Trendspotting: Animal Prints for Fall
Aug 31, 2010
Despite my Mother’s obsession with leopard print high heels, I have never been, nor shall I ever be, an admirer of the animal prints. My subtle, understated style simply isn’t suited to the gaudy animalist fetishism that some women so readily embrace. But whether I like it or not, animal prints are HUGE this Fall so it is my duty as a fashion blogger to feature them.
Or at least, that’s what the other fashionistas tell me.
Because I think it’s fiscally irresponsible to spend a significant amount of money on what is likely a passing fad, I think the best place to go looking for animal printed pieces is a vintage shop. And since I live in my cubicle, the closest vintage shop is online retailer Etsy. Here are a few pieces sure to give your wardrobe a gaudy dose of fauna this Fall.
1960s Leopard Print Coat ($148)
Animal prints for the woman with the “Go Big or Go Home” attitude or Cruella DeVil.
1980s Tiger Stripe Miniskirt ($20)
Despite myself, I think this skirt could be cute with a black silk shell and a pair of open-toed shoes. Just make sure that they’re not…
Leopard Print Slingbacks Sz 6 ($125)
Which should be worn with something understated, like a burqa. I kid, I kid. Pair these pumps with a simple chocolate brown pant and a neutral blouse and you’ll be on trend without being overwhelming.
1980s Arrowhead Tiger Belt ($22)
If you really want a piece that screams Zulu warrior, then this belt is for you. Add a skinny jean and a blousy cream tunic and you’ll have an outfit that epitomizes Kenya California cool.
Leopard Lucite Bubble Ring ($11)
If you’re looking for a soupcon of animal print instead of a vat, this Lucite ring is simply adorable. The kind of thing that you could wear even after the trend is past its prime.
Slouchy Sequin Leopard Tee ($85)
I love sequins so much, that I even like this blouse in all of its Miami Vice, 1980s glory. It would look fabulous with a black pencil skirt and a black pump. It would also be killer with skinny jeans and a bootie.
(How sad is it that the piece I am obsessed with is the most gauche thing on the page? Clearly, my love of sequins is terminal.)
Sunjet Carrerra Sunglasses in Leopard ($42)
If you’re like me, and animal isn’t your thing, these leopard sunglasses would be a chic addition to any wardrobe. Who says sunnies are just for Summer?
Gotta say, B, I love the snark in this post. Biting.
Oh Belle, animal prints are classic! As long as you don't get all Jersey Shore with it and use one of the pieces you included, it's a timeless, classy look.
Thank you G. I like them as accessories more than anything else. It is the texture of the patterns I adore. Where else can a more mature person get a little wild and not look like she is trying to dress like a 20 year old.
I was begining to think I was the only sane person this fall. Animal prints are tacky. But I agree the skirt is kind of cute. It almost doesn't look like an animal print – just a nice stripey kind of thing.
Last winter I was looking at a blog with a photo of a fashion-blogger get-together and three of the 8-9 gals had animal skin coats on. Isn't the idea not to look like everyone else?
I think if you're the type who really lives these prints you probably already own an animal skin coat, along with the blond hair, sky high heels and big sunglasses. So dig that coat out or maybe replace it with a new one.
If you aren't then a little splash is fun but don't over do it.