I come from the school of thought that leopard is a neutral. It pairs with every color, can carry and entire look or is a perfect accent piece. Now, I absolutely understand that not everyone feels this way. It can often be seen as a go-to for tacky-themed Halloween costume. I never let this get me down. I love it and I own it and I own a lot of it.
I have just about every variation of leopard you can imagine: pants, dresses, tops, scarves, bags, jackets, shoes, etc. If you can wear it, I probably have one in leopard.
This week, I needed to step up my “fierce” mentality and this was the perfect way to do it. This print is perfect when you want to make a statement of confidence, but want to wear something that isn’t too “out there”.
Today’s lesson is to pair it with black. If you’re wanting to find more ways to wear leopard or want to invest in more of these pieces, black complimentary items will ensure the look stays grounded.
This leopard jumpsuit – from the target clearance rack – is a LOT when worn by itself. Add a black blazer and some neutral pumps and this could easily pass for a great Friday at the office outfit or a dinner date look.
Similar Jumpsuits can be found here: Asos $26, IVRose $30, SelfieLeslie $76
This is an easy one. A leopard scarf goes with any color. I especially love to pair them with bright-colored coats to add some additional texture. You’d be amazed at how leopard can actually TONE DOWN a brightly colored look.
Leopard Scarves here: Walmart $12, Amazon $13
If you don’t have leopard shoes in your closet, HOW ARE YOU EVEN LIVING?! If you put an outfit together with all solid colors this is when a patterned shoe can elevate a look. Here are a few of my favorites: Old Navy $20, Target $25
I have been obsessed with these leopard joggers since the moment I laid eyes on them. I’ve dressed them up with a gauzy black button down shirt and heels and dressed them down as you see here. A perfect travel item and always brings a million compliments. This pair is Zara from a while back, but here are a few similar options. Labeye $48, Amazon $18
The key to a great leopard item is to make sure the print doesn’t feel oversized or cartoon-like. Too-big spots can come across feeling “cheap” and for a pattern that is already perceived from some of the population as tacky, you want to be cautious.
This top is a great example of more two dimensional interpretation of leopard. The high-low is dramatic, so I kept the bottom-half simple. Faux Leather leggings and black pumps help put an exclamation point on this edgy outfit without being too far out in left field.
Here are a few leopard tops to add to your wardrobe. Venus $44, Amazon $17, Amazon $20 (plus sizes!)
Moral of the story…..
Can you be more dramatic with your leopard outfits than I was? ABSOLUTELY. I hope this week’s article reminds you, though, that leopard can work with just about any item in your wardrobe. Have fun with it and remember… Leopard is a neutral!
Leave a Reply