Fashion Craving: Leopard Print

Let’s have a chat about leopard print. Some ladies L-O-V-E it, others can’t stand it. We happen to be among the first group. As it turns out, we’re not alone. We’ve seen tons of fashionistas rocking faux leopard as of late. Even Jackie O. once wrapped up in a leopard-print coat, which makes this the superlative animal print in our book.

While we’re quite fond of the idea of confidently wearing a large, look-at-me-leopard-print piece (like the Chloé jacket above—to die for!), we understand that some prefer to opt for a more subtle pop of leopard print in an otherwise subdued ensemble. Either look will leave you feeling very feisty—and, might we add, very sex kittenish.

Belt: We envision this belt cinched at the natural waist over a super-feminine chiffon number. The antique buckle and animal print would lend a dash of tough, bad-girl feel to an otherwise frilly and sweet dress. Leopard Haircalf Belt, W. Kleinberg.

Purse: If the leopard print is the star of this handbag, then the oversized bow must be the captivating supporting actress. Whatever the setting—at the office with a black pencil skirt or around town with slouchy boyfriend jeans and your go-to “I’m just running errands” oversized cardigan—this purse has leading lady glamour written all over it. Beauville Tate Bag, Kate Spade.

Pumps: The leopard print! The pop of pink! The peep toe! And, oh, the sass! Is there anything not to love about these pumps? We think not. And we’re pretty darn certain that stylist to the stars Rachel Zoe would agree. After all, she’s the style maven who said, “I always love me a leopard.” We couldn’t agree more. Lakin Pumps, Betsey Johnson.

Coat: So, when it comes to coats and big-ticket wardrobe items of a similar ilk, there are splurges and then there are investments. (We typically use the latter term to describe articles of clothing that cost more than one month’s rent plus groceries, but are without a doubt worth going hungry/maxing out a credit card/suffering through a dire case of sticker shock.) This Chloé leopard-print coat certainly falls into the investment piece category. But the tailoring is impeccable and it just breathes with Jackie O. charm. Sigh. We’re smitten. Chloé Leopard-Print Coat, Nordstrom.