"Some would argue that leopard print has never been laid to rest. But over the past few years—more specifically, with the rise of minimalistic quiet luxury—the print took a backseat in exchange for more subtle basics. And after the great silk midi skirt movement of 2019 (you know the one), I think we can all agree the break was much needed. Regardless of if you treat leopard as a neutral or avoid it like the plague, it’s undeniable that leopard is officially back.
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Though leopard remains somewhat divisive (thanks, Snooki), consumers ought not to forget the animal print’s iconic history. Dior first introduced the print in the early 1920s, and it’s since been seen on a range of starlets from Spice Girls’ Mel B to First Lady Jackie O. Whether you equate the spotted print with rock-and-roll, old Hollywood, or just as the nostalgic closet obsession of your late teens, leopard is an undeniable chameleon with the ability to serve both as a minimalist’s neutral base or a maximalist’s main attraction.
While many aren’t exactly finished with classic, minimalist-inspired dressing, fall 2024’s runways signaled a return of individuality—and with that comes some serious big cat energy. Just about every brand you can think of is releasing loads of leopard-bearing pieces, from over-the-shoulder bags to spotted jeans.
For better or worse, leopard print is here to stay. No matter which side of the leopard-loving spectrum you find yourself on, there are countless ways to incorporate leopard into your fall wardrobe. If you’re ready to dive head-first back into the trend, here are seven versatile ways to style it this fall, plus some of the leopard pieces I have my eye on.
Not-So-Basic Outerwear
My best purchase of 2023 was, hands down, a leopard print wool coat. In years past, getting dressed for colder temps meant that I sometimes felt like I had lost my sense of style. I’d put on a great outfit, and then in one quick motion, would ruin it with my go-to basic black coat. Whether you style a leopard coat with a statement-worthy ensemble or with a jeans-and-a-tee combo, come fall, a spotted layer is one of the chicest wardrobe choices you can make.
Spotted Accents
Not ready to take the leopard leap just yet? Try swapping your neutral accessories for leopard printed accents. For those of us who rely heavily on colorful accessories in the summer, it can feel quite jarring to make the sudden switch to a darker colored bag in the fall. Lucky for us, leopard sticks with the fall-inspired color scheme while still allowing for an ample amount of added personality.
Not Your Average Mini
Though I’ll likely never return to wearing a cheetah print midi skirt (yes, I too fell prey to the trending 2019 version), I’m hedging strong bets that I’ll soon be replacing my classic black mini for a leopard mini or maxi. And with loafers and socks? Where do I sign?
Wild Combos
Embrace your feline energy and make a statement with larger-than-life silhouettes and out-of-the-box color combos. While a cheetah is usually hard to spot, you’ll have an outfit that screams “I want to be seen.”
Over-The-Top Tops
We’ve probably all seen the famous tie-front, puffed-sleeve leopard print tops from brands like Damson Madder and Ganni, but what I’m really looking forward to for fall is the inclusion of cheetah-themed spots in more classic silhouettes. Since—to me at least—leopard is a neutral, I’d be remiss not to give my standard long-sleeves and turtlenecks a spotted update.
Minimalist Pairings
Quiet luxury still your thing? Choose a classic, neutral wardrobe staple to replace with a leopard print version. Keep your accessories to a minimum, and add a pop of color if you so choose to further your walk on the wild side.
Denim Alternatives
Up the ante this fall by swapping your favorite jeans for a pair of spotted denim. Be prepared to spend less time on your outfit (because the pants will do all of the styling work for you), and more time accepting compliments. Oh, and take a pared-back approach with the accessories; it’ll look more effortless and chic.
Shop Fall 2024’s Best Leopard Pieces
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.