Harper's Bazaar leads the summer trends forecast in their December 2011 issue, where Transformers 3 star, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley models an array of ethnic-inspired outfits. We've seen graphic tribal prints make a colourful splash on the Spring 2012 runways from New York to Paris. 



In South Africa, this isn't a new trend, it's one that has been eternal. Women here wear traditional shweshwe fabrics through all seasons. Historically, it was worn in dress-form by specific cultural groups for special occasions. But in recent years the shweshwe print has merged its way into a more modern, mainstream market, thanks to local designers. 



It's exciting to see this trend extend it's vivifying influence to the rest of the world. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley marches to the beat of a tribal drum in this invigorating fashion shoot for Harper's Bazaar.



Rosie Huntington-Whiteley clashes colours and prints in an ensemble by Burberry Prorsum. Warm, spicy shades are brought together in a black and orange striped jacket and blue and ruby print skirt. Striped brown Burberry wedges and beaded clutch echo the tribal style.




Animal prints are dipped in a rainbow of colours for Spring 2012. Rosie flirts with fringing and tiger-stripes in a ruffle-tiered dress and scarf by Missoni. How cute are the runway shoes?




Earthy tones and ethnic beadwork combine in a geometric cut-out dress by Donna Karan. Rosie wears a large statement necklace by Donna Karan and wooden bangles by Alexis Bittar.




Rosie takes a bold stride in a blue and white patterned suit and handbag by Derek Lam. One has to be really fearless to wear a folkloric print from collar to hem.




A vertically striped Bottega Veneta dress in shades of an African sunset. I like how the stripes are designed to create an optical illusion.




An architectural design in glossy ombré stripes. Rosie wears a strapless dress by Giorgio Armani with chunky necklace by Etro. I prefer this look in editorial over runway.




What is your verdict? Are you for or against the 'Tribal Trend'?


 
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