It’s very likely you’ve been noticing some incredibly eye catching print crowding the streets and your insta feed as of late.

Why?

Because leopard print is having a moment right now, and you best get on board.

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Leopard Print History

It all started back in 1947… when Christian Dior decided to pull his love for leopard fur into his Spring-Summer collection where he created two dresses for day and night of the print. Designers then followed suit, creating leopard print tops, shoes and bags.

Throughout the ’60s to ’80s, the print morphed into being associated with rock and roll, which enhanced its overall cool. Stars like Blondie and Prince took this trend into straight glam rock style. 

It’s been a print that’s stuck around since those decades, acting like a way to spruce up any outfit. But now… in 2018, it’s back like never before.

Bolder, daring and more fun.

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Leopard Print 101

There’s a few key things to keep in mind when pulling off the leopard print trend…

First — pay attention to the print. You want it to look more real than fake. Sure you want to make a statement, but why not do it in a tasteful way, eh? I was on a hunt for the perfect leopard dress and was not having any luck. Low and behold, this fast-fashion retailer stole my heart and I wasn’t even expecting it.

Second — treat it as a neutral. Neutrals go with anything (especially black) which means you have endless possibilities with this print. I like to pull inspo from the colors within the print itself and then mix with metals and shades of white. Because, ya know. I dig those vibes.

Third — know you can mix with other prints. For me, this is a hard one — one I’m still learning. So, I mixed it with these shoes that pack a logo and slight print in my eyes. I felt the two complimented each other. For you, this could mean way more… stay tuned on my end.

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Ways to Style Leopard Print

So you got the basics, now let’s talk how to style. Here are a few of my faves — 

Leopard and leather — I decided to go this route with this outfit to tilt my hat to the rock era — because Seattle and grunge. I love the mix of sleekness with casual high tops. Ready for a concert, ready for a date night, ready for anything.

Leopard with classic patterns — like I mentioned earlier, try mixing with prints! Not sure where to start? Go for stripes, plaid, floral… the classics. 

Leopard as accessories — not feeling the head to toe print look that wows? Pack a punch with an accessory like a handbag, sunglasses, or my fave… shoes! Lots of fun mules this season. 

Leopard elegance — it’s what everyone’s selling out of: the leopard slip skirt. Why? Because of the sophistication and versatility around this beautiful statement piece. I for one am still on the hunt for this, and plan to share my progress. Could it be this popular number? Or this classic…?

Leopard on your legs — talk about rocker chic. Elevate your straight jeans by adding this vivacious print (don’t go skinny — so out). A crop is key — maybe go wild by adding a red patent bootie. Rawr.

Leopard girl next door — love the effortless look of a leopard coat or jacket atop a white tee and jeans. Keep it easy, but add some sass. Loving the fur and wool options out right now.

Favorite Leopard Print Pieces by Category

Now the good stuff.

Let’s get you some options to create the above! Sharing my top picks by category available now for your Fall styling desires.

DRESSES

TOPS

PANTS

SKIRTS

SHOES

ACCESSORIES

JACKETS

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Share in the comments below your fave way to rock leopard, and what pieces you’ve picked up for this season!

Happy hunting, 

// cb ✌????

photos : mary of @mksportsinista

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SHOP THE EDIT

LEOPARD DRESS | LONG LEATHER JACKET | METAL HANDLE BUCKET BAG | LOGO HIGH TOP SNEAKERS | CAT EYE SUNNIES

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