking is most effective when sticking to just two or three colors or patterns. Forget everything you’ve been taught about coordinating, this is the only trend where clashing works. Go for bold colors or subtle hues to compliment your style, while also exploring different geometric patterns and shapes. Remember, it’s best to keep it simple. Adding a splash of color to a neutral can easily make your outfit pop. However, if you wear too many colors, you’ll end up looking like you lost at a paintball fight.
Tamu’s favorite accessory is, of course, her camera, and her style is adventurous, sophisticated, and elegant. In fact, she’s just as fashionable and cool as the subjects she shoots. Her number one tip is to be true to your own personal style. And who knows? You may be one click away from being the next stylish bird she photographs.
Image Source Credit: Tamu McPherson, alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com