Animal Print is not only a recent fashion trend; it has been around since the early 1930s. What’s more, it’s a trend that never fully dies. It may grow or lose in popularity, but it’s always somehow present.

As to this year, we can no doubt talk about an animal print revival. From the classic leopard print coat to zebra patterns and tiger stripes, animal print is here to stay. Animal print is an evergreen trend. That’s why it has been featured on catwalks all around the globe.

If you are an animal print lover, you’re in the right place! In this post, I’ll tell you all about animal print. Wearing an animal print clothing item or accessories will help you feel powerful and sexy. Ready to make the most out of your outfit?

Let’s get started!

ContentS

• What is animal print
• Animal print patterns
• How to wear animal print
• Animal print shoes
• Animal print boots
• Animal print dresses
• Animal print tops
• Animal print shirts
• Animal print skirts
• Animal print handbags
• Animal print accessories
• Animal print coats

What is animal print?

Animal print refers to a clothing and fashion style. What’s more, animal print articles resemble the pattern of the skin and fur of real animals, such as leopards, zebras, and tigers, among others.

Not surprisingly, animal print is also used for making handbags, footwear, and jewelry. Sometimes, it even appears in room decoration. Thus, the uses of animal print are more varied than just clothing items. 

You may well find animal print in decorations, wallpaper, painted surfaces, and more. However, animal print appears mostly used in fake furs that look like animal skin instead of using a real animal coat.  

Besides, animal print is highly versatile; you can wear it all year round. Just make sure it’s appropriate for the setting and location. Generally speaking, animal print calls others’ attention. So, it might not always be convenient.

Anyone can wear animal print to show off their personality. Most women feel attractive and powerful when wearing animal print articles. Not surprisingly, it has a flattering effect. I’ll explain how to make the most of animal print garments later on in this post.

What is animal print fabric?

Animal print fabric refers to any textile in which animal print garments are made. There are lots of common animal print fabrics. Chiffons, satin, velvets, art silk, georgette, lycra, cotton, leather, etc., are commonly used. 

There would be times when it will be necessary to combine several materials to create animal print fabric. Cotton, polyester, and spandex are generally used together. Each fabric has different qualities. So, depending on what result you want to obtain, you’ll need to use one fabric or another. 

Cotton and linen are inexpensive, popular, and versatile, whereas silk is more sophisticated. Polyester is a human-made fabric that’s widely used too. You’ll also find animal prints in materials like leather and lycra. 

History and origins of animal print

Animal print has its origins in primitive men and women who used animal skin to protect themselves against cold and wind. As time went by and with the arrival of civilization, animal print became a symbol of wealth and power. 

Not surprisingly, the chiefs of ancient tribes used to wear animal skins to prove their status. Likewise, during the Middle Ages, Kings and Queens wore skins to show off their power and strength. Back then, it was believed that the animal prints somehow gave them the power of the animal.

Anyway, it wasn’t until the 20th century when animal print became revolutionary and part of the fashion movement. Among the pioneers, it’s worth mentioning the actress Gloria Swanson who started adding exotic skins to her outfit in the 1920s. 

Afterward, during the 1930s, Tarzan the Apeman came to the screen. Its protagonists wore animal print clothing. And, soon after, manufacturers and designers took notice and included animal print garments in their collections.

In the ’40s female revolution marked a turning point in animal print. Women like the actress Bettie Page, who was a liberator pioneer, were an inspiration for animal print. She is famous for dressing up in a leopard print mini dress that made her feel sexy and fashionable.

Then came the decade of the ’50s when Christian Dior and his muse Mitzah Bricard opened a new framework full of sophisticated ideas. Dior’s obsession with leopard print was influenced by his right hand Bircard. It’s believed he relied on her advice to improve outfits by adding or removing accessories and pieces of clothing. 

The 1960s was when animal print became more consolidated. Women like Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and even Queen Elizabeth of England used animal print to portray elegance and sophistication.

The ’60s are also known for the Hippie movement. The Prints were exotic and chic but also elegant and refined. With the ‘70s came the punk rock movement, prints were used as an expression of freedom. Thus, it meant new prints in rebellious colors. It was the time of biker jackets, miniskirts, leopard boots, and jumpsuits, etc. 

Back in the 00’s animal print became a trend that comes and goes repeatedly. Still, it never fades away. These days, it’s more common to find animal prints in faux fur of excellent quality. 

