A/W 2013 trend alert: Leopard print

Leopard print is a trend that comes around again and again. It can sometimes be considered quite trashy, but executed in the right way, it can look extremely cool! However, if you do decide to wear it head-to-toe, do expect to be called Bette Lynch. 

On the A/W 2013 catwalks, everyone from Diane von Furstenberg to Tom Ford sent animal print pieces down the runways. This season, leopard print is featuring on everything from shoes to hairbands, but this time we’re seeing colour variations and not just the standard beige and black. There’s a lot of blues and reds which give more of a punk edge to the classic print. 

Everyone has the ability to wear leopard print; however, it’s the way you wear it that makes the difference. You can be subtle with a pair of shoes, bag or hair accessory so that you have just a flash of leopard print in your outfit. If you are a bit braver, you could opt for a skirt, top or even a pair of leggings in leopard print. However, although a lot of the designers sent whole outfits featuring leopard print down the catwalk, this can be quite a difficult look to pull off. 

Most of us would immediately head to our nearest shopping centre or high street to start looking for some animal print pieces, but you can find some hidden gems online. Also, by buying them from an independent retailer, you are more likely to get yourself an exclusive item.

If you’re opting for subtle hints of leopard then you may want to try this cute satchel from Hey Sailor, or you may prefer this necklace from ilovecrafty.

For those who are a bit braver and like to stand out in the crowd, you will love this dress from Cagecity. 

There are so many choices out there for leopard print but the important thing to remember is to wear the print that suits you. The intention is not to go out looking like you’re dressed as a leopard for a fancy dress party, but to look like an on-trend fashionista. 

Jenny Rodgers