Animal Instinct

Outdoor fashion portrait of young woman wearing trendy leopard print coat, leather beret, holding black suede bag with fringe, posing in street of European city. Copy, empty space for text

By Lisa Dante

 

Are you over the heat already?  After experiencing the hottest summer on record, I know I’m looking forward to cooler days.

It’s hard not to give in to the excitement of looking forward to cooler temperatures. I know, some people actually enjoy the summer heat and everything that goes along with the very spirit and essence of summer.  But fashion wise, when it comes to dressing, there are just so many more ways to layer and style an outfit when the weather turns cooler. And with that comes fall fashion.

Anything animal inspired has really become a fall classic. Animal prints have been a fashion staple since the 1930s. Christian Dior is credited with making animal print a beautiful, chic, way to dress. The fashion world has dubbed people who wear the print as adventurous, exciting and attractive. Sounds good to me.

After scrolling through countless fall 2022 runway shows it became clear that we’re in for a very wild fall. Cheetah and leopard prints remain the most popular, but zebra, tiger and snakeskin prints are giving them competition. A little goes a long way. When it comes to animal prints,  a subtle accent, here and there lets the pattern speak for itself and won’t be overwhelming. For example, if you’re wearing an animal print top, pair it with a solid bottom. Conversely, an animal print bottom will go nicely with a solid top.

For those not ready to take the plunge, animal print accessories give any outfit a real pop of glam and go with just about anything. Wear the outfit of your choice, even a fall floral pattern and throw on a pair of animal print boots, pumps or a handbag.  I love a red lip with any animal print! Now you’re all set to show your wild side in true fashionista style.

Just about anything you can imagine comes in animal print. You’ll find everything from jewelry to umbrellas.

One of the most classic combinations is pairing the pattern with a solid bright color.  Any of the neons go really well too. Of course, all of the classic, autumnal colors of the season, like rust, marigold, pumpkin, and chocolate brown, are striking accompaniments too.

Unleash your wild side this fall!