How to Wear Animal Print: A Wild Guide to Taming Your Inner Fashion Beast

Animal print has long been a symbol of boldness, confidence, and a touch of the untamed. Whether you’re a fashion novice or a seasoned style enthusiast, incorporating animal print into your wardrobe can be both exciting and intimidating. This guide will walk you through the art of wearing animal print, offering tips, tricks, and inspiration to help you unleash your wild side without going overboard.

1. Start Small: Dip Your Toes into the Wild

If you’re new to animal print, start with small accessories. A leopard-print scarf, zebra-striped handbag, or snake-skin belt can add a subtle touch of wildness to your outfit without overwhelming it. These pieces are versatile and can be paired with neutral tones like black, white, or beige to create a balanced look.

2. Mix and Match: The Art of Balancing Patterns

Animal print doesn’t have to stand alone. Experiment with mixing it with other patterns, such as stripes, florals, or geometric designs. The key is to keep the color palette cohesive. For example, pair a leopard-print skirt with a striped top in similar tones. This creates a harmonious yet dynamic outfit that showcases your fashion-forward thinking.

3. Go Monochrome: Let the Print Shine

Sometimes, less is more. Wearing animal print in a monochrome outfit allows the pattern to take center stage. A leopard-print dress in shades of brown or a zebra-print jumpsuit in black and white can make a powerful statement. Keep accessories minimal to let the print do the talking.

4. Layer It Up: Add Depth to Your Look

Layering is a great way to incorporate animal print into your outfit without it being too overwhelming. Try wearing a leopard-print blazer over a simple white tee and jeans, or layer a snake-print cardigan over a solid-colored dress. This adds texture and interest to your look while keeping it sophisticated.

5. Accessorize Wisely: The Devil is in the Details

Animal print accessories can elevate any outfit. Consider adding a pair of leopard-print heels, a zebra-print clutch, or a snake-skin watch to your ensemble. These small touches can make a big impact, especially when paired with more understated clothing.

6. Play with Textures: Mix Smooth and Rough

Animal print isn’t just about the pattern; it’s also about the texture. Pair a smooth leopard-print blouse with a rough denim jacket or a snake-skin skirt with a soft cashmere sweater. The contrast in textures adds depth and dimension to your outfit, making it more visually interesting.

7. Color Outside the Lines: Experiment with Unconventional Colors

While traditional animal prints come in natural tones like brown, black, and white, don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional colors. A pink leopard-print dress or a blue zebra-print coat can add a playful twist to your look. Just make sure the rest of your outfit complements the bold colors to avoid clashing.

8. Know Your Print: Choose the Right Animal for You

Not all animal prints are created equal. Leopard print is classic and versatile, zebra print is bold and graphic, and snake print is sleek and modern. Consider your personal style and the occasion when choosing which print to wear. For a formal event, a subtle snake-print dress might be more appropriate, while a casual outing could call for a fun zebra-print top.

9. Confidence is Key: Own Your Look

The most important tip for wearing animal print is to wear it with confidence. Animal print is bold and daring, so embrace it fully. Stand tall, smile, and let your outfit reflect your inner fierceness. Remember, fashion is about self-expression, so don’t be afraid to take risks and have fun with your style.

10. Sustainability Matters: Choose Ethical Options

As with any fashion choice, it’s important to consider the ethical implications. Opt for faux animal prints or vintage pieces to avoid contributing to the harm of real animals. Many brands now offer high-quality faux animal print options that look just as stylish as the real thing.

Q&A

Q: Can I wear animal print to the office? A: Absolutely! Opt for subtle animal print pieces like a blouse, pencil skirt, or blazer. Pair them with neutral tones and classic silhouettes to keep the look professional.

Q: How do I avoid looking too “costume-y” in animal print? A: Balance is key. Pair your animal print pieces with solid colors and simple accessories. Avoid overloading your outfit with too many prints or overly dramatic pieces.

Q: Can men wear animal print? A: Definitely! Animal print isn’t just for women. Men can incorporate it into their wardrobe through accessories like ties, pocket squares, or even shoes. A subtle animal print shirt or jacket can also make a stylish statement.

Q: What shoes go best with animal print outfits? A: Neutral-colored shoes like black, nude, or white are safe bets. For a bolder look, try matching your shoes to the dominant color in your animal print. For example, pair a leopard-print dress with brown heels.

Q: Is animal print still in style? A: Animal print is a timeless trend that comes and goes in waves. It’s currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity, making it a great time to experiment with this bold pattern.