All You Need to Know About the Leopard Print Trend (2024)

What is Leopard Print?

Leopard Print is a print which imitates the markings of a leopard’s skin. In the case of faux fur, it is used to replicate the appearance of real leopard skin, but it is also used in combination with a wide range of colours as a print for clothing, fashion accessories and interior design.

What does Leopard Print represent?

It is important to distinguish between leopard skin and leopard print. Leopard skin was popular in high fashion up to the 1960’s, at which time it denoted wealth power and sophistication. Leopard print does not involve the slaughter of rare animals and is valued for its eye-catching quality. When used in female clothing it can signify independence, confidence, sexuality and nonconformity, depending on the nature of the clothing or accessory. Men are less likely to wear leopard print, unless they are a rock star or are consciously striving to shock. That said, wearing leopard print footwear or a short-sleeved shirt signifies non-conformist confidence.

All You Need to Know About the Leopard Print Trend (1)

Is Leopard Print 80’s?

Animal print, much of it leopard print, was everywhere in the eighties, so in that sense it is a design which will always be associated with that period of history. However, it is certainly not a design feature forever chained to a particular period of history, like the codpiece is to the court of Elizabeth the first. Mother nature is simply the world’s best print designer and leopard print is a timeless design.

Is Leopard Print on trend?

Absolutely, fashion shows have been dominated by leopard print designs in 2018& 2019, but then it’s never really gone away, and it seems unlikely that it ever will.

Can guys wear Leopard Print?

In a word, yes, though unless you’re a rock star it is unlikely that a leopard print jacket and jeans will constitute your regular day wear. A little leopard print goes a long way, so men are more likely to wear it as trimming on a pair of deck shoes or maybe on a vacation short sleeved shirt.

All You Need to Know About the Leopard Print Trend (2)

Can Leopard Print be classy?

Any material or design, when used inappropriately, can appear ridiculous. Were you to decorate your bedroom entirely in leopard print, the effect would be one of amusing kitsch. Leopard print is sometimes intentionally deployed for trashy effect, most strikingly in the punk fashion of the seventies, but it is much more frequently used to denote style and sophistication. For decades, leopard skin was worn by the rich and beautiful as the ultimate signifier of sophistication and sexual desirability. When Dylan writes, ‘I see you got your brand-new leopard skin pill-box hat’ he uses leopard print as the key distinguishing feature of doomed fashion icon, Eddie Sedgewick’s persona. Contemporary leopard print is heir to that legacy. Take a look at the shoots from 2018’s fashion shows for a reminder of just how classy leopard print can be.

Will Leopard Print go out of style?

The popularity of leopard print will rise and fall but it will never go out of style. It is a pure design of such beauty that there will always be a place for it in our design world. What will change are the ways in which the design is deployed.

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What colours go with Leopard Print?

Look on Pinterest and you’ll see leopard print paired with all the colours of the rainbow, including red. It’s a strong eye-catching pattern and it stands out best against a plain canvas, so avoid too many colours and too many patterns.

Can you wear Leopard Print with red?

Conventional wisdom says that the combination of leopard print and red looks ‘cheap' yet there are many celebrities and fashionistas who disregard this. In particular, a slick of red lipstick is often used in conjunction with leopard print.In the end it comes down to a matter of personal taste, besides which, ‘cheap’ might be just the look you are after!

Can you wear Leopard Print with stripes?

Maybe you hate clashing prints but there are plenty of people out there who love them and will happily pair a stripy top with a leopard print jacket.

Leopard Print with floral

Are there any fashion rules left to break? It may seem like a print too far but there are plenty of celebs out there who are mixing swathes of floral with a splash of leopard print.

When to wear Leopard Print:

Can you wear Leopard Print all year round?

Leopard print loves bright colours, so it’s a great choice for Spring and Summer but when else are you going to wear that sumptuous full-length leopard print coat other than in Autumn or Winter. Leopard is a print for all seasons.

Can you wear Leopard Print on safari?

One of the inescapable cultural messages encoded in leopard print is that of colonial appropriation, its popularity with a western audience originating in the splayed animal skins which adorned the drawing rooms of yesteryear’s big game hunters. In the light of that dubious cultural heritage it might seem a little awkward to wear the print on safari, even though your big game bagging will be confined to hi res shots through a camera lens. That said, we live in an age of post modern irony, so a leopard print bandana is unlikely to offend and is a playful acknowledgement of how times have changed.

