Fashion

Why the big cat print is the IT print of summer

Loved by many, the print defies seasons, trends and decades

Margot Robbie finds her feline side at the 2018 Film Independent Spirit Awards in March. Photograph: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Tue Jul 31 2018 - 06:00

If nostalgic prints like polka dots or florals are too saccharine or pretty for you, it might be time to upgrade to something altogether fiercer. Animal print roars back to life with a new grown-up twist. Leopard may be the king of the animal (print) kingdom right now, but there’s a more Norah’s Ark approach to the imminent sartorial season with even sightings of tiger, snake and the odd glimpse of zebra.

Animal print, in particular leopard, has a dubious reputation. From its Bet Lynch to its sex kitten connotations, there’s no denying the pitfalls of the big cat print, but there’s also a chic side, with just that right dash of delicious devilishness. Loved by everyone from Kate Moss to Jackie Kennedy, Joan Collins to Alexa Chung, the print defies seasons, trends and decades.

More classy, less trashy, on the catwalk it came in chic creations that would definitely look out of place in the Rovers Return. New-gen incarnations of the perennial print included disco shades at Tom Ford, tasteful trenches at Victoria Beckham and evening dresses lined with leopards at Caroline Herrera.

Soft spot

The high-street stores have been quick to follow suit, with zoological-prints inspired hitting stores now. But don’t procrastinate, if you’ve a soft spot for spots, swoop now, as leopardophiles are snatching up the cult pieces. Marks and Spencer’s animal print midi dress became their fastest-selling item this summer and influencer-friendly brand, Realisation Par’s silk leopard print skirt sold out within four hours, after being restocked on several occasions.

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The perfect trans-seasonal print, when the autumn hits, jungle-fever prints will look dashing teamed with black. But for the fairer weather, team it with pastel pink, dusty blue, white, khaki, cream, or for more of a tropical statement – fiery red. Keep it modern and sharp by avoiding anything too tight (or short); instead look for fresh flowing skirts or dresses perfect for this heatwave weather or shirts in silk that have an added louche factor. Pay attention to fit, fabric and cut – the winning formula is a powerful pattern in a classic cut topped off in a quality fabric. Beware of animal prints in acid-bright hues, if less confident with the IT print keep to classic camel and monochrome variations. It doesn’t take a big cat to make an impact, so a flash of feline print with choice accessories will lead to a long term investment.