Nature-inspired animal prints are one of the boldest fashion trends you can wear (year-round), which can sometimes make it challenging to figure out how to pull-off this dramatic look, without being gaudy or tasteless. Featured in this style guide are tips on how to wear animal prints (while still looking chic and stylish).
Top Tips For Wearing Animal Prints:
1. Wear Animal Prints in Neutral Colors
Avoid flashy neons (such as lime green cheetah and hot pink zebra prints). Although bright colored animal prints are quite the rage on the Jersey Shore, if your goal is to look sophisticated and classy, vibrant-colored animal prints tend to look garish, and are considered more of a passing fad than a long-lasting trend. When in doubt, earth tones and neutrals are your best bet.
2. Opt for Animal Print Accessories
Rather than donning the complete animal print look from head-to-toe (which would be totally acceptable if you’re Nicki Minaj or Lady Gaga), stick with accessories. Handbags, scarves, shoes, and jewelry are a great way to spice up an outfit without going overboard (or looking like you’re a part of a traveling circus troop).
3. Choose Classic Styles of Apparel
An animal print can look absolutely sensational on apparel, like a single-button, fitted blazer or a silk wrap dress. The key to choosing apparel featuring an animal print is to opt for well-constructed, timeless shapes that flatter your figure, without being skintight or too revealing.
Step out of the cage this season and express your fierce side with this fabulous look!
Clever buttons says:
I am obsessed with animal prints! Great post, especially as I have so many single items and get confused how to style them! Love it xxx
Christina-Lauren says:
Thanks! The key is to keep it simple – the animal print is bold enough, so only one piece (per outfit) is all you need.
Tianna says:
not a huge fan of animal prints, but with the right look, they can look really great. I just am not sure I can pull that off!! ♥
Christina-Lauren says:
Hi Tianna! In small doses, animal prints look great on everyone. It’s just the head-to-toe look that should be avoided.
Jennifer Essad says:
I am very surprised that animal prints have stayed in style for the last 3-4 years, I know they have come and gone before, I wear them in small doses. My favorite is a pair of Donald J Pliner shoes w/the calf hair leopard print. They have a way of making me feel so ____!
Christina-Lauren says:
Animal prints (much like florals and stripes) are one of those patterns that will never go out of style. And while they may ‘come back in’ at certain times, quite frankly, they’re never really ‘out’.
Whitney Worthington says:
I love a fun animal print shoe! Especially in something textured like calf hair, it makes a more glamorous impact!
Christina-Lauren says:
I completely agree! Animal prints in luxe fabrics, like velvet, silk, or fur are the best.