Animal Prints: Leopard Maxi

I'm like you, I hate it when I try to do a little research for style tips on how to wear something new and all that turns up are outfit photos.  I need information, not just how she wore it.  So, I thought I'd devote a little space in the blog today to talking about how to style animal prints.

Tip 1:  Animals are printed by God in neutral colors.  So, that's how they look their best, and guess what, you're not going to improve on it.  To that end, when it comes to choosing an animal print, stick to something in neutrals like black, white, gray, and brown.  When scientists discover a neon pink snake or a cerulean leopard, feel free to start wearing those colors in animal prints, til then, don't--just don't.

Tip 2:  Just because you shouldn't make a habit of wearing prints in color doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't accessorize with color.  For this leopard print maxi dress, I chose bright orange patent leather pumps and a coral lip color.  I'd avoid orange when it comes to black and white animal prints so you don't look like a traffic sign or a Halloween nightmare, but other bright hues look lovely with black& white animal prints like a bold pink or a cobalt blue.

Tip 3:  Jewelry, please.  Personally, I love chunky gold jewelry when it comes to accessorizing animal prints.  I avoid bangles and bags made from wood and straw because it starts to look a little too safari.  If that's your goal, then by all means carry on, but if you want city chic instead of jungle hunter, stick with metallics and perhaps a velvet hat or suede boots.

Tip 4:  The Cut Matters.  Before writing this post, I did a quick poll of friends and co-workers about animal prints.  I noticed that none of them ever wore animal prints and I was curious as to why.  The reasons varied but the most common response was either too risqué or too trashé.  

I definitely think that animal prints make a statement and it takes some confidence to wear them, but when it comes to risqué (or trashy as the case may be), the cut and style have far more to do with that than the print.  Choose a tasteful maxi (ala today's post) or a sophisticated blouse and the print will only enhance the overall look.

Tip 5:  You can always start small.  I think the best way to try something new is go really big or really small.  I've so enjoyed styling snake prints, that I wanted to try a leopard print, and so I looked around and this maxi dress is what really stole my heart, but it wasn't what I started out looking for.  

My first thought was to find some cute flats or basic pumps in a leopard print and pair them with a little black dress.  Starting with shoes, a belt, or scarf is an excellent way to test the waters on a new style trend without getting in over your head.  But, even if you try something bold and you don't love it, love the fact that you took a chance and tried something new.  Remember, fashion is supposed to be fun, not stressful, so do what works best for you. 

Shopping Info: V-neck Lantern Sleeve Leopard Bustier Dress Without Belt - $20.00

and similar Point Toe Slingback Stiletto Heels from: SHEIN