Currently, you can find animal print in belts, hats, leggings, eyeglasses, clutches, tops, dresses, etc. The list is endless. Just remember not to overdo your outfit, and you’ll be dressed to impress. 

As Dior once said, “if you’re fair and sweet, don’t wear it.” Animal print is not only a fashion trend. It’s here to stay and make women feel powerful and sexy. Men can also wear it if they wish. 

And that’s all for this introductory chapter. Now you know what’s animal print, what’s animal print fabric, and how animal print first appeared in history. Thus, it’s time we move to the next chapter, where I’ll tell you all about animal print patterns.

Here are the most popular animal print patterns:

Leopard

Leopard is the most popular animal print so far. It became famous in the 1930s, soon after the film Tarzan the Apeman was released. The leopard print is made up of rosette spots. These are thick circles with a lighter center. 

Cheetah

Likewise, cheetah print also became famous thanks to Tarzan the Apeman film in the 1930s. However, this print consists of thick black spots together with small black dots. What I like the most about this pattern is the sensation of sophistication it portrays. 

Cow

The cow pattern first appeared at the AW18 catwalks. It consists of irregular round-back shapes that appear on a white background. However beautiful this animal print is, it is less famous than other patterns, such as leopard or cheetah prints.  

Crocodile

The crocodile print first appeared in the 1800s. This animal print pattern is generally used in accessories like shoes, belts, and bags. It is made up of an irregular graph pattern that resembles crocodile skin. 

Giraffe

The giraffe print consists of rectangular shapes grouped on a tan background. Even though this pattern is not as well-known as the predator ones, it’s no doubt flattering. Not to mention that its natural colors make it easily wearable.

Hyena

The hyena print is among the rare animal print patterns. It’s got a spotted design. So it may look similar to the cheetah one. Still, the hyena pattern has a characteristic background that is less tan. And the spots are no doubt different from the cheetah ones. 

Jaguar

The jaguar is another feline animal print. It consists of black rosette spots. That’s to say, thick circles with a lighter center with black spots. Unbelievable as it may seem, the jaguar print was first used by the Mayan civilization. But, it became popular in the 1970s thanks to the Punk Rock movement.  

Peacock

The peacock animal print is among the less known ones. It’s made up of colorful peacock feathers. Though it’s a rare pattern, it’s generally used in certain garments and accessories. 

Snake 

The snake pattern has been in vogue since the early 1900s. This pattern resembles the skin of a snake. It’s widely used in lots of accessories, such as shoes, belts, and bags. 

Tiger

The tiger print differs quite a lot from the rest of the feline animal print patterns. It consists of wavy black stripes cluttered with an orange background. It became popular in the 1970s. What’s more, you can find it in several unnatural colors.  

Zebra

The zebra print consists of long black stripes portrayed on a white background. It became widely well-known in the 1970s. It’s got an extremely graphic design with which you wouldn’t get unnoticed. 

Tortoise shell

The tortoise shell is made up of a brown spotted print. This pattern mostly appears in accessories, such as belts, sunglasses, or jewelry. It first appeared in ancient Greece.

And that’s all for animal print patterns. Now, you’re familiar with the most prominent animal print patterns. There may exist others. However, the ones mentioned above are not only standard but the most fashionable ones.

How to wear animal print 

In this section, I’ll help you with how to wear animal prints. 

Like it or hate it, animal prints can either make you look sophisticated or tawdry. What distinguishes one look from the other is how you combine your clothes. Animal print generally draws attention to the person who wears it. So, you should only wear it if it makes you feel confident.

If you’ve never worn it before, it would be wise to start using animal prints in your accessories. And then, move on to larger pieces as you feel comfortable with the look. Not surprisingly, animal prints emphasize the part of your body where you wear them. So, you’d better wear prints on body parts you’re proud of.

Besides, it’s advisable to keep it simple and don’t wear too many animal print pieces at a time. What’s more, simplicity is key. Thus, if you want to match your clothes with your accessories, remember that 2 or 3 animal print items are great; more might be too much.

Anyway, animal prints can be extremely flattering if worn with style. So, it would be wise to go for tasteful animal prints and of a certain quality. Cheaper materials will fade away sooner.

To show off your animal print garments, you must ensure there’s some harmony. Take into account that animal prints go well with neutral tones. However, some fashionistas also combine them with intense tones. So, it’s up to you.

