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Leopard print is back – but did it really go anywhere? We’ve talked about it being a dominant trend on the the autumn/winter 2024 runways, but it’s become clear that it’ll soon be everywhere on the streets as well. But, similarly to how black is the colour we won’t ever turn our backs on (although brown is certainly giving it a run for its money this autumn) leopard print has never really left the confines of our closet.
Leopard print has been on the fashion scene for decades, with everyone from Saint Laurent to Spice Girls icon Mel B relying on the pattern on several occasions throughout the years. Other animal prints come and go, but leopard print remains unmatched. Perhaps it’s the fact it goes with everything (even other prints – think Dolce & Gabbana), or that despite its bold appearance it can still be used in an elegant manner, but leopard print is timeless and loved by many. It’s just another neutral, really.
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 12: Rihanna is seen leaving The Nice Guy on April 12, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by The Hollywood Curtain/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)The Hollywood Curtain/Bauer-Griffin
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 12: Ashley Graham is seen walking in midtown on August 12, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)Raymond Hall
In recent months it has seen a surge of appreciation thanks to the likes of Rihanna, who stepped out in a delicious shearling-lined coat and mini skirt a few months ago – her fierce, feline look immediately making headlines. Just the other day, Ashley Graham was papped in a figure-hugging leopard dress in the concrete jungle (had to) of NYC, plus tonnes of our favourite influencers, who all show off their own unique style with the print by wearing it in distinct ways.
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 08: A guest wears animal print pants, animal print jacket and animal print bag outside the Gestuz show during day four of the Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) SS25 on August 08, 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images)Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 05: A guest wears red turtleneck top, red hair tie or scrunchy, animal print mini skirt and jacket, red bag, black socks and red shoes outside the Rolf Ekroth show during the Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) SS25 on August 05, 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images)Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 07: A guest wears animal print dress, black bag outside Baum & Pferdgarten during day three of the Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) SS25 on August 07, 2024 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images)Christian Vierig/Getty Images
But how to make leopard print work for your wardrobe this season in particular? Leopard has been given a vintage makeover on the runways, thanks to brands like Dior, Alaia and Rowen Rose. Think: mob wife aesthetic meets ‘60s Upper East Side housewife. This means luxe coats and wild accessories – if you dare. But if traipsing around the city looking like Elizabeth Taylor isn’t quite your vibe, opt for subtle incorporations like dainty flats or clutch.
Go on, take a walk on the wild side.
For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Fashion Editor Rosie Lai, follow her on Instagram @rosielai.