Leopard print is a timeless fashion trend that originally gained popularity back in 1947 after Christian Dior introduced the iconic pattern to the catwalk. Since then, it's become a fashion staple that can be styled various different ways.
According to Google Trends, leopard print tends to peak every fall and is currently trending at a five-year high. In fact, about 271,000 people have searched for "leopard print" within the past month.
But what is it that makes the pattern so popular? Lindsey Bernay, a leading fashion expert, says that "leopard print is versatile — it can be as bold or subtle as you like, no matter your age."
Whether you're headed to a football game or brunch with friends, a pop of animal print can jazz up any outfit if you style it correctly. We spoke with fashion experts to help find the best leopard print clothing and accessories to revamp your fall wardrobe.
Is leopard print trending | How to style leopard print | Best leopard print, according to experts | Best leopard print, tested by editors | How we chose | Meet the experts
Is leopard print trending?
I've started riffling through my closet to find my favorite sweaters, dresses and accessories for fall, and many of them happen to be leopard print. But is this pattern actually trending?
Bernay assures us the answer is yes.
"I love when fall rolls around because it means: It’s leopard print season," she says. "Since my early days working in fashion in the 2000s, leopard has been a styling staple year-round, but it truly shines in the fall," Bernay continues.
I love when fall rolls around because it means: It’s leopard print season."
"Leopard print is the perfect fall 'go-to' for a power neutral. This season, I’ve seen incredible leopard print styles in footwear, handbags, blouses and of course, the ultimate wardrobe staple — a leopard print coat," suggests Bernay.
According to Christina Stein, a personal stylist and CEO of Style by Christina, "Leopard print isn’t a trend, it’s a classic, it's something that year after year makes an appearance in some way shape or form." In other words, leopard print is consistently trending and doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.
How to style leopard print
When it comes to styling leopard print, there are multiple ways to wear it gracefully without going overboard.
"Leopard can be a bold statement on its own or incorporated into a chic, monochromatic look," says Bernay. "I love styling leopard pieces with rich fall tones. Pair your leopard print with bold berry shades, deep burgundy, hunter green, rich mustard, chocolate brown, cream or classic black," she recommends.
"Pairing leopard with elegant winter hues elevates your look. Just be mindful of over-accessorizing, which can sometimes make leopard print feel 'too much,'" says Bernay.
Stein recommends styling leopard or any animal print as a neutral. "Think of classic colors you would use to accessorize with and replace them with leopard," she explains. "IE instead of a beige flat opt for leopard, instead of a black blazer, go for leopard! If you’re someone intimidated by the pattern stick to utilizing it in accessories," states Stein.
Best leopard print clothing and accessories, according to experts
Most budget-friendly: H&M Bow-Detail Hair Elastics
- Affordable
- Fashionable
- Colors may not be as expected
Sizes: One size | Colorways: Four | Materials: Polyester
Bernay recommends this adorable hair accessory to help introduce individuals to leopard print. "If you’re not ready to make leopard a wardrobe staple, these leopard bow hair ties are the perfect finishing touch to your fall look," she shares.
"They can complement other leopard pieces or stand out as the statement accessory in your favorite fall outfit. Feminine and powerful, they blend delicate and bold, all wrapped up in a bow (literally)!" raves Bernay.
"Effortlessly chic": Zeagoo Leopard Print Blouse
- Soft fabric
- Lightweight
- May run big
Sizes: S-XXL | Colorways: 28 | Materials: Polyester, spandex
"I love the shape and style of this blouse," says Bernay. "It’s effortlessly chic with a simple flat or dressy sneaker for daytime, and transitions perfectly from day to evening when paired with dark denim or ripped jeans for a great night-out look with friends," she suggests.
This stylish blouse is great for the office and comes in over two dozen shades.
Accessorize with silk: J. Crew Printed Silk Scarf
- Elegant
- Versatile
- One size
Sizes: One size | Colorways: Four | Materials: Silk
"Using small accessories is a good way to incorporate the pattern without over-commitment," says Stein. This classic scarf is extremely versatile and can be worn as a fun hair accessory or around the neck.
Stylish and sophisticated: GAP Satin Midi Dress
- Adjustable straps
- Stylish
- Comfortable
- Material may be thin
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colorways: Three | Materials: Polyester
When it comes to finding an affordable leopard print dress, this midi option from GAP checks all the boxes. “A leopard print dress is a versatile base layer for your fall outfits,” explains Bernay. “Pair it with a denim jacket, a hunter green sweater or a cream cable-knit cardigan. Mid-calf booties complete the look,” she suggests.
For everyday wear: Zara Animal Print Puffer Jacket
- Modern
- Pockets
- May run large
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: One | Materials: Cotton, viscose, polyamide
"This is the ultimate run-around jacket for fall and winter," says Bernay. "Super stylish over athleisure, it also pairs beautifully with midi satin skirts or classic trousers for a chic, versatile look," she shares. This modern jacket features a round neck, long sleeves and front patch pockets for easily storing your go-to lipstick.
