Animal prints have been a fashion staple for decades, but they can be tricky to pull off without looking tacky. When done right, animal prints can add a touch of fierceness and sophistication to any outfit. However, when done wrong, they can easily go from chic to cheap. If you want to incorporate animal prints into your wardrobe but are afraid of looking tacky, here are some tips to help you do so with style.
1. Stick to one animal print per outfit
Mixing different animal prints in one outfit can quickly veer into tacky territory. To keep your look classy and stylish, stick to just one animal print per outfit. Whether it’s a leopard print dress, zebra print pants, or snakeskin shoes, choose one statement piece and keep the rest of your outfit subtle and neutral. This will allow the animal print to stand out without overwhelming the look.
2. Choose the right color palette
When wearing animal prints, it’s important to pay attention to the color palette. Opt for prints in neutral tones like black, brown, and beige, which are classic and versatile. These colors are easy to mix and match with other pieces in your wardrobe, creating a cohesive and polished look. Avoid bright and bold colors, as they can make the animal print look cheap and gaudy.
3. Tone it down with solid colors
If you’re new to wearing animal prints or are worried about going overboard, tone down the print with solid colors. Pair a leopard print blouse with black trousers or a snakeskin skirt with a white blouse to balance out the look. Solid colors will help to ground the animal print and prevent it from looking overwhelming or tacky.
4. Keep the rest of your outfit simple
To avoid looking tacky in animal prints, keep the rest of your outfit simple and minimalistic. Avoid loud accessories or busy patterns that can compete with the animal print. Opt for classic pieces like a white button-down shirt, black blazer, or simple denim jeans to complement the print without overpowering it. Remember, less is more when it comes to styling animal prints.
5. Choose quality over quantity
When it comes to animal prints, it’s important to invest in quality pieces. Cheap and poorly made prints can easily look tacky and unflattering. Opt for high-quality fabrics and well-constructed pieces that will stand the test of time. Look for animal prints that are realistic and have a sophisticated feel, rather than cartoonish or exaggerated prints.
6. Mix and match textures
To add depth and interest to your animal print outfit, mix and match different textures. Pair a silk leopard print blouse with a leather skirt or a faux fur leopard print coat with a cashmere sweater. Mixing textures will add dimension to your look and elevate the animal print from tacky to stylish.
7. Experiment with accessories
If you’re still unsure about wearing animal prints, start small by incorporating print through accessories. Opt for a leopard print scarf, snakeskin clutch, or zebra print shoes to add a pop of print to your outfit. Accessories are a great way to test out the trend without committing to a full-on animal print ensemble.
In conclusion, wearing animal prints can be a fun and stylish way to add a touch of personality to your outfit. By following these tips, you can wear animal prints with confidence and avoid looking tacky. Remember to keep it simple, stick to one print per outfit, and choose quality pieces to ensure a chic and sophisticated look. With the right styling, you can rock animal prints with flair and finesse.
