While this is on my fall fashion accessory trend list, I wanted to do a separate post on animal prints in general. I will be addressing animal print shoes in an upcoming How do I wear that trend post so stay tuned for that, but this information is important as well.
I have noticed that animal prints are big this fall. I think animal prints are a great thing to incorporate into your wardrobe but it should be done with caution. With that in mind, I wanted to discuss some important things to keep in mind when you decide to delve into animal prints.
1. Don’t wear animal print from head to toe. If you are an animal print newbie, doing this can definitely be intimidating. However, if you’re an animal print veteran, you may like it. I caution against it because more often than not you could end up looking like a piece of furniture or a bed spread and that’s never flattering. Now for you ladies that do things in an over the top fashion on a regular basis, go for it! But for you ladies that don’t and just want to spice things up, I would suggest staying away from the head to toe animal print.
2. Don’t over accessorize animal print. If you decide to use your accessories as a way to wear animal print, great! You’re definitely going to add some great depth to your outfits. However, I would suggest only wearing one or two pieces in the print.
Do not go all out with animal print earrings, stockings, a bracelet, a headband and a purse all at the same time. While I understand that the jewelry you wear should compliment each other, you will look way too matchy, matchy. I know you may like the idea of matching but it can sometimes work against you, especially when wearing a print. If you want to do accessories, wear no more than two with the same print at the same time.
3. Don’t wear two different animal prints at the same time. As with any print, mixing is not advised. If you want to wear leopard print, zebra print and tiger print, that’s wonderful. However, don’t wear all three at the same time! Mixing and matching is great when you’re dealing with solid colors but doing it with prints can be dicey.
4. Don’t wear animal print with a lack of confidence. Animal print tends to stand out, no matter how you wear it. You should wear your clothes, they should not wear you. When you decide to put on animal print (and I strongly encourage you to), you should do it confidently. Don’t be afraid to put little extra strut in your stuff. Enjoy the attention you will receive by wearing animal print the right way.
Stay tuned for more insight on this subject. I’ve seen so many people wearing animal print wrong that I felt it important to address it head on. Please, ask questions and seek clarification if you’re unsure about anything. Don’t step out looking less than your best but don’t be afraid to try something new, either.
Ashia Sims is a writer and blogger that works in television and film production. Clueless Fashionista is dedicated to making fashion fun and easy to understand.
Visit her website at www.ashiasims.com and blog at http://cluelessfashionista.com.
