Your Go To Guide To Wearing Leopard As A Neutral
Photo credit; Pinterest
As far as I am concerned, leopard is a basic.- Jenna Lyons (fashion designer)
Leopard is one of those things that no matter what year or decade, it is always “in” in some way, shape, or form. Like that cool aunt that you gravitated to as a kid, finding yourself playing in her make-up, spraying on her perfume or playing dress up in her clothes, and to this day you still gravitate towards at family functions. That is the best way to describe leopard - It will always pull you in!
How to pick leopard pieces; go for them in their purest form. For example, if you are reading this and think about that leopard peacoat you rocked in the late 90’s, then you remember it is trimmed in hot pink, It doesn’t make the cut! You want a piece that is clean and stands alone. So if you’re in the line at H&M waiting your turn and find yourself rummaging the cash wrap goodies which gets us every time (you know and I know we don’t really need hamburger printed socks) and you spot a simple leopard envelope clutch that is all leopard (a leopard unicorn), classic yet modern, grab it! That is a treasure!
The Check List-
A leopard bag- all leopard or with a classic trim like black or brown/camel. This could be a clutch, tote or even a hobo bag. A leopard clutch is an ultimate piece in my opinion because it can be that one piece that makes your outfit pop whether it’s jeans and a tee or a night out look.
A cardigan or jacket/coat - Again, just like a leopard clutch, a leopard cardigan can take a drab look and punch it up with style. Take a classic monochromatic outfit up a notch with a leopard peacoat and you have created an outfit that will be coveted.
Shoes- Flats, booties or heels; try to have at least one of these if not all three. They are a game changer. When I have on my leggings, a cozy sweater and light jewelry, my leopard flats push that look right over the finish line to stylish status.
A scarf or belt- Imagine yourself in your casual uniform of a tee and jeans- adding that simple pop of a scarf will add simple but (bold, prominent) style. A leopard belt would do the same to an otherwise ordinary look.
Skirt/ shirt or dress- Having any of these pieces is like getting dressed on your birthday, though it is an ordinary Tues. You create an instant outfit that will wow at anytime. Don’t feel marginalized to wearing leopard at night or for a special occasion take your everyday basics in simple colors and use them to temper the leopard print for a daytime look.
The one thing that all of these pieces have in common is that they are all staple pieces that you need/have in your wardrobe anyway. So when you think about covering your wardrobe essentials make sure to include leopard!