Glam Slam: Go Global!

No passports necessary to try out the global look trending everywhere right now. But with the bright colors and bold prints, the trend can be tricky; so I asked the wonderful Melissa Magsaysay, author of “City of Style: Exploring Los Angeles Fashion…,” to give some tips for getting it right.

Melissa loves the global look and says, “The trend makes it easy to wear finds you’ve collected during your travels and that look great regardless of price or label. They are cool simply for the interesting design and story behind where you collected it. That said, worldly goods should be worn with a light hand so that you don’t look totally overdone or costume-y.”

Here are Melissa’s Global Style Suggestions:

Don’t wear one head to toe look from one country or culture, unless you are trying to literally emulate the country or culture’s dress. The best part of the global trend is taking bits and pieces from several sources, mixing them up and making them feel fresh.

Accessories are a perfect way to try this trend. Solange Knowles wrapped a graphic patterned turban around her head with a bold, tribal looking blazer as a way to add more interest to a white tank top and denim cut offs.

A little of the global look goes a long way. Don’t pile too many patterns on top of one another. Think of these strong graphic prints as accents to your foundation and let them sing not be drowned out by one another.

As arts and craftsy as the global look can come off, it can also be perceived as sexy and sophisticated. Miranda Kerr wore a chic and somewhat provocative tribal looking dress with a much fitted bandage style top and cutouts. It showed off her flawless figure, while adding an extra layer of depth with a bright and bold global pattern.

Because the global trend is generally made up of strong colors and prints, temper your clothing with accessories done in natural tones and materials. Try wood heels, or brown leather sandals. Earthy hues will temper all of the loud color and feel perfectly appropriate when worn with global inspired pieces.

— Ryan Patterson