Google leopard prints and fashion and you’d most likely end up with images of old Hollywood starlets like Gene Tierney, Bette Davis, and Louise Glaum, or women like Debbie Harry, Catherine Deneuve, and Audrey Hepburn. No shade intended, but there’s something disconcerting when the fashion references to a trendy look all centre around women of a certain vintage. Thankfully, the return of the leopard print — and, animal prints in general — have gone into an evolutionary state. There is the still the non-demure side of these prints which we love, but the patterns are now featured on more directional cuts and contemporary items.
We love how Raf Simons‘ ocelot coat at Calvin Klein 205W39NYC comes with such exaggerated shoulders, it looks almost like armour. Ditto Max Mara’s smokey leopard jacket in a boxy cut and worn with such nonchalance over a leather bomber, pencil skirt, and pants (yep, the styling at the Italian house for Fall is on point). Elsewhere, the leopard print springs up at Tom Ford in a multitude of acid hues on clothes that feel apropos to street gear. But the trend doesn’t just stop at just the big cats — Danish label Ganni showed some of the quirkiest ensembles festooned with zebra prints, while the same pattern given the rhinestone-studded treatment at Saint Laurent exudes after-hours glamour.
Here, we curate our own list of animal-print items that look far from dated.
Add some rock star glitz to your shirt with a metallic sheen. Leather pants recommended.
Carry this structured number as a top handle or sling it across your body — either way, it’ll make a handsome bag for casual days off.
Danish label Ganni is our go-to brand for statement prints and this quilted jacket doesn’t disappoint with its zebra stripes. Not to mention, pretty Victorian ruffles.
Roomy enough for your mobile phone, cardholder, and keys, this little number gets a pop treatment in a contrasting emerald green and topaz colourway.
The zebra motif gives this rugged outdoorsy style a more delicate finish.
Blend rustic tartan with brash leopard prints for an eclectic choice of accessory.
For a muted take on loud leopard prints, this khaki green number will do the trick.
Channel some devilish style when you walk in this pair of Western-inspired shoes.
There’s a romantic old-world charm about a tan leather bag that’s emblazoned with prints of insects.
Fresh off the brand’s metamorphosis-themed Fall/Winter’18 show, this frock sports an abstract print of butterfly wings. An arty-meets-sophisticated number for that next cocktail party.
You can’t deny the fabulous Ziggy Stardust effect with this whopper-sized platform boots, festooned with crystals.
Give the classic trench coat a little more pizzazz in these cat spots.
The unusual silhouette, the bejewelled kitten heels, and the Day-Glo colour scheme makes this pair of pumps hard not to spot.
We love the versatility of this piece which can be worn as a dramatic duster jacket or maxi dress.
The Italian shoe label’s racy take on the leopard print trend sees it creating this up-to-there piece. The va-va-voom factor is undeniable with this pair.
Inject some evening glamour to your day bag with a smokey leopard print. It won’t scream for attention, but will still stand out.
Prices unavailable unless stated.