30 Days of Outfit Ideas: How to Wear Animal Print

I never knew that fashion could be so controversial until I started writing about it. After all, it’s just fashion, right? Wrong. Apparently, people have very, very strong opinions about these things. People besides me, of course. I still shudder when I think of the fallout from that time I bravely stepped forward and proclaimed that high-heeled sneakers were ugly. Ditto for “mom jeans.” And everyone knows I’m not a fan of the French manicure. (See how I slipped that one in? Feel free to rant below. I know I have it coming.)

But there’s probably no topic more divisive than my stance on the animal print. I. Love. Leopard. Notice the extra punctuation? I added all those periods to drive home my point. I love it. I think it makes absolutely everything you wear it with look cuter and more fashion-y. It can be worn by young and old. It is neutral and almost universally flattering.

I. Love. Leopard.

There are people, however, who loathe animal prints. And not just leopard. They hate zebra and giraffe and even snakeskin. Sigh. And to those people, I suggest a stripe, the other Love of My Life. But it’s not the same. A girl needs more than one bold print in her life.

If you’re still not convinced of the utter fabulousness that is leopard, let me make a case for this timeless-yet-trendy print. And, of course, lay down a few ground rules.

1. Wear leopard with everything. Except more leopard. (One leopard piece per outfit is plenty. Except when it’s not, as in a couple of the adorable outfits below).
2. A pop of leopard is everything. Everything. A bag, A belt. A loafer or a pump. Game-changers, every one.
3. Try leopard with neutrals. With brights. With denim. And even with other patterns. It’s that versatile.

Still need proof? These pictures are worth a thousand gushing words.

Source: @DapperNDame

Source: Facilisimo

Source: Sincerely Jules

Source: Styleoholic

Source: luvrumcake

Source: Indulgy

Source: olaizolav

Source: Attire Pin

Source: Front Door Fashion

Source: Facilisimo

Source: Stylecaster

Source: Steal the Look Brazil

Source: Trends Gal

Source: Vogue

Source: ASOS

4 Ways to Wear Leopard

And now that I’ve talked you into loving leopard (I have, haven’t I?), let me offer some ways to indulge in your new leopard obsession, right away.

Shoes

It’s like my three obsessions (metallics, t-straps, and leopard) got married and had a baby! kate spade new york Olana Leopard Print Calf Hair Kitten Heel Pumps, $213, Dillards.com

Bag

Circular Leopard-Print Crossbody Bag, $118, Anthropologie

Belt

Leopard Print Skinny Triple Keeper Belt, $26, TopShop

Coat

Vero Moda Longline Leopard Print Jacket $87, ASOS

If you were on the fence about leopard before, I hope this post has convinced you to give this fierce, fashionable print a try!