The dos and don’ts of wearing animal prints

Animal prints have been a fashion staple for decades, and they show no signs of going out of style anytime soon. From leopard spots to zebra stripes, animal prints can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit. However, wearing animal prints can be a bit tricky. When done right, they can make a bold and fashionable statement, but when done wrong, they can easily look tacky and tasteless. To help you navigate the world of animal prints, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when incorporating them into your wardrobe.

Dos:

1. Start small: If you’re new to wearing animal prints, it’s best to start small and incorporate them into your outfit subtly. For example, you could add a touch of leopard print with a pair of shoes or a belt, or opt for a sleek animal print handbag. This way, you can experiment with the trend without going overboard.

2. Mix and match: Animal prints are surprisingly versatile and can be mixed and matched with a variety of other patterns and textures. For a chic and modern look, try pairing a leopard print blouse with a plaid skirt or a zebra print jacket with a floral dress. Just make sure to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple to let the animal print piece shine.

3. Choose high-quality fabrics: When it comes to animal prints, quality is key. Opt for pieces made from high-quality fabrics like silk, chiffon, or satin, as they will look more luxurious and sophisticated than cheaper alternatives. Additionally, well-made animal print pieces are more likely to stand the test of time and look more expensive.

4. Stick to neutral colors: Neutral animal prints like leopard, zebra, and snakeskin are classics for a reason—they are timeless and versatile. Stick to these neutral colors when adding animal prints to your wardrobe, as they are easier to style and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

5. Keep accessories minimal: When wearing animal prints, it’s best to keep your accessories minimal and let the print be the focal point of your outfit. Opt for simple jewelry, classic shoes, and a neutral handbag to complement your animal print piece without overwhelming it.

Don’ts:

1. Mix too many prints: While mixing and matching prints can create a bold and stylish look, it’s important not to go overboard when wearing animal prints. Avoid mixing more than two prints in one outfit, as this can look busy and messy. Instead, stick to one animal print piece and keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple.

2. Wear head-to-toe animal print: Wearing head-to-toe animal print is a major fashion faux pas and should be avoided at all costs. Not only does it look tacky and overwhelming, but it also detracts from the stylish nature of the print itself. Instead, opt for one statement animal print piece and pair it with classic, neutral pieces to balance out the look.

3. Choose overly flashy prints: When it comes to animal prints, less is often more. Avoid choosing overly flashy or garish prints, as these can look cheap and tacky. Instead, opt for classic, understated prints in neutral colors like black, brown, or gray for a sophisticated and timeless look.

4. Forget to tailor your pieces: Proper fit is crucial when wearing animal prints, as ill-fitting pieces can look sloppy and unflattering. Make sure to tailor your animal print pieces to fit your body shape perfectly, whether that means taking in the waist of a leopard print dress or hemming the length of a zebra print skirt. This simple step can elevate your look and make you feel more confident in your outfit.

5. Overdo it: Lastly, it’s important not to overdo it when wearing animal prints. While they can add a bold and stylish touch to your outfit, wearing too much animal print can look overwhelming and unrefined. Instead, opt for one statement piece and keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple to create a chic and sophisticated look.

In conclusion, animal prints are a fun and stylish way to add a touch of glamour to your outfit. By following these dos and don’ts, you can confidently incorporate animal prints into your wardrobe and create fashionable and on-trend looks that are sure to turn heads. Just remember to keep it simple, keep it classy, and most importantly, have fun with your fashion choices!