If you were ever in doubt about the versatility of leopard print, Fall 2018 may just be the period that changes your mind. This wild print has been everywhere and has officially transcended its sassy, over-the-top beginnings to be considered, for all fashion intents and purposes, a neutral.
Leopard is such a staple in our closets that it’s hard to remember a time when it wasn’t on trend. But looking into the fashion annals of this spotted print, we may just have J.Crew’s former reigning queen Jenna Lyons to thank. Once the creative director started pairing leopard with just about every color and pattern imaginable, the fashion-loving masses started embracing wild spots on a more frequent basis (rather than just when the trend cycle said it was chic again). No longer considered a perennial print only for rock stars and rich ladies who lunch, leopard started finding its way into the wardrobes of the regular people — and there it stayed.
Now that leopard is on regular rotation, it’s officially a reliable print that can be paired with just about any look. If you still need photographic evidence, allow us to present the street style crowd wearing it with everything from graphic tees to paisley dresses. Click through to see how it goes with everything, and say hello to your new neutral.
[ Next: Camo Print Is What’s Missing From Your Wardrobe ]
14 Street Style Looks That Prove Leopard is a Neutral
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With Ladylike Red
A proper dress and blazer get a dose of edge with leopard print boots.
Image: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
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With Other Neutral Prints
Try pairing leopard print with a muted pattern of similar scale for an unexpected mash-up.
Image: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
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With a Pop of Orange
Play up the warmer tones in leopard print with a citrus-hued knit.
Image: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
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With a Prairie-Inspired Mini Dress
A high neck and balloon sleeves look instantly cooler with a leopard bag.
Image: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
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With a Bold Floral
Fauna plus flora equals a match made in heaven. Just trust us.
Image: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
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With Bright Blue and Red Accents
Sporty spots? Why not?
Image: Imaxtree
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With a Skater Tee
Nothing says easy and effortless like a T-shirt and wayfarers.
Image: Imaxtree
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With Jewel Tones
One of the other big trends of the season plays well with leopard, indeed.
Image: Imaxtree
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With Dusty Pastels
Mint, aqua and leopard? We consider this a triple threat.
Image: Imaxtree
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With Rich Boho Pieces
Pile this print on with luxe brocade and faux fur accents in jewel hues.
Image: Imaxtree
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With a Graphic Tee
Rock ‘n’ roll meets ladylike sophistication with this combo.
Image: Imaxtree
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With a Printed Pajama Top
The dainty PJ pattern gets a fashion girl upgrade when paired with leopard.
Image: Imaxtree
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With Bright Red Trousers
Don't be afraid to go bold on top and bottom.
Image: Imaxtree
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With Army Green
A leopard print bag balances out a stiff, military-inspired olive dress.
Image: Imaxtree
