The Roaring Trend: Leopard Print Dominates Fashion in 2023

In the dynamic world of fashion, 2023 witnessed the resurgence of leopard print, making it an iconic trend throughout the year. From high-profile collaborations like Between Wales Bonner's Adidas Sambas to the front-row presence of Michael Kors in spring 2024, leopard print became the epitome of style, signaling the revival of the Indie Sleaze aesthetic.

Historical Roots: Contrary to its association with the party culture of the 2010s, the leopard print craze traces back to the late 1950s and 1990s, with notable appearances in films such as "Party Girl" featuring Cyd Charisse and Parker Posey. Over the years, the trend found enthusiasts ranging from Queen Elizabeth and Jackie Kennedy to Audrey Hepburn, Kate Moss, and even the Spice Girls' Mel B.

Styling Tips from the Stars:

1. Light Touch: Celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian embraced the purest form of indie sleaze, pairing leopard print shorts with a Madonna T-shirt and trendy moto boots, while Kendall Jenner opted for subtlety with a leopard print coat collar.

2. Accent Pieces: Selma Blair, Maya Hawke, and Rosamund Pike demonstrated an elegant approach, using leopard print jackets, blouses, and skirts as accent pieces, often combined with all-black outfits for a heightened impact.

3. Bold Accessories: Dua Lipa and Halle Berry showcased their fashion prowess with leopard print bags, adding a bold touch to their ensembles. Lipa paired hers with a sculptural knit dress and Kiki boots, while Berry sported a printed duffle bag during her airport travels.

4. Funky Footwear: Director Janicza Bravo and diver Tom Daley made statements with leopard print footwear. Bravo power-clashed a classic plaid kilt with leopard lace-up Oxfords, while Daley paired his loafers with a sweet pink sweater and matching saddle bag.

5. Going Big: Irina Shayk, Winnie Harlow, and J.Lo embodied the maximalist approach, donning full-length leopard print dresses. Shayk favored the maxi dress, styling it with sneakers, Harlow graced the red carpet in a slinky, long-sleeved frock, and J.Lo, the epitome of commitment, rocked a long-sleeved minidress embellished with ostrich feathers over sequined tights, finished with leopard stilettos.

Conclusion: Whether you're a leopard-curious fashionista looking to dip your toe in with light accents or a trendsetter ready to pedal to the metal, 2024 promises to be a year dominated by the roaring presence of leopard print in the world of fashion. 

January 1, 2024