Want to dress like a fashionista? Try wearing leopard print. There are so many prints out there that come and go season after season, but leopard print is here to stay. While this spotted print can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt, Christian Dior is thought to have modernized the print and made it a true fashion staple. Dior was the first designer to swap out real animal skins for leopard-printed fabrics on his haute couture runway in 1947. Now you’re sure to find leopard printed pieces in every fashion girl’s closet.
This fierce print adds a flirty edge to any outfit, and will bring out your wild side no matter what the occasion. From neutral shades of brown to colorful spots, there are endless versions of leopard print and so many ways to sport this eye-catching pattern. Feeling bold but don’t know where to start? Here’s a few of our favorite ways to rock leopard print.
A breezy kimono
The best part about a kimono is that you can throw it on over anything for splash of print. It’s usually lightweight enough for even the summer months. Try wearing a leopard kimono over a little black dress for a fun night out. For a casual look, throw on a printed kimono over your classic solid colored t-shirt and jeans. Add checkered Vans for an effortlessly cool outfit.
Source: Dreaming Loud
Our Pick: AE Leopard Midi Kimono, $29.95 (click here)
Shoes
Make a statement with leopard sandals for summer. Leopard flats are a timeless staple piece that can be worn through the seasons. For the fall, leopard booties will keep you on-trend and warm. Pair them with skinny jeans and a black sweater for a fashionable weekend outfit.
Source: Theteacherdiva.com
Our Pick: Madewell Frances Loafer in Leopard Calf Hair, $158 (click here)
Accessories
Let’s face it, leopard print is bold and can be a bit intimidating. If you’d rather try leopard print in smaller doses, opt for a printed belt or handbag to add a pop of print against a solid outfit. A classic white button down tucked into jeans will show off a leopard print belt in more of a subtle, sophisticated manner.
Source: Themotherchic.com
Our Pick: Halogen Genuine Calf Hair Belt, $45 (click here)
A bold dress
Turn heads in a leopard print dress. This overload of feline charm can be worn more easily than you might think. It can be worn casually for lunch with white sneakers and a denim jacket. For a nighttime look, try more of a fitted silhouette with your favorite heels. Top off the look with a sleek leather jacket to add even more punk-rock edge. A leopard dress is also a chic, confidence-boosting way to take on the workday. Add a blazer to take leopard into the professional realm.
Source: Fashionjackson.com
Our Pick: M&S Collection Animal Print Belted Midi Shift Dress, $60 (click here)
Mixed prints
Let’s face it—leopard is totally a neutral. Make a fashion statement and mix and match your prints. To keep your mixed prints from looking too busy, choose complementing colors like black, brown, and white. Mixed prints should also be contrasting in sizes—think a striped button down with a leopard skirt. A classic combo? Polka dots with leopard print.
Source: Depop.com
Our Pick: Free People Printed Bailey Denim Midi, $78 (click here)
A leopard midi skirt
Midi length skirts are the fashion girl’s favorites, and for a good reason. This mid-calf length can be dressed up for work with a blouse and heels or keep it cool with your favorite graphic tee and sneakers. Try a leopard midi skirt in a satin material that makes it easy to dress up or down.
Source: Skirttherulesblog.com
Our Pick: J. Crew Pull-on Slip Skirt in Leopard, $98 (click here)
There are endless ways to wear leopard print. Whether you’re looking to add it in small doses with your accessories or treat leopard as a neutral and mix your prints, you’ll always be fashion-forward with this fabulous feline pattern. Leopard is a perennial trend, and we don’t think this print is going to be leaving the runways anytime soon.