Lions, and Tigers and Zebras....Oh My!

It used to be that women who wore animal print fabrics were "exotic" and "sexy" but fortunately, that judgment is no longer valid these days.

Animal prints have become staples of many women's wardrobes, even young girls, without the public opinions of the wearer being "lusty" or "fast."



And the varieties of animal prints are varied.  There's the ubiquitous leopard print:


Anyone who knows me, knows that I have several leopard print pieces...dress, top, skirt, jackets, not to mention shoes!




Then there's zebra print:






Not to forget the giraffe print:







And very on trend right now is the python print:







The good news is that the animal does not need to be killed to wear these simulated "skins" - technology now enables us to wear these animal prints using imprinting, dying and design.

It is universally agreed that these prints are now seen as "neutrals" to be worn with your wardrobe, meaning you don't need to worry if you are wearing jeans and a striped top with leopard flats. It is totally appropriate, in fact, it is de rigueur.

If you don't have any animal prints, now is the time to add a few to your closet. Dress up a little with some of nature's best designs.

There's even jewelry if you want to start small....





So you can start bold or start simply, but I highly recommend that you start. You can find animal prints at almost any store for a variety of prices depending on the name brand you purchase.

There are several important guidelines when wearing animal prints to keep in mind:

• Don't wear too much, (i.e., leopard jacket, dress, and shoes; or zebra coat, slacks and handbag) One piece is your statement piece and should be enough to show the world how stylish you are.
• Don't wear shoes AND a dress in the same animal print (it is overkill or worse, the prints are impossible to match so you will be conflicting. Much too busy, so go for simplicity and panache.)  
• Don't mix your animal prints (like python, with giraffe or leopard or zebra). You are not Noah's ark and don't need to show all of the creatures you have in your closet at the same time. Pace yourself.

Here's a quote that pretty much summarizes today's post:

When a person is in fashion, all they do is right.  

Lord Chesterfield

So go be fashionable and wear some animal print!

Until next week, I remain,

Stylistically yours,

Sooz