Leopard print has been one of my favorite wardrobe staples for as long as I can remember. It started with a pair of leopard print Rebecca Minkoff skinnies, then it was a cheetah print clutch from Jimmy Choo…and lets just say the collection has exponentially grown from there. While it may seem that this print is not for the faint of heart, leopard print is surprisingly neutral. In fact, Glamour Magazine referred to leopard print as a ‘fashion classic’ in this years September issue, and ranked it just below the LBD, pretty serious right?

For starters, its just fierce. Big cats are pretty much at the top of the food chain, and so wearing it gives a girl the extra boost of confidence she needs to conquer her world. Secondly, many an it girl have rocked this trend solidifying it in fashion history as an iconic DO. From Jackie-O in the 1960’s to Kate Moss in the 2012 Spring/Summer Supreme Campaign shot by Terry Richardson, this print has earned some major street cred!

With that being said, not all leopard prints were created equal so here are some tips to help you navigate this jungle without looking like you are an extra on the Flintstones.

Use it Sparingly: Think of leopard as your ‘pop of color’ or ‘statement piece’ and avoid the urge to wear all of your leopard print pieces at once lest someone confuses you for a zoo animal on the loose.

Safari Style: Leopard goes great with other neutrals like white and black, but also try branching out and rock it with fun colors like khaki or olive green for a fund nod to the outback.

Dip Your Toes: Accessories are a great way to try the trend with out going full blown on this look! Like my Jimmy Choo clutch, or the fab tiger’s eye bracelets I am rocking in this post from Mint by Noel, there are so many fun ways to incorporate this print into your wardrobe.

What are some of your favorite ways to take a walk on the wild side?!

Stay Stylish,
XXJ

Leopard Print Coat (Vintage Score — Similar here)
Black Legging (Forever 21)
Heels (Sam Edelman)
Bracelets (Mint by Noel — use the code CHIC20 for 20% off)
Handbag (Marc Jacobs)

{All photography by Henry Young}