Lifestyle Mirror

When Karen Blixen (played by Meryl Streep) took up residence in Kenya in the film Out of Africa, the baroness was forced to simplify her life. To get a similar safari-chic look, the rule of thumb is always “less is more.”

Follow Dinesen’s color palette and stick to peaches, corals, and earthy browns. Africa’s climate is hot and humid, meaning it’s best to use waterproof products when possible (waterproof mascara is a must). Also, swap a cream blush for powder as cream formulas absorb into the skin, making the color last longer. Use a stain on cheeks and lips to add a flush of color that will stay put well into the evening. Toss the gloss—heat and gloss are a recipe for a sticky lip disaster. If you’re itching for a pigmented pout, a peachy matte lipstick for an evening bonfire will do the trick. Tending to your skin in humid climates can prove quite the feat. Multitask whenever possible. A tinted primer with SPF will give your face sun protection while evening out the complexion and aiding in sebum control. And for those unexpected moments when t-zone oil rears its ugly head (during a jungle photo op, perhaps), grab your blotting papers for a quick fix while on-the-go. —Sarah Howard