Double the trend: Franco Sarto Tinsley Mary Jane Flats
- Stylish
- Versatile
- May run small
Sizes: 5-11 | Colorways: Nine | Materials: Faux leather, rubber
Stein is a big fan of these Mary Jane flats in classic leopard print. They each feature a faux patent leather upper, a square toe and an adjustable buckle closure for your desired fit.
“I always find myself reaching for these shoes when I want to accessorize my outfit," says social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo. "They are cushioned on the inside so they last all day, and they pair perfectly with neutrals or a print!” she explains.
A "modern, sleek cut": Damson Madder Dion Leopard Carpenter Cargo Pants
- Chic
- Great quality
- Limited sizing
Sizes: 2-12 | Colorways: One | Materials: Cotton
"For a leopard pant look this fall, opt for a style, like this pair from Anthropologie," suggests Bernay. "The muted brown leopard shade and modern, sleek cut make them a standout choice. Cargo pants are trending this season, adding a utilitarian edge to your wardrobe, and a leopard print adds a bold twist to the classic style," she explains.
Splurge option: Mango Leopard Straight Coat
- Pockets
- Comfortable
- Classy
- Size up for oversized look
Sizes: S-L | Colorways: One | Materials: Cotton, elastane, polyester
"Want to make an all-black look pop? This blazer will definitely do just that!" says Stein. This trendy coat includes two side pockets and front button closure so you can stay extra warm all season long. Finish the outfit with a pair of jeans and classy clutch for a night on the town.
Best leopard print clothing and accessories, tested by editors
Bling bling: HSWE Leopard Knotted Headband
- Stylish
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Jewels may come off easily
Sizes: One size | Colorways: One | Material: Leopard print fabric
I [Wise] own this bedazzled leopard headband and am obsessed with it! I tend to wear a lot of black clothing, so this colorful accessory makes the perfect accent to any neutral outfit. Not only is it stylish, but it also is extremely comfortable and stays firmly on my head all day long.
Editor favorite: BBjinronjy Clutch Purse
- Great for formal occasions
- Elegant
- Mixed reviews on durability
Size: 8.5" x 5" x 2" | Colorways: 10 | Materials: Suede
If I'm [Wise] wearing a classic LBD, this animal print clutch is my go-to accessory for any formal event. From weddings to charity galas, this statement bag makes the perfect companion and holds all your favorite items, like moisturizer or foundation.
Strut your stuff: Illude Women's Ankle Boots
- Chic
- Comfortable
- Solid heel
- Inside fabric tears easily
Sizes: 6-11 | Colorways: Nine | Materials: Rubber, suede
I [Wise] have been rocking these block heel booties for the last three seasons in NYC. I've worn them to work, PR events, family dinners and even while walking around Bryant Park. The thick heel is much more comfortable than classic stilettos and makes me less accident prone to falling in the middle of Manhattan.
Take a ride on the wild side: Abercrombie & Fitch Paloma Mesh Top
- Super comfortable
- Fitted silhouette
- See through
Sizes: XXS-XXL | Colorways: Two | Materials: Polyester, elastane
"I love this top so much!" shares commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "It pairs well with jeans, slacks and skirts and adds a trendy vibe to your look. It looks elegant and features ruched details on the sides, which makes the fabric fitted to the body," she continues.
Espinal suggests wearing a lightweight camisole underneath to avoid being able to see through the top.
Easy to slide on and off: Vans Unisex Classic Slip On
- Lasts a long time
- Don't dirty easily
- Limited retailers
Sizes: 5-9 | Colorways: Two | Materials: Canvas
"My sister got these for Christmas many years ago in an attempt to 'up' my shoe game, and they’ve remained in good condition ever since!" shares associate editor Sierra Hoeger. "I’ve worn them to gamedays, out to the bars, to work, and commuting around the city and they’re one of my favorite shoes to slip on and run out the door in," she says.
"I always get compliments on them, and they pair well with so much in my closet, whether it be wide leg jeans or a black maxi dress," Hoeger explains.
Dress for fall: Carbon38 Strappy Dress
- Built-in shorts
- Hidden pockets
- Versatile
- Straps are not adjustable
Sizes: XS-XL | Colorways: Six | Materials: Melt
"I live in my exercise dresses during the summer and I’m super excited to rock this animal print one well into fall," says product associate Audrey Ekman. "Leopard is having such a moment right now and this piece is the comfiest way to wear it, with a super soft stretchy material and a slimming built-in bodysuit with shorts," she shares.
"I’m looking forward to pairing it with moto boots and a chunky cardigan as we head into cooler months!" suggests Ekman.
Frequently Asked Questions
"When it comes to investing in leopard print, I can confidently say it’s worth it," suggests Bernay.
"I've been bringing out the same leopard cardigan each fall for the past 11 years, and it still feels fresh and fun. Leopard print is timeless, and you'll enjoy wearing it year after year. The way you style it is up to you!" she raves.
How we chose the best leopard print
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best leopard print clothing and accessories by enlisting the recommendations of personal stylists and sharing tips on how to style these wardrobe staples. We also included a few editor-tested favorite animal print clothing, shoes and accessories as well.
Meet the experts
- Lindsey Bernay is a leading fashion expert, stylist and author of the book, “You Can’t Leave the House Naked.”
- Christina Stein is the CEO of Style by Christina and styles clients in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami and London.
