As soon as the first autumnal chill is felt, all thoughts turn to checking out the autumn/winter fashion trends. It will be no surprise to find out that leopard print is on the list, as it seems to be every year!
Leopard print can of course look trashy, but if you turn to luxury designer fashion for inspiration, you can see how leopard print has been transformed from its Bet Lynch buxom barmaidiness (why is that word not in the English dictionary!) into something much more chic.
Here are my top tips for incorporating leopard print into your AW 13 wardrobe:
1. If you are brave enough to wear an all-over leopard print, avoid cheap, clingy or stretchy fabrics.
If you do choose a slinkier fabric, look for a stunning cut and detailing, such as the double statement front slits and keyhole back of this dress by L’agence.
2. Go for a coloured leopard print.
Leopard print doesn’t have to be brown. A coloured print is much more of-the-moment, and is a good way of escaping any Bet Lynch accusations.
3. Keep leopard print to accessories only.
A small amount of leopard print is enough to liven up an otherwise plain outfit. Try a small shoulder bag or a coloured leopard print clutch. These bags by Jérôme Dreyfuss and Phillip Lim are simply gorgeous, and are sure to inspire a number of high street copies.
4. Opt for a print that takes a postmodern approach to leopard print – playing with the design yet still keeping its vital elements.
This beautiful dress from Preen by Thornton Bregazzi is the perfect example of this approach.
Finally, as with all fashion trends, don’t take it too seriously! Luckily, as leopard print is a playful print in itself, it will add an element of fun to your wardrobe, however you choose to wear it.
All photos above are taken from the Avenue32 website.
