Leopard print or animal print has been around since the dawn of time (literally). After the cave man discarded it in favour of proper clothes, it seemed to disappear from the fashion scene for quite some time.
I am reliably informed however, that the real out-there fashion icons would often be seen flashing a hint of animal print, even in the 1920s.
Of course in the swinging 60s it came back with a vengeance and the high street was awash with it. Remember the 70’s icon, Debbie Harry of Blondie fame (you’ll need to be as old as me to know who I’m talking about)? She managed to wear leopard print from top to toe and still look cool.
As for the rest of us, I think we need to tread a little more carefully. I’ve only really grown to love it in the last two years or so. Three things I’ve learnt about leopard print in that time:
1) Too much and it can easily tip into Bet Lynch territory (google her!)
2) Just the right amount and it can give the most boring of outfits a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’
3) Never wear animal print to Chessington Zoo (yes, you’ll actually find that on the rules before being allowed to enter!).
As usual, I’ve done a little hunting around the high street to find my favourite pieces. Each one represents just the right amount of animal print that even us over 40s can pass off as chic.
Leopard Print Clothing on the High Street
Here are a few of my personal favourites, from the high street right now. I would wear any of these, probably toned down with some neutrals – black or white. The sweatshirt from Karen Millen is currently in the sale but you’ll have to be quick!
My favourite item is definitely the sleeveless top from ASOS which I think would work really well with denim. I love the floral addition.
Leopard Print Accessories on the High Street
I’m not sure you can be my friend if you haven’t got a leopard or animal print scarf hiding in your closet somewhere; everyone has one, right?
The skinny belt would provide a subtle hint of leopard print to any outfit. There are some equally good zebra print belts on the high street right now.
My favourite item that I have been lusting after for some time is the Accesorize bag – I definitely need it in my life!
Leopard Print Footwear on the High Street
Okay hands up, I already have a pair of leopard print trainers in my wardrobe so I’ve included them here. They are from New Look and at £15, I don’t think you can go far wrong…
Unless of course you want espadrilles, then the pair from Cara are the absolute dream. I’m also rather taken with the sandals from Top Shop that I’m pleased to say are made for wide trotters like mine!
Leopard print seems to be increasingly popular, are you a fan or a little nervous of it? Have you got a favourite leopard print item in your wardrobe?
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8 COMMENTS
Sarah MumofThree World
7 years agoI’m walking away feeling a little sad now because I don’t have any leopard print. I’ve never wanted to wear it myself, yet it always looks good on other people! I especially like it on trainers. Yours look very cool.
Suzanne
7 years agoYou must get at least a scarf! What about a belt? I think it would look great on you. There’s no one it doesn’t suit. What about a sweatshirt?
Catherine
7 years agoYou know me, been wearing it for years! Bags, scarves, even a coat! Love it. Got some Top Shop leapord print sandles from a couple of summers ago, they always make a boring pair of trousers look a little less dull.
Suzanne
7 years agoYes I thought of you as I wrote this! Look at those gorgeous shoes!
Catherine
7 years agoOoops, leopard!
MummyNeverSleeps
7 years agoI’m a bit obsessed with leopard print trainers and those mint Velvet ones are really speaking to me!
Plutonium Sox
7 years agoI totally just googled that rule at Chessington Zoo, that’s so funny! I like that they take care of the animals like that though. I’m not generally a fan of leopard print but actually I really like those trainers.
Nat.x
Tricia Cooper
7 years agoNo gave a top away today. Might be just not right for me near my face. Still have another top in England but don’t think I will be wearing it.