Can you wear Leopard Print to a christening?

There’s nothing irreligious or disrespectful about leopard print, but remember, the star of the show is the infant in arms so perhaps you should rein in your flamboyance.

Can you wear Leopard Print to a funeral?

Leopard print is playful, sexy and a bit naughty, therefore it is not an appropriate choice for a funeral, unless, as is sometimes the case, the deceased has requested that mourners wear bright colours.

Can you wear Leopard Print to a wedding?

It’s fun, it’s life affirming: leopard print and weddings are a perfect marriage.

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Can you wear Leopard Print to an interview?

At interview we present ourselves in a way which we hope will appeal to our prospective employers: we choose our language with care and we choose our clothing with care. Whether or not you choose to wear leopard print to an interview will depend on the kind of image you wish to project. So, if you want to suggest that you are creative, independent and confident, judicious use of leopard print might just do the trick. If, on the other hand, you want a serious, no nonsense image, you’re probably better off with conventional interview attire.

Can you wear Leopard Print to work?

Leopard print is inherently playful so there are some contexts where its connotations may be inappropriate or unhelpful, such as the classroom perhaps, but for work which foregrounds creativity and social interaction, it’s perfect.

Leopard Print for the over 50’s

It is no longer compulsory for human beings to dress like grandparents from a fairy tale once they hit fifty. The world is full of glamorous over fifties, so enjoy your leopard print with a clear conscience.

All You Need to Know About the Leopard Print Trend (2024)

FAQs

What's the deal with leopard print? ›

Leopard Print is a print which imitates the markings of a leopard's skin. In the case of faux fur, it is used to replicate the appearance of real leopard skin, but it is also used in combination with a wide range of colours as a print for clothing, fashion accessories and interior design.

Is leopard print out of style 2023? ›

Chevron, plaid, florals, artsy, animal prints, check, gingham – these are just some of the most fashionable prints in fashion for fall 22/23. Leopard print is one of the most trendy prints, or at least as fashionable as marble and checkboard print.

What does liking leopard print say about you? ›

More often than not, leopard people have had their fair share of struggles (perhaps a smidge more) and are working to regain their balance and direction in life. You have a great host of innate talents available to you – you're intuitive, artistically inclined, and, perhaps, spiritual with a fondness for mysticism.

Why is leopard print so popular? ›

They're impossible to domesticate.

People who wear leopard told me they feel beautiful, they feel strong, they feel powerful, they feel sexy.” Animal print has always been a bit controversial. It's a statement. We have seen it worn by royalty and go from high-fashion to low-class over and over again.

What kind of woman wears leopard print? ›

In his 1954 manual, The Little Dictionary of Fashion, Christian Dior famously wrote that “to wear leopard you must have a kind of femininity which is a little bit sophisticated. If you are fair and sweet, don't wear it.” And so the connotations have always been that it's sexy, a bit raunchy, a bit daring, a bit wild.

Is it OK to wear leopard print? ›

Indeed, the classic print has been given a serious rebranding, and it's considered a totally accessible aesthetic. It's perfectly normal to see people walking down the street in a leopard skirt, dress or jeans, as it can be what you want it to be: elegant, grown-up, eccentric…

Does leopard print look cheap? ›

It's the first big trend of A/W 18, but it's also one of those trends that can look cheap. There's no getting around it: Some leopard prints look expensive and some look trashy, and often that has nothing to do with the price point.

Does leopard print go with everything? ›

Other animal prints come and go, but leopard print remains unmatched. Perhaps it's the fact it goes with everything (even other prints - think Dolce & Gabbana), or that despite its bold appearance it can still be used in an elegant manner, but leopard print is timeless and loved by many.

Is leopard print feminine? ›

It is well known that leopard print is often regarded as a female print, rarely worn by men. It is for this very reason that for men wearing the print, it creates a sense of rebellion and non-conformity. In the 60s, leopard print was considered more trashy and low class due to its connection with being a trophy wife.

Why is leopard print sexualised? ›

Due to its associations with hyper-femininity and female sexuality, leopard print has been employed by Drag Queens specifically, as they seek to parody mainstream understandings of the feminine.

