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Leopard, the Marmite of prints, sometimes intimidating, never for the faint-hearted.
Do you think you’re over it or, he whispers, are you too old? Think again. Animal print swarms the High Street.
Walk into Zara and you won’t be able to move to search places, and M&S recorded a 98 per cent increase in searches for leopard last month; If you can, catch her dress, it’s almost sold out.
What makes this print so evergreen? Is it the bold confidence he exudes or because he is so versatile? Classic, but never boring, the leopard injects joy just when we need it most.
Forget about the weather and the elections for a moment and embrace your wild side, these pieces are grown-up and versatile to wear at any age: leopard is for life.
Denim is your friend
Actress Jennifer Lawrence at the Christian Dior Cruise show at Drummond Castle in Scotland earlier this month.
At the recent Dior Cruise show in Scotland, Jennifer Lawrence gave a masterclass in leopard print, letting her coat do the talking (no doubt much needed for an outdoor show in chilly Perthshire).
The accompanying dark jeans were a genius move. The denim softens the leopard, making it feel more modern and youthful, instantly turning you into a cool cat.
Pair it again
Don’t you have the energy to look at me like a leopard from head to toe? This season, choose your print and add something simple like a white shirt from Albaray, £29, to keep it relaxed.
Actress Rosamund Pike at the screening of her film Saltburn last December in New York City.
A slip skirt is everyone’s best friend as it provides quite the statement, leaving you free to keep the top half plain.
Change it up with a black top for evening like Rosamund Pike has done here, or throw on a denim jacket with sneakers if casual is your thing.
Dip your toe in
If you don’t feel like including leopard in your clothing, then accessories will add a touch of interest, whether it’s a belt, bag or shoes.
Adding a little leopard can enhance any simple style. It will always be a topic of conversation, even in small doses.
These flats from Ancient Greek Sandals will be a summer staple to elevate any outfit without looking like you’re trying too hard.
Add some shine
Leopard will grab all the attention, but don’t forget a little subtle sparkle.
The chocolate tones of leopard will always pair with gold jewellery, as animal print icon Dame Joan Collins knows.
They complement each other perfectly and the warmth of the gold enhances the look in what is a classic combination.
Joan Collins steps out with her husband Percy Gibson in Los Angeles in 2021
Give him quiet luxury
While the leopard might call you mafia wife, leave the red lipstick and white stilettos behind. It’s more about the quiet luxury trend these days,
Ganni’s leopard pants (£235) are the ideal crop if you want to try this summer’s ‘It trouser’, Mint Velvet has a version for £99.
Khaki is a great color combination, as seen on the Dior catwalk, and will give you the put-together look you need, whether it’s a utilitarian jacket or a trench coat like the chic one from Hush at £189.
A model walks the runway during the Christian Dior Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-25 show, as part of Paris Fashion Week, in February this year.
Color is key
If traditional leopard doesn’t suit you, then why not add a little color for the ultimate style statement?
Deep reds can be an expensive alternative to tans, as seen on the Alexander McQueen runway.
Baukjen’s vibrant version would look great on darker skin tones.
Keep it classy
Leopards never change their spots, nor should you change your style.
Look at Kate Moss, a true leopard fan. La Moss has been wearing this print for decades.
Kate Moss at the launch of her book, Musings on Fashion and Style: Museum of Fashion, at the Hotel de Crillon in Paris in 2019
If you want to make a splash, like she does here, with an elegant column dress, keep everything else understated and elegant. A simple black clutch and sandals are the perfect and discreet complement to a striking dress.
