How To Wear Leopard Print Without Looking Tacky

Most of you have probably seen that leopard print is all the rage right now. It is the hit trend of autumn and everyone seems to be wearing it. I remember when it started to resurface in the fashion world a few years ago.   Either you looked extremely high fashion, like someone out of a magazine. Or you looked tacky. However over the years the animal print phenomenon has grown on me and I have found myself being attracted to it more and more. My first purchase was a pair of leopard print ballerina pumps which eventually turned into a vast array of tops, dresses and skirts. So when I saw that the print was back this autumn I was delighted and thought I would share with you some tips on How To Wear Leopard Print Without Looking Tacky.

Not All Prints Are The Same

The secret to not looking tacky while adopting the leopard print trend is to choose your prints and colours wisely. The first print that comes to mind when I think Leopard print is the horrible yellow prints of the 80’s. Not a good look. But now fashion houses and material designers have expanded the animal print repertoire and there are now a lot of prints that are softer and more refined. Do your research. You will see what prints look best and what don’t. I personally prefer to go for greys or pastel type colours as opposed to bright ones.

The Blouse

You cannot go wrong with a printed blouse or jumper. A blouse or jumper is so easy to pop on and can go with a pair of jeans for a more casual look. Or with a pair of chic trousers or maxi skirt to look more sophisticated.

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The Leopard Printed Dress

I bought my very first leopard print dress from Mango about 9 years ago. I was working in a French Fashion House at the time and wanted to look the part at our Christmas Event. It was an above the knee grey leopard print dress that was cinched at the waist and loose on the top. I was so nervous as it was a bold choice for me at the time.  I will never forget the feeling of elation when one of the senior managers who was the fashion icon at the time came up to me and asked where the dress was from because she loved it.

The shape and style of the dress plays a huge role. A short tight body con dress in a bright coloured leopard print might look good on some. But definitely not on me. I like to choose dresses with more flow such as a maxi or tea dress.

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The Maxi Skirt

I am obsessed with maxi skirts at the moment. They are so easy to wear yet super stylish and perfect for the summer autumn transition. Plus they suit any body type. The skirt below is not actually a skirt but a dress that I covered with a plain black jumper. The skirt I really wanted has been sold out for the last week.

Accessorize

And if all else fails, accessorising is the easiest way to stay in trend. Add a cute thin leopard print belt to your jeans. Or pop on a pair on leopard print pumps or booties to make a statement. Or of course the easiest option is to go for a leopard print scarf. Either way adding that little pop of colour and print will make your outfit stand out.

Whatever way you choose, wear whatever makes you comfortable and makes you feel good in your body. Nothing is more attractive than feeling good in your skin. So do what is best for you and you will shine.

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