The more colorful the rest of your clothing items are, the more striking your overall outfit will be. What’s more, accessories can make it or break it. So, think twice before you select your bells and whistles. 

Here are some tips you cannot miss:

• Wear only one animal print item at a time.
• Keep the rest of your outfit simple.
• Wear minimal accessories.
• Choose classic shapes at first.
• If you’ve never worn animal print before, start with small pieces or accessories.
• Select an outfit with which you’ll feel comfortable.

Dos & don’ts

Here are some dos and don’ts as regards animal print:

• Do pick classic pieces.

Classic pieces don’t go out of style. In other words, they are forever fashionable. Besides, classic pieces will make you look elegant and stylish, and they are easier to combine with other clothing items. 

• Do wear solid colors.

When combined with solid colors, animal prints become the main focus of attention. Thus, it’s a great idea to match animal prints with solid colors. However, if you wear animal prints with other patterns, your outfit could end up looking too cluttered. 

• Do pick simple and classic accessories.

Not surprisingly, simple and classic accessories also help make animal print the focal point. As you may well already know by now, it’s advisable to keep your look simple—this way, whatever animal print garments you wear will stand out.

• Don’t mix prints.

It’s advisable not to pair prints with prints. When it comes to animal prints, less is more. If you wear too many animal prints, you’ll run the risk of looking tawdry instead of sophisticated. 

• Don’t wear prints in body parts you’re trying to camouflage.

It comes as no surprise that animal prints call others’ attention. So, you’d better avoid wearing them in areas you want to camouflage. Some harmony and balance in your outfit are essential. 

Animal print trends for this year 

Unbelievable as it may seem, the animal print is a trend that never dies out. There are times when it’s more present and others when it’s less obvious. This year, the animal print trend is making a return.

After its success in 2018, it seemed the animal print trend wasn’t as prominent as it once was. Still, the comeback of animal print is unquestionable. What’s more, cool animal prints have been recently released.

This year, cow, giraffe, tiger, zebra, and tropical bird patterns are in vogue. There are loads of animal print pieces to choose from. Not to mention that you can wear animal print items during all seasons. Those animal prints that your parents and grandparents once wore are now fashionable again.

So, you shouldn’t underestimate the power of animal prints. They’re present in the catwalks. Names like Balenciaga, Marine Sierre, Tod’s, Bottega Veneta, and Marques’ Almeida are totally in favor of animal prints. 

Animal print is not only present in the catwalks; it also forms part of the streets. Anyone can wear animal prints as long as you select stylish items. Thus, if leopard print isn’t your cup of tea, give it a try and go for other animal print patterns!.

And that’s all for this chapter. Now you know how to wear animal print, it’s time we move on to the next chapter, where I’ll focus on more specific items. Since it’s unquestionable that animal prints are popular in shoes, the next chapter is devoted exclusively to animal print shoes. Read more to ensure you are up to date!

Animal print shoes, especially snake and leopard ones, are easy to combine with almost any attire. You can wear animal print shoes in all seasons. Besides, you can use them for looking casual, dressy, or with a semi-formal outfit.

What I like the most about animal print shoes is that they are somehow timeless. They appear again and again in many winter and summer collections. Thus, investing in a pair of animal print shoes is no doubt worthy.

 In other words, animal print shoes seem to never go out of vogue. Besides, animal print shoes are key to look trendy, sexy, and edgy. So, if you haven’t acquired a pair of animal print shoes yet, this year is a must-have. 

Some people think that wearing a leopard print coat, dress, or pair of pants is too much. However, with animal print shoes, you’ll never have that feeling. They’re just a complement that can completely change your attire without being extremist.

If this wasn’t enough, there exists a lot of variety as regards animal print shoes. You can find snake, cow, giraffe, tiger, cheetah, zebra, and leopard print shoes, to name a few. The most well-known are leopard and snake ones.

Not to mention that you can find summer and winter shoes, sandals, boots, etc. But, of course, what to wear depends on the likes of you. Besides, animal print shoes are generally easy to combine with the rest of your outfit.

You’ll probably have no problems matching your animal print shoes with neutral colors, black or white. Still, how to pair them depends on the rest of your outfit and the animal print shoes in question. You’ll find some of the coolest ideas just below!

Outfit ideas

Here are some animal print shoes outfit ideas:

Animal print sneakers.

Animal print sneakers are not only comfortable but also chic. You can mix them with a pair of jeans or even an informal dress to get a casual and sophisticated look. You can find them in lots of patterns such as leopard, snake or tiger. 