What Does a leopard symbolize? ›

Leopard Symbolism and Meaning

In some cultures, leopards are a sign of royalty, while in others, they're considered to be bringers of death and destruction. In most cases, however, leopards symbolize strength, power, courage, and determination.

What is the symbolism behind animal print? ›

It has been a staple in fashion since the early 1930s. However, before it became a fashion statement, it was a sign of power. Kings and Queens owned animal print rugs as a way to show social status, and hunters believed that the animal prints gave them the power of that animal.

What is unique about leopard? ›

Of the large cats, leopards are the most arboreal; they have long tails to help them to balance on narrow tree branches. Unlike most cats, leopards are strong swimmers and are one of the few cats that like water, although they are not as aquatic as tigers.

Is leopard print unprofessional? ›

Whether you're a leopard print girl or more of a snakeskin lady, animal prints can be integrated into your work wardrobe if done well. Plus, they are so versatile, and the trend is such a perennial classic that animal prints are essentially almost considered a neutral print—one that still can be a bit bold.

Who made leopard print famous? ›

1940's: The model Bettie Page, created an uproar in the fashion world when she dressed in a leopard mini dress. Wearing leopard print gave women a sense of power during this era known for the early stages of the women's movement.

What color shirt goes with leopard print? ›

Whatever your choice of leopard print, whether it's bright blue or a classic natural tone, you can't go wrong with neutrally toned pieces. Think cream, tan, black and white, as these colours will always complement your print and let it take centre stage.

Is leopard print timeless? ›

Well... the answer is a big YES. Leopard print is a timeless fashion print that lasts season after season. From classic-cut dresses to coats or shoes, leopard print fabrics are used year after year to bring a touch of animal print into our wardrobe.

How do you wear leopard print without looking trashy? ›

Take a look at the tips that we have below.
  1. Pair it with denim cutoffs.
  2. For work, wear leopard printed footwear.
  3. Pair them with neutral accessories.
  4. Mix it with other prints.
  5. Use it as a tiny accent.
Sep 15, 2016

Is it tacky to wear leopard print to a wedding? ›

Just say no to the leopard, zebra, and giraffe print. (Seriously, I've seen it.) I'm not saying you need to dress as Plain Jane, but in-your-face animal prints are likely to draw attention to you, meaning you're taking attention away from the bride.

What not to wear with animal print? ›

DON'T wear chunky/flashy jewelry with animal prints

Any outfit requires only one statement piece. Generally, the animal-print piece is what's making your statement — so you don't need to add crazy accessories to the mix, too.

Does leopard print make you look slimmer? ›

Animal prints won't make you appear any larger or smaller, but they will definitely make a statement. What is this? When I wear animal prints, I feel fun and super sexy. My favorite animal print to incorporate into my wardrobe is leopard print.

Can you wear black with leopard print? ›

Most animal prints have at least some black in them, so you know they'll match, and an all-black ensemble is pretty much a no-fail way to look chic and put-together with minimum effort.

What colors can you wear with leopard print shoes? ›

Light neutral colors are also known to complement leopard. We're talking taupe, beige, blush pink, off-white, cream, white, pale gray, and pewter. These colors can be worn on their own or with black, brown, or tan pieces.

Can you wear leopard print in winter? ›

Animal Prints

Leopard is a versatile print that can successfully be worn in the dead of summer and during the cold winter months.

What is the difference between leopard print and jaguar print? ›

Like the leopard the pattern on it's fur consists of rosettes, a dark circle with a brown center, on a sandy coloured base. But unlike the leopard, the jaguars rosettes can have an extra dark brown spot in the centre of the rosette, something the leopard never has.

Who is famous for wearing leopard print? ›

The print that never goes out of style: leopard. Bella Hadid, Kaia Gerber, Miley Cyrus, Fergie and more celebs are rocking their fiercest spotted fashions making it the 'it' trend of the moment. From coats to miniskirts see how these stars are styling this timeless print.

Is there a difference between cheetah print and leopard print? ›

A cheetah's coat is tan – usually a few shades cooler than a leopard's – with a constellation of uniform black spots. Leopard's spots, as you now know, are black with a brown center, whereas the cheetah's are solid black. Cheetah is the more minimal of the two patterns.

