Confessions of a Cheetah-holic: PART TWO

Tips on how to spot, (if you'll pardon the expression), fashionable leopard print...and how to avoid leopard print disasters.

Leopard print is frequently touted in fashion magazines- as THE latest and hottest fashion trend.  If you ever wondered why, it's because it is beloved by: designers, stylists, celebs and fashionistas alike. We keep buying it! Therefore, it never really "goes out of style".  And it's a good thing too, otherwise my wardrobe would be in serious trouble!

So, for the uninitiated, how does one go about rocking the leopard print in a chic, fashionable way?


1- The more realistic looking the print- the better!
Regardless of the fabrication, be it chiffon, faux fur, or silk--the more authentic looking the print is-- the more luxurious and chic your ensemble will be.

Panthera pardus (photo credit: animaldiscovery.com)

2-Watch out for tacky leopard print! If a leopard print is a vibrant color intentionally- such as hot pink- it can look chic on the right person with the right outfit. But if you would prefer a classier, timeless look opt for the natural-colored versions: grey, beige, tan or buff. If it is bright yellow, or bright orange- put it down, and walk away.

The natural coloring, painterly brush-strokes and size of spots make this a flattering leopard print choice.

3-Keep an eye on the size! Generally speaking, smaller prints are universally flattering. While larger prints tend to make everyone look, well, larger. The same rule applies to leopard prints.

4-Less is more! For some, all-over leopard print can be a bit intimidating, or just a little too much.  In that case- opt for accessories!  If that floor-length gown looks great on the hanger, but less-than-awesome on you--go for the clutch, shoes, or belt!  You will still get to join the fun, and you will get more use out of it too.

Christian Louboutin

When in doubt, turn to designers who know leopard print and regularly show-case it in their collections: Roberto Cavalli, L.A.M.B., Prada, and Betsey Johnson --just to name a few.

 Last but not least, take fashion cues from celebs who always look flawless, and frequently rock leopard print from their wardrobe-- such as Dita Von Teese and Gwen Stefani.

Dita Von Teese

Gwen Stefani wearing L.A.M.B.

I Hope you are inspired, and if you haven't tried leopard print before-- I heartily encourage you too!  Leopard print is a classic and it knows no age: from babies to grandmas-- it looks fabulous on everyone!