With animal print sneakers, the possibilities are endless. They’re likely to combine with multiple outfits. Slip-on sneakers are certainly in vogue. So, if you don’t own a pair yet, you should try them on!

What’s more, sneakers are a must-have. You can wear them with almost anything. The only drawback is that when you use them too often, it’s easy for them to get dirty. Well, do not panic! You can machine wash most animal print sneakers without mangling them.

Don’t know how? Check this how to wash sneakers post. There you’ll find everything you need to know to clean your favorite sneakers and prevent the colors from fading.

Animal print sandals.

Likewise, animal print sandals are quite versatile. You can pair them with shorts, a jumpsuit, a miniskirt, and more. It depends on whether your sandals are flat or with heels or wedges.

Flats are more casual than heels. So, depending on formality, you should opt for one option or the other. You can wear animal print sandals in summer and spring. If you are allowed to wear sandals to work, they are a great option. And, they’ll serve you well to meet your friends after work too. 

Animal print mules and clogs.

You can pair your mules and clogs with a shift dress or midi skirt, for instance. You can also wear them with pants or jeans. These kinds of animal print shoes tend to be worn by women who value comfort. 

Still, the fact that your shoes are comfortable doesn’t mean they can’t be chic and trendy. It is for this reason that animal print mules and clogs of any pattern will help you with just that, the fashionable part.

Animal print boots. 

Animal print boots match lots of outfits too. There are loads of types of boots out there. That’s why I’ll talk about them in more detail in chapter 5. Still, it’s worth mentioning that animal print boots can be worn with dresses, jeans, pants, skirts, and much more. 

Animal print ballet flats.

Not surprisingly, animal print ballet flats are a must-have. No matter the pattern, they are extremely comfortable, and you can easily pair them with other animal print accessories. Preferably of the same print, or it could be tricky to combine them with the rest of your outfit.

You can wear animal print ballet flats with jeans and neutral color pants, for instance. Besides, you can also wear them with a pretty dress or a pair of shorts and a top. Since they’re really comfortable, you can wear them with a soft denim tunic too. 

Animal print pumps.

 You can combine animal print pumps with a pair of jeans to get a casual and chic look. Still, you can also wear them with a dress or a skirt if you wish. Animal print pumps will make your footwear the focal point of your attire. 

So, it’s advisable to combine animal print shoes with plain clothes. Besides, you can also wear animal print pumps with a jumpsuit or even a pair of shorts. Pumps will make your look more sophisticated. So, pair them with elegant clothes, and you’ll have a perfect look! 

Animal print loafers.

Animal print loafers can be worn with a blouse and skinny jeans, for instance. Besides, you can also wear them with leggings and a cool top to get a more casual look. They’ll probably match with a midi skirt or dress too.

There are plenty of possibilities. You can wear animal print loafers with a sweater and pants. You can even wear them with a shirt, trousers and a blazer. Of course, it all depends on the color of your shoes. But, there are multiple options. 

Animal print espadrilles.

You can use animal print espadrilles with a pair of jeans or an informal denim dress. Since these shoes are really comfortable, they generally form part of casual outfits. Still, depending on the shoes, they can even be used to attend semi-formal events.

Espadrilles are more often than not handmade. They tend to be used in the spring and summer months. You can wear them for sightseeing, college or even work – if allowed by your company. You can pair them with a casual dress, a pair of shorts or jeans. Some models can be used with skirts and dresses as well.  

And that’s all for animal print shoes outfit ideas. I hope I’ve given you enough examples as to what to wear with animal print shoes. Anyway, in the next chapter, I’ll talk about animal print boots. So carry on reading to find out more!

There’s a lot of variety as regards animal print boots. What’s unquestionable is that most animal print boots, no matter the model, are timeless and edgy. So, if you do not want to go unnoticed, animal print boots are a must-have for the winter and fall. 

You’ve got animal print boots with high heels, flats, wedges, lace-up, etc. They can be pointed, rounded, or square in shape. These can vary from one collection to another. But, animal print boots patterns are always present. 

Besides, most animal print boots coordinate well with almost any outfit. You can wear boots with jeans, pants, skirts, shorts, and dresses. Not surprisingly, you might want to pair them with neutral colors such as black or white. Still, depending on the boots model, they might fit with vivid colors too. 

