Animal prints, specifically those of the leopard variety, are here to stay. They've far outgrown the "trend" category in the last couple of years, having been firmly placed next to ballet flats and cigarette pants as true classics. There's only one problem: the fashion victim looks cheap while a fashionista looks chic incorporating leopard print into her lifestyle. As an accent piece, there is nothing that beats the wild pattern to add a focused, interesting, element to any look. Here are a few pieces, and tips, to help you maximize this ultra-useful wardrobe piece.
Too Chic to Speak: Make a Silent Statement with These Leopard Accents
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Bag It
Who said you have to stick to traditional leopard colors? The subtle addition of red in this bag makes it stand out from the standard. If you go for extra color, just make sure it works with the rest of the print, hot pink or ocean blue can come off childish and gaudy.
$939 at Farfetch.
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Belt It
You'll be tempted to add this to a basic black or otherwise neutral ensemble, and that's all right. But try putting it with another print, like flowers, as well. Make sure the print has negative space in the background so the leopard doesn't end up looking like too much. A solid color with complementary-colored flora will do the trick.
$45.50 at Club Monaco.
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Cuff It
The cuff bracelet adds a bold element to your favorite bodycon LBD or solid going out look. Add some studs for a modern feel and you'll be wearing a leopard version long enough to start calling it vintage.
$68 at Macys.
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Top It
We love a chic leopard jacket to wear on those chilly spring and fall days. Wear it with anything. Wear it with everything. It's okay to be that girl when you've got something on this gorgeous. Of course, if full-on isn't your style, you can always go for a coat that has just a touch of what you're looking for...
$626 at Farfetch.
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Top It Again
...like this leopard collared coat.
$670 at Stylebop.
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Heel It
It goes without saying that a leopard flat is tres chic. So stylish we wonder why Audrey and Jackie kept to basic black. But a leopard pump is the height of sophistication and grown-up sex appeal. Your 21st century glass slipper awaits.
$795 at Net-a-Porter.
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Wrap It
Every girl should have one of these, especially because they're available all across the board from Forever21 to Michael Kors. Denim jacket, favorite T-shirt, boyfriend jeans, leopard scarf = done.
$48 at Ralph Lauren.
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Frame It
Whether you've got a touch of leopard in your sunnies or your eyeglasses, you've got serious style.
$290 at Need Supply.
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Underwear It
Leopard has long held court as a standard print for lingerie because it's sexy. Try it in a pair of panties, a bra, a silk robe, or a corset.
$79.16 at ASOS.
