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!

What's In My Bag:

Supposedly, what a woman (or man for that matter) totes around with them with religious fervor, and deems "a necessity" is rather telling...

So I'm dishing the dirt--or the goodies, rather.
A few of my very recent purchases, that I'm taking with me everywhere.
Why? Because I'm convinced they make my life BETTER.

Adhesive Eyelashes/drugstores- a recent must-have for date nights, or bartending nights. I bat them to plead my innocence, and to get more tips. I believe it works on both counts.

Chakra Spray/Aveda- This one is for "grounding". And lately, I need all the grounding I can get. ( I also bought Shampure room spray- just because).

Yogi Cold Season Tea/Whole Foods- It touts warming herbs of Ayurveda: ginger, cinnamon, and clove. I tout that it makes me feel better, when I feel a cold coming on!

L'Occitane/Lip Balm & Hand Cream- Both are must-haves when it comes to fighting off chapped lips & dry hands from the winter cold. Based on the 35 degree weather we had today, I'm already singing the praises of both these babies.

Charm Necklace-Betsey Johnson/Zappos- I little luck to carry around with me, as well as a darling accessory. I've "made it work" with three different colored sweaters already this week...

Revlon-Just Bitten Lip Stain/drugstores- I just bought these in 4 colors, I'm not kidding. Get subtle color "stained" on your lips with out the mucky-muck of lipstick or sticky gloss. Bonus! A moisturizing balm on the other end. I'm in love.

What are your current "must-haves"?

What to Wear Guide- Fall/ Winter 2011: THE TUXEDO

Fashion Trend To Try:

"The Tuxedo"

 The Tuxedo inspired trend comes back in full force for a two reasons: it's sexy and it's classic.  Borrowing the tailored look from Men's dressing can make a women feel quite daring and surprisingly feminine.

Left to Right: Dolce & Gabanna, Salvatore Ferragamo, The Row (Fall 2011)

Take inspiration from the following designers: Dolce & Gabanna, and Salvatore Ferragamo by looking for silhouettes that are nipped in the waist and flattering (Note: If you feel like Marlene Deitrich it's working, if you feel like a penguin- you should skip it.) 

Marlene Deitrich

Avoid all-over velvet( It can make you look heavier than you really are) and any jacket that is over-sized or too boxy- these shapes won't do your figure any favors.

Credit: Express Blazer Fall 2011

For a subtle nod to this important trend, try a slighly tuxedo-looking, inspired blazer with perhaps a  velvet or satin lapel over a party dress.