On top of that, most animal print boots will help you to upgrade your everyday outfit. So, if you don’t own a pair yet, it’s high time you research and buy some that match the likes of you. Animal print booties will help you look chic, but they’re also walkable and comfortable.

Not to mention that if you get the focus on your boots, you won’t need to wear outstanding clothes to look in vogue. Just with your boots, you can make a tremendous difference. If you want to cause a lasting impression, you can pair them with faux fur. 

Anyway, let’s have a look at animal print boots outfit ideas!

Outfit ideas

Here you’ll find my favorite animal print boots types together with ideas as to how to combine them. So let’s have a look at it in more detail!

Animal print heeled boots.

As you may well already know, animal print heeled boots are unquestionably sexy. Thus, you can wear them for a night out, dinner, or hang out with your friends. Besides, if your booties are high heels, they’ll help you look more stylish and feminine.

Animal print heeled boots are a classic. You can pair them with jeans, a dress of almost any length, a skirt and blouse, etc. What’s more, if you match them with a bag, you’ll have the perfect fit. Remember, your bag doesn’t need to be animal print. It can be the same color as your boots or in a neutral color too. 

Animal print ankle boots.

Likewise, animal print ankle boots can either be heeled or flat. If they’re flat, they would be ideal for a casual look. So, you could wear them with jeans, leggings or a denim skirt, for instance.

However, if your ankle boots are with heels, you can use them with a smart dress, khaki pants, a blouse, or even leather trousers. How to match your animal print ankle booties depends on how casual or elegant you want to appear since they can be worn with multiple outfits. 

Animal print slouch boots.

You can find slouch boots in different materials, such as suede or leather. What’s more, these boots can be heeled or not. And, you can find them in ankle-length, or they could be high boots. The possibilities are endless. 

Animal print slouch boots are unquestionably comfortable and easy to get in. you can style your animal print slouch boots with a midi dress or a skirt. They can also be worn with jeans. And, if they are high boots, you can even match them with a mini skirt or a pair of shorts. 

Animal print knee-high boots.

Similarly, knee-high animal print boots are perfect for when the weather is cold. These boots can either be heeled or not. Flat ones are more comfortable and tend to be worn with casual attire. You can wear them with jeans or a denim skirt, for example.

However, knee-high heeled boots are more feminine and sexy. Thus, a skirt or a dress will help you draw even more attention. If you want to wear animal print knee-high boots, you must know you’ll stand out. So, you’d better be prepared!

Animal print pointy-toe bootie. 

You can match your animal print pointy-toe booties with a monochromatic skirt and a cool top to make your boots stand out. Besides, a skirt and sweater make a great combo too.

These boots can be heeled or not. Not surprisingly, the ones with heels will make you look more elegant. Thus, you can pair them with smarter clothes. Yet, the flat ones are more appropriate for casual wear. 

Animal print Chelsea boots.

Animal print Chelsea boots are no doubt versatile. What’s more, they’re comfortable and easy to slip on. Leopard print Chelsea boots are among women’s favorites. However, there exist animal print Chelsea boots in other patterns such as snake or zebra. You can also find them in lots of colors.

All you have to do is research a bit and buy the ones that best match your preferences and style. You can pair your animal print Chelsea boots with almost any casual attire. Thus, you can wear them with jeans, pants, leggings, informal dresses and skirts, cardigans, shirts, etc.  

Animal print rain boots/waterproof boots.

If where you live it rains a lot, you must get a pair of waterproof boots. And, if they’re animal print ones, you’ll be the most stylish one. This kind of boots tends to be used only when the weather is rainy or to take part in an activity where you need to protect yourself from the water. 

You can find them ankle-length or mid-calf. The most widely known animal print rain boots are leopard, snake, and zebra ones. More often than not, these boots have a rubber sole to ensure no water passes to your feet. Waterproof boots are used for everyday casual wear when the weather is terrible.  

Animal print calf hair bootie.

You can find animal print calf hair boots in loads of patterns like giraffe, leopard, cheetah, zebra, tiger, etc. In addition, they can be healed or not. As always, the ones with heels can be used with semi-formal attire. However, those without them are more likely to be used with everyday casual clothes. 

And that’s all for animal print boots. I hope you’re better informed now about what to wear with them. Still, there are loads of animal print garments you may want to wear too. 

In the next chapter, I’ll deal with animal print dresses. So, if you’re a dress lover and want to know more, carry on reading!