WORDS BY AMELIA BELL
We get it. Animal print is divisive. It’s fashion marmite. For some, it conjures up images of Sophia Loren, Eartha Kitt and peak-era Naomi. For others, it’s an everlasting symbol of the provocatrice: Joan Collins circa 1980 or the kitsch, campy style of Scary Spice. But it also underscores the season’s freshest looks: Balenciaga’s leopard linings, Tom Ford’s red hot cheetah print and feline motifs, Givenchy’s printed separates. And, according to Google, it can also be one of the trickiest prints to style. So here’s four new ways to wear it for AW18.
The mash-up
Less predator, more city-slicker: the mix-and-match approach to pattern and print is having a moment. Take notes from the very literal cat walks at Ganni and Diane Von Furstenberg.
Shop the look: Ganni Jumper, Ganni Leopard Print Skirt, MM6 Maison Margiela Boots, Cult Gaia Bag
The retro redux
‘If you are fair and sweet, don’t wear it’ said Christian Dior after introducing leopard print during the New Look. Still today those prints are just as relevant as ever. How does the modern woman wear Christian Dior’s vintage? With tiny sunglasses and a boxy denim jacket.
Shop the look: Christian Dior Vintage Dress, Rejina Pyo Shirt, Y Project Denim Jacket, Prada Sunglasses
Trippy colour
Stella McCartney does irony well. The British designer is famously anti-fur, yet her collections are always full to brim with animal references. For AW18, that means a psychedelic take on leopard print.
Shop the look: Stella McCartney Jumper, Stella McCartney Skirt, Prada Sneakers, Danse Lente Shoulder Bag
Zebra print
Prepare for a healthy dose of zebra print - it emerged at designers as diverse as Manolo Blahnik, Isabel Marant Etoile and Dolce & Gabbana. It’s a rare print that can be either minimal or maximalist: will you look to Esteban Cortazar’s sleek sophistication or take a walk on the wild side with Halpern’s disco flares?
Shop the look: Esteban Cortazar Sweater, Calvin Klein Jeans, Manu Atelier Bag, Givenchy Earrings
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