What is the history of leopard print? ›

Christian Dior is credited with creating the first leopard print fabrics for his 1947 collection, the two dresses that featured it called "Jungle" and "Afrique." In his Little Dictionary of Fashion Christian Dior cautioned: “But to wear leopard you must have a kind of femininity which is a little bit sophisticated.

Is leopard print cheugy? ›

After being a staple every ten years or so, cheetah and leopard print (yes, there is a difference), as well as zebra and cow (which I will get to later), is no longer considered cheugy (in moderation that is). Defined, cheugy is something that is considered uncool or out of style from specifically the 2010s.

What is the spiritual meaning of leopard print cloth? ›

Leopard cloth: Symbolise all that is noble, courageous &honourable. Ingwe/Nkwe originally meant pure sovereignty or pure kingship. It is believed that it was brought by the gods 2protect the Earth &all living things against destructive demonic entities.

What is the saying about leopard? ›

If you say that a leopard cannot change its spots, you mean that people or things are not able to change their basic characteristics, especially when you are critical of those characteristics.

Where did the animal print trend come from? ›

The introduction of animal patterns that adorned clothes to the fashion scene in the 1930s, in a sense, gained momentum with the influence of Hollywood. The animal-patterned clothes worn by the characters of Jane and Tarzan in the 1932 film Tarzan the Apeman attracted the attention of the audience.

What is the most popular animal print? ›

The most popular animal prints are leopard, zebra, cheetah and tiger, although snakeskin print has topped the style list as well.

What is the Behaviour of a leopard? ›

Leopards are solitary creatures that only spend time with others when they are mating or raising young. They are also nocturnal and spend their nights hunting instead of sleeping. Leopards spend a lot of their time in trees. Their spotted coat camouflages them, making them blend in with the leaves of the tree.

What are 5 interesting facts about leopard? ›

Interesting Facts About Leopards
  • Leopards are Strong Predators. ...
  • Leopards are Fast. ...
  • Leopards are Secretive and like Solitude. ...
  • Leopards are good at Camouflage. ...
  • A Leopard's Tail is used for Balance. ...
  • The Leopard is a Major Carnivore. ...
  • Leopards are Cats of the Night. ...
  • Female Leopards like to tease Males for Mating.
Aug 29, 2019

What are the three types of leopard? ›

In India, There are four types of leopards found, named as Indian leopard, snow leopard, clouded leopard and black panther. 1.

What is the most popular leopard? ›

There are seven different sub-species of leopard that differ in their appearance and geographic location, with the African leopard being the most common and widespread.

Is it OK to wear leopard print to an interview? ›

Even if you're wearing a semi-formal suit, keep the shirt or top subtle and don't venture into any prints, especially animal prints. Farina shares, “Always prefer solid colors for formal and semi-formal environments, color can be added in creative and fashion, where prints are usually considered acceptable.

What does cheetah print symbolize? ›

Meaning of Cheetah Print Tattoo Designs

There are many different meanings for the cheetah tattoo, but the general meaning is linked to power, strength and speed. The cheetah meaning is also linked to survival and protection.

What does leopard symbolize? ›

Leopard Symbolism and Meaning

In some cultures, leopards are a sign of royalty, while in others, they're considered to be bringers of death and destruction. In most cases, however, leopards symbolize strength, power, courage, and determination.

Is leopard print inappropriate for work? ›

Whether you're a leopard print girl or more of a snakeskin lady, animal prints can be integrated into your work wardrobe if done well. Plus, they are so versatile, and the trend is such a perennial classic that animal prints are essentially almost considered a neutral print—one that still can be a bit bold.

What is the personality of leopard? ›

Leopards are very solitary and spend most of their time alone. They each have their own territory, and leave scratches on trees, urine scent marks and poop to warn other leopards to stay away! Males and females will cross territories, but only to mate.

What is leopard syndrome? ›

Multiple lentigines syndrome; LEOPARD syndrome; NSML. Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines (NSML) is a very rare inherited disorder. People with this condition have problems with the skin, head and face, inner ear, and heart. The genitals may also be affected.

What is the print on a leopard called? ›

The Leopard or Panther - Panthera pardus - lives on the African and Asian continent. The pattern consists of small, densely packed rosettes. These rosettes are made of a dark circle with a warm brown colored center, on a light brown base.

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