Leopard is a print that has elicited strong reactions from both fashion fans and haters. Depending on how it’s worn, the pattern can be seen as tacky or stylish. Luckily, it’s easy to make the style your own! You can wear the print in small doses in neutral colors or combine it with other patterns. You can also add a splash of color by wearing a leopard-printed coat with a solid-colored dress.
In the 1920s, actresses like Joan Crawford wore leopard skin coats and other garments, and Christian Dior made it a staple of the New Look fashion line. During the 1960s, it became a symbol of feminine sexuality in lingerie and swimwear, and in the 1970s it was worn by women with a sense of rebellious respectability against the cultural values of their time, including Mods and rock and roll musicians.
The Leopard Look is a style that can be worn to express your dynamic personality and presence. The pattern signals both power and femininity, two qualities that you naturally possess. You can choose to highlight these qualities in unexpected (to others) ways, such as choosing oversize leopard prints or choosing colors that are more stylized and not found in nature. You can also incorporate it in accessories, such as shoes and handbags — as long as it’s used sparingly. A little bit goes a long way, and it’s best not to mix more than one leopard-printed piece at a time.