Going Brazilian – We All Should Give It A Try

By Brian Maynor
April 4, 2014

What pops into your mind when you hear, “let’s go Brazilian?”

Most people think of waxing, but that is not the only reason to embrace your inner Brazilian.  This weekend is the Columbia International Festival and this year the themed country is Brazil.  Whether it was planned or not, this is a great week to highlight Brazil because it is Sao Paulo Fashion Week.

South American fashion, in particular Brazil, is all about sex, but doesn’t mean it is trashy, skimpy or excessively risqué.  Brazilian fashion is a huge reflection of its culture, which embraces individuality, sensuality, and movement.  Here are a few tips and inspiration looks to bring out your inner Brazilian:

1.    Be Bold.  Color, print, patterns and texture all play very prominent roles in Brazilian fashion, and while they often mix it is not necessary to make everything over the top.  Subtly may not be their strong suit, but muted colors are a great way to highlight texture and material.  Often times when you wear a loud color that is where the visual interpretation ends.  So opt for a simple fabric in a bold color like these chinos, or an detailed fabric in muted colors like these jacquard pants.

2.    Get Moving.  Dance, soccer and capoeira are three huge influences in Brazilian culture and that same athleticism and flow weave into their natural grace and poise.  They stand tall, move gracefully and with music and dance everywhere always seem relaxed and ready for a spontaneous samba, as do many of their outfits.

3.    Over Accessorize.  For Brazilians you can never be over accessorized and the bigger the accessory the better.  Arms full of bracelets, chandelier earrings and necklaces are common sights even with lively, bold outfits.

4.    Exuding Sex.  Stilettos; short skirts; tight dresses and plunging necklines are very common in Brazil, but revealing is not the only way to be sexy.  Flowing skirts with long slits and sleeveless dresses and tops are also great ways of keeping the sexy subtle and understated rather than overt.  Being sexy is not about the amount of skin you show, it is about the confidence you radiate.  Brazilians are famously confident and that is what drives their sex appeal.  If you have confidence in yourself you will be sexy in everything you wear.

5.    Be Yourself.  Brazil is often ranked as a global plastic surgery center, but that is due in large part to foreign clients, because Brazilians are consistently ranked high in overall happiness.  The Carnival theme of ‘finding your fantasia or fantasy’ is actually part of the culture.  Embracing and showcasing who you want to be every day is tenet of Brazilian life.  They don’t waste time waiting for reasons or opportunities to dress up or have their nails and hair done.  Waking up is reason enough.

Most of us are guilty of slumming it more than we like to admit, because we don’t see every day as a reason to celebrate who we are or want to be.  While my dance moves may remain dormant, I am going to actively embrace living my fantasia every day and hope you will too. 

For more information on the Columbia International Festival check out their website:  http://cifonline.org.
 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

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