Scared of wearing animal prints? Don’t be! Even though they typically make a statement, they’re also fun and stylish when worn properly. And, don’t worry, creating outfits with animal prints just requires a few, easy steps.
Five tips for styling with animal prints
Walking around town in leopard-patterned pants takes confidence, but there are other ways to incorporate your favorite animal print:
1. Use it as an accent
The rest of your outfit can be relatively simple, but throw in a tiny hint of animal print and your look goes from casual to cool in an instant. I like to wear everything from eveningwear to pajamas using this same basic principle. The animal print piece can be just about anything: your bottoms, your tops, your shoes, whatever. As long as it works as a subtle accent, you’ve successfully cracked the code.
2. Pair it with bold colors
Most animal prints look amazing next to bright, bold colors like red, orange, yellow, or pink. The juxtaposition of bold colors with natural prints makes for an appealing, interesting outfit. Keep in mind, though, that animal prints can vary in colors; make sure everything complements one another.
3. Go abstract
Abstract animal prints are some of my favorite patterns. Traditional designs are redefined and repositioned for a unique, modern look that can be easily dressed up or down. They also have a geometric feel that instantly turns your outfit into a work of art.
Tip: Abstract animal prints almost always look better on larger pieces of your outfit because the details are hard to distinguish otherwise.
4. Break up solid pieces
Pair animal prints with wardrobe basics to make the most of what you have in your closet while showcasing your personality. For example, combine that little black dress with a pair of leopard print heels or a zebra print handbag. Or, wear a cheetah-print skirt with comfy tennis shoes and a white tee.
5. Choose the right pieces
The cut of your clothes matters just as much as the print, so choose patterns and pieces that are flattering to your body type. Much like stripes and polka dots, wearing animal prints in a “problem area” can bring unwanted attention.
Instead, try pairing a form-fitting animal print piece with a looser-fitting basic. In the outfit above, for example, I wore a cheetah-print skirt with a looser red sweater. But feel free to play around! The right combination will be different for every person.
Three things to avoid when wearing animal prints
See? Styling with animal prints is easier than it looks. And while it’s tempting to incorporate these patterns into your everyday wardrobe (I encourage it!), there are certain combinations to avoid.
1. Mixing patterns
Wearing more than one patterned piece is a big mistake, especially if they don’t match or coordinate with the rest of your outfit. Instead, pair one patterned item with a tasteful solid.
2. Overdoing it
Avoid wearing all animal print all the time. Instead of wearing cheetah print head to toe, incorporate it into one piece for maximum effect.
3. Forgetting about the material
When buying animal print items, keep in mind what they’re made of. Choose quality, breathable fabrics that will stay in your closet for years.
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What’s your favorite way to wear animal print? Let me know in the comments!
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