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Florals, geometric shapes, watercolor, plaid, color blocking — you’ve mastered when and how to wear all these prints. But when it comes to leopard print, your style savvy totally escapes you. There’s a fine line between chic and kitschy with the brown spots, and that territory doesn’t always seem easy to navigate — but it really is. The key to pulling off the look-at-me print is moderation, sprinkling it into your outfit in ways that don’t overwhelm your entire look. Think of it instead as a sophisticated way to add texture and intrigue without showing any skin. From adding an ever-so-subtle kick to your workweek repertoire to infusing an off-duty ensemble with a hit of glamour, here are three outfits that prove leopard print is definitely a neutral.
How to Wear Leopard Print at the Office
Start by breaking away from boring boardroom basics by replacing your go-to button-down and jacket with a chambray topper and new-age blazer: They deliver the workweek polish you want without putting your style sensibilities to sleep. Skip the expected black trousers and opt for a pair of wintry white pants to create the ultimate backdrop for leopard print loafers (sensible shoes just got a whole lot more interesting!). For a sophisticated finishing touch, tack on a pair of icy drop earrings and a sleek, structured handbag.
Madewell The Orson Loafer ($168) + J.Crew Always Chambray Shirt ($78), COS Oversized V-Neckline Blazer ($225), Zara Seamed Trousers With Zips ($50), Need Supply Co. Croft Bag ($68), BaubleBar Icestorm Drops ($38), Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kôhl in Navy ($20), Rosebud Perfume Co. Menthol and Eucalyptus Lip Balm ($6)
How to Wear Leopard Print on a Night Out
Short and sleeveless reign supreme when it comes to night-out looks, but going the way of the leopard print body con dress you are not. Set yourself apart by embracing a less-is-more mentality and rock a wrist-grazing top in a bold leopard pattern layered under a fun and flirty mid-century frock. Chunky-heeled mules put a runway-ready twist on the getup, while colorful drop earrings and a shimmery crossbody sac ensure a party-ready edge. Before you run out the door, toss on a terry cloth coat in a warm shade of olive green for just a touch of the unexpected.
H&M Flared Blouse ($20) + Mango Corduroy Pinafore Dress ($60), Front Row Shop Kelly Green Terry Cloth Jacket ($94), ASOS Tall Order Mule Sandals ($58), & Other Stories Snake Embossed Chain Bag ($145), BaubleBar May Drops ($32), Bite Beauty Luminous Crème Lipstick ($24)
How to Wear Leopard Print on the Weekend
A faux fur coat — in leopard no less — isn’t exactly understated, but it takes on a laid-back persona when paired with weekend essentials like relaxed-fit jeans and long-sleeved tees. Zip-up platforms and a gilded collar necklace, both with don’t-mess attitude, bridge the gap between the casual and the chic for an outfit that’s fit for everything from coffee to unfussy dinner dates.
Mango Leopard Faux Fur Coat ($150) + COS Knitted Top With Contrast Panel ($99), Topshop Moto Dark Blue Mom Jeans ($70), & Other Stories Zip-Up Leather Platforms ($195), Warehouse Suede Leather Crossbody Bag ($50), Corres Madrid Rhomboid Gold Plated Choker ($142), Smith & Cult Nail Polish in Suburban Warrior ($18)
How do you work exotic prints into your wardrobe? Show us how you ace pattern play by tagging us in your #OOTDs on Instagram.
