Does wearing leopard print give you the right to be trendy?
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Have you noticed?
The leopard print has made its way back into fashion in recent years. We see it both on the catwalks and on the backs of fashionistas in the streets.
But does that give it the right to be trendy? Is the spotted print back in vogue?
These are the questions I have been pondering.
In this article, I will attempt to answer them. I will start by briefly recounting its history and then try to shed some light on its fashion effect. Finally, we’ll see how to wear leopard print. Because for such a controversial pattern, it would be good to know whether or not it gives you the right to be trendy.
A Brief History of a Wild Print
In 1925, American actress Marian Nixon posed on Hollywood Boulevard wearing a leopard fur coat, with the animal on a leash beside her… The same scenario repeated in 1950 with Eartha Kitt, who posed in similar conditions: animal skin coat on her back and feline at her feet.
While the history of the print in fashion starts on somewhat debatable grounds, its popularity has fluctuated over time. The feline print has taken various directions. Many celebrities have appropriated the spotted print, connoting it as either classy or rebellious depending on the era. It appeared on catwalks as well as in the pop and punk culture of the 80s.
The leopard print is therefore not a new phenomenon. However, while it has often been associated with fur since its inception, that is no longer the case today. Designers and fashion houses are gradually stepping away from this industry to make way for faux furs and more environmentally friendly fashion innovations.
From Catwalks to Thrift Stores: When the Leopard Takes Off
It’s simple, you can find leopard print everywhere. With major designers, on the catwalks or right outside fashion shows, but also on Vinted and in thrift stores. It’s precisely because it’s an ambivalent piece that presents a vintage yet chic character that everyone can make it their own.
History has shown us that the feline print obsesses. And no matter its style, class, or gender, leopard print captivates. And it’s not without reason. So, if it hasn’t aged a day, there’s a good reason for that. This can be explained by the relationship we have with it.
Our relationship with this garment is closely tied to the animal itself. The leopard is a powerful and fierce feline. It fascinates as much as it intimidates. In this regard, wearing leopard print would provoke the same effect: a feline connection that grants us the power to feel confident.
This feeling of confidence when donning a leopard shirt, jacket, or skirt has given credibility to labels that have adopted the piece to transform it into ever more eccentric creations. During fashion shows, the spotted print showcases increasingly original looks, like Versace, which did not hesitate to twist the traditional leopard print into a flashy version tinted with neon yellow. It’s a bold choice: you either love it or hate it.
Personally, I am more a fan of those vintage pieces that you enjoy hunting down in the depths of a thrift store, and that tell a story. These authentic leopard pieces in natural shades of beige, brown, and camel.
So, where do we place leopard print?
What label do we stick to this animal print? Is it a rock, punk, vintage, or classic pattern?
Is leopard print a basic, or a delicate piece that we must take care to match well, so as not to do it a disservice?
Well, in searching for answers, many agree that the leopard piece is unique, that’s a fact, but above all, it’s a timeless basic that is easy to wear.
No matter its form, whether sophisticated, luxurious, rebellious, or sexy, leopard print can be worn with anything, provided you don’t fall into the trap of over-sophistication by opting for a fancy and colorful model. Otherwise, the feline print pairs perfectly with light shades like beige or white, as well as black, which it balances out, or denim, which it elevates. Red suits it just as well as green.
And when it comes to mix and match, you can also dare to layer prints by combining leopard with floral patterns or plaids. However, be careful not to match colors that are too opposite; otherwise, you risk creating a combination of bad taste, too exaggerated.
So to answer the question from the beginning of the paragraph: leopard print is an eternal independent. It doesn’t like to be put in a box, and even less to have a label stuck on it.
I think the best advice we can give you for wearing leopard print is to not confine it to a specific style. Dare to mix it with the aesthetics that matter to you. Leopard print will always find a little place in your outfit, because it definitely goes with everything. Give it the tribute it deserves; it’s worth it! :)
Ultimately, is wearing leopard print trendy?
Not surprisingly, it’s a resounding yes. Wearing leopard print will give you the right to be trendy because it’s a timeless piece that has stood the test of time with a story. It’s a print with character, a symbol of power and ferocity, that softens with a good balance of style.
You won’t be disappointed with the multiple combinations you can create with this feline print. And to prove to you that it’s definitely trendy, here’s a selection of some pieces. This will give you inspiration for composing your future outfits.
You can rest assured that you are going to have fun!
The Leopard Print Blouse: The Vintage Imprint
This is the piece that definitely makes me think of vintage. Because we find it in a multitude of shapes and cuts. This makes it an essential item that is hard to do without. It pairs extremely well with belted denim, a pair of boots, and a fitted blazer. But I also love wearing it with a little knit sweater on top, which just reveals the collar of the blouse.
The Leopard Skirt: The Cozy One
The leopard skirt is very elegant as it reaches mid-calf and is fluid. In this case, it brings a little retro vibe to the outfit. With a black turtleneck, for example, a pair of leather ankle boots, and an autumn hat like a beret, it’s the perfect fall look.
However, it can also be worn during sunny days, with a pair of open sandals and a casual top.
The Jacket: A Basic to Have in Your Wardrobe
No matter its form: fitted jacket, blazer, or even a fluffy coat. The leopard jacket is a must-have for fall or winter. Its warm tones warm the hearts and add roundness to the outfit. But it’s also a year-round piece that can be adapted to your desires and the temperatures.
For this kind of piece, if you can find one in a thrift store, that’s the best. Because it definitely brings an authentic vintage retro feel to the outfit.
The Leopard Ankle Boots: The Ones We Cherish
Ah, leopard ankle boots, I must admit they have something unique about them. And they are the kind of piece that divides opinions: you either love them or hate them.
For my part, I adore them. I find they are the accessory that definitely elevates an outfit. I love wearing them with a good basic black or gray jean to enhance the rock’n’roll yet chic side. However, they also pair well with a little leather skirt, but always in a dark shade to balance the eccentricity of the boots. A biker jacket or a beige trench coat works very well too!
I hope this article has convinced you to wear leopard print. And even better, that it has helped you understand how this timeless piece can add character to your outfit.
💡 And if, like me, you love wearing patterns, Pauline tells you how paisley print has become a fashion trend. Or how to wear patchwork to stay trendy.
Image credit: © Sandra Semburg
