Charlie Gowans-eglinton The Passion Shopper
A grownup’s guide to leopard print
A statement, but not one I’d be embarrassed to wear to the supermarket
Leopard print gets a bad rap. I know why, of course – over the decades, it’s become a uniform for the immoral woman, the temptress, the provocatrice.
It’s Bettie Page in a leopard swimsuit, and
Dynasty-era Joan Collins. Which is, to some extent, why I like it so much. Why should “sexy” be a curse word? Few of us will ever don a leather bustier and thigh-highs (at least in public), but a leopard print coat? That’s just the right amount of femme fatale for me – a statement, but not one I’d be embarrassed to make at the supermarket.
The key to wearing animal print well is all in the silhouette – avoid mini skirts or dresses, as anything too short (or tight) veers into dodgy territory. A leopard coat will elevate an all-black outfit, or dress up jeans; H&M’S slightly metallic version is a great option for the party season. I invested in a spotted pony skin from Joseph a few years ago, and it’s my go-to for days when I want to be comfortable – it pretends at effort, when I haven’t made any.
Flowing silk skirts and dresses that fall just below the knee are both easy to wear: pair anything mid-calf or longer with black ankle boots, and anything shorter with a knee-high pair (and no gap showing). A leopard print blouse, tucked into black trousers or jeans, is also a good option, but personally I’d steer clear of leopard print trousers.
I’d also avoid leopard accessories as I think they look cheap unless they’ve got a good texture, which rules out most of what you’ll find on the high street – though if you’ve got a bigger budget, there are some lovely pony skin options. Otherwise, try a scarf: Rockins’ narrow silk would look stylish knotted at the neck with a black cashmere jumper, and Lily and Lionel’s larger versions will liven up a black winter coat. Of course, it’s not only black that you can wear with leopard print. Depending on the shade (brighter equals brassier: let “Bet Lynch” be your watchword), leopard print can act almost as a neutral in your wardrobe. Muted brown versions will work with denim, shades of burgundy, navy and khaki. Tuck Rixo’s pussy-bow blouse into a long army-green skirt, or layer Gestuz’s slinky skirt over a denim shirt or fine-knit camel polo neck. For something a little bolder, leopard print and yellow is a brilliant combination.
However you dress it up or down, though, leopard will never entirely lose its naughtiness – and thank goodness for that.