The easiest way to add attitude and a little dose of “Yes, I’m rolling in cash” is to pile on the animal prints. Perhaps it’s the Jackie Collins connotations, but leopard prints, snakeskin and zebra stripes have become a quick fix route to “Don’t mess with me, bitches” sex-appeal.
But rather than throwing on the 80s luxe look we’re used to seeing – you know, all big hair, bright red lippy, high heels and huge leopard print coat, or the rock chic look of pairing your animal prints with spike heels and skin tight black leather trousers, 2012 has given the wild look a new lease of life.
For inspiration, turn to Michael Kors, who really embraced the animal print trend this season. In his collection, there were over-the-shoulder bags with crocodile skin straps, there were feathered dresses, leopard print kaftans, cutaway python swimsuits and both tiger and zebra stripes. In fact, if it was halfway exotic, you found it in the collection.
Getting the look is easy; just imagine you’re going on an African Safari in the 1970s, in the most impractical gear you own. Think crisp white shirts, khaki jumpers paired with brown leather miniskirts, think delicate chiffons in bold designs and a whole lot of red python accessories. Punctuate the look with burnt orange and a hefty dose of tie-dye ( African village rather than Khao San Road), and you’re there. Easy, right?
Phillip Lim’s resort collection was similarly sophisticated in style; think leopard print blazers in muted tones and animal print used as a discreet trim.Henry Holland, London’s cheeky designer-about-town, also opted for animal prints as accentuation for the rest of the look; python collars, braces and shoe boots strutted down a leopard-printed runway.
In fact, this season it’s hard to go wrong with animal prints, provided you steer clear of the 80s barmaid look and dress as you imagine someone very, very rich might. Instead, channel Meryl Streep’s Out of Africastyle, or add a little attitude to your regular daytime look with a playful splash of a leopard print scarf or blazer, or a zebra print shoe.
The best part about the animal print look? There are only three golden rules to getting it right: 1. However much it cost, wear it like it cost more than a month’s rent (avoid gaudy accessories and ramp up the attitude) 2. Clash your prints carefully. If you’re feeling stylish, python print bags worn with a leopard print kaftan can look super cool. If you’re not feeling so stylish, they can make you look like you were dragged through a zoo backwards. 3. Go fake. Okay, so the designers might not fake it as much as we’d like, but with so many great faux options out there, there’s no need to wear our animal friends.
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