Leopard print is something that never truly goes out of style, and it's not hard to see why. It's one of the easiest ways to add a dose of distinctive flair to absolutely any outfit. It can definitely stop traffic and turns heads. However, like most daring looks, leopard print can be tough to pull off successfully.
Thankfully, wearing leopard and other animal prints is a fine art that can be mastered with enough know-how and practice. Here, we'll take a closer look at some of the best ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe in a way that's classic and chic. Which idea will you be taking for a spin first?
1. When in doubt, pair it with black.
Like most potentially intimidating patterns, it's really easy to wind up with too much of a good thing when it comes to leopard print. However, pairing leopard with black is a great way to ground it and embellish a bold look.
Pair a pretty leopard print statement top or tee with sleek black slacks or skinny jeans for a gorgeous weekend ensemble. Wear a silky leopard camisole with a black pencil skirt, a chic black blazer, and no-nonsense pumps for a fantastic office look. Dark neutral browns like cocoa or coffee work well, too.
2. Balance your leopard with neutral accessories.
Are you longing to step out in a leopard print dress but scared of looking dated? Forgo the skin-tight dress and reach for something soft and flowing instead. Then break up your leopard by pairing it with neutral-toned accessories.
Cinch your waist with one of this season's stylish leather belts in basic black or neutral brown. Top your look with a matching leather jacket and pull on a pretty pair of leather booties. You'll look (and feel) like a million dollars, guaranteed.
3. Understand that a little leopard goes a long way.
If you're new to leopard print and looking for a way to rock it that's as subtle as it is stylish, this is the technique for you. Treat your leopard print like an understated accessory instead of the focal point of your ensemble. It's a great way to direct attention exactly where you want it.
Do you want to accentuate your waistline? Draw attention to it by pairing a narrow leopard belt with a little black dress. Want to lead people's gaze to your face? Try a stylish pair of leopard-framed sunglasses or tie on a gauzy leopard scarf.
4. Reach for a leopard print bag or clutch.
When you think of the type of handbag that goes with just about anything, a leopard option might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it really should be. Consider the fact that your standard leopard print is really three neutral shades - black, white, and khaki - working together as one. That means it has the potential to go well with just about anything when it's on a handbag. Try it and see for yourself!
Pair your leopard bag with any neutral monochrome ensemble and watch how it makes it pop. Reach for a leopard clutch as the perfect way to add oomph to an understated pastel palette. Make leopard your new secret formula for making any outfit look sleek, stylish, and put together.
5. Add leopard to a menswear-inspired look.
Leopard isn't just a print that's inherently sexy. It's also incredibly feminine, pairing wonderfully with boyfriend shirts, sporty looks, and menswear-inspired outfits. Add a leopard shoe to a sharply tailored suit for a head-turning punch of visual appeal, and you'll see exactly what we mean. The Lucky Women's Eadda puts the finishing touch on any outfit.
Leopard flats, sandals, or pumps are also fantastic ways to dial up the aggressive girl appeal of just about any outfit. Remember, balance is the key to success, here. Use leopard footwear as a way to take anything, from casual weekend wear to your go-to athletic look, from "ho-hum" to "wow" in an instant.
As you can see, learning how to positively rock leopard print and make it your own is far from impossible. It just requires a little understanding as to how to use it and know-how as to what makes it a winner. Start experimenting today! You just may find your new go-to signature look.
