The Revival of Leopard Print
Image Courtesy: Interview Magazine
Not many prints can claim the same lasting influence as leopard print, which has been turning heads and making bold statements for almost a century. Starting in the 1920s as a symbol of glamor worn by Hollywood stars, it became popular again in the 1940s and 1950s. The 1960s brought it into the mainstream, with icons like Jackie Kennedy making it a must-have, while the punk and rock scenes of the 1970s and 1980s embraced it as a rebellious fashion statement. By the 1990s, leopard print was undeniably everywhere.
The leopard print is so iconic that it keeps reappearing generation after generation. This fall, leopard print is making a comeback, but this time revamped as neutral—a trend that has received attention on the runway and in casual outfits. It is officially blending in and becoming part of everyday fashion rather than being a bold statement. With its neutral palette of beige, black, and brown, leopard print makes it easy to mix and match with other colors and textures.
The trend is showcased beautifully in Isabel Marant’s Fall 2024 Ready-to-Wear collection. Known for her effortlessly cool Parisian style, Marant introduced leopard print in a way that feels toned down. The muted tones and soft fabrics ensure the print doesn’t dominate, complementing the outfit. In one standout look, a glossy black jacket with a leopard-print collar is paired with trendy brown leather pants, serving a perfect mix of textures and prints.
Image Courtesy: Vogue
The coats in the collection are styled with baggy pants and fringed boots, channeling a retro-meets-now vibe. Leopard-print tights are matched with oversized knits, while the boots complement neutral-colored minimalist dresses. The collection serves an “urban cowgirl” aesthetic, mixing fringe, suede, and earthy tones with leopard print.
The print revival is also making a major comeback in the Dior Autumn Winter 2024-2025 collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri, which featured pieces like tailored coats and chic suits. Dior is giving us timeless elegance with a modern touch, and it’s beyond stunning. In a backstage picture from the show, models are seen getting ready to bring Chiuri’s vision to life. Matching sets display a cohesive design, while structured coats with belted waists bring the print to life by creating a sleek silhouette.
Image Courtesy: Another Mag
Chiuri’s designs also play with layering, as high-neck black underlayers offer a nice contrast to the leopard print. Accessories such as wide-frame sunglasses and leopard print hats take the look to the next level. Additionally, the combination of rich textures and sharp tailoring truly represents Dior’s iconic high fashion legacy, but with a modern edge that keeps the collection fresh and super innovative.
Meanwhile, Balenciaga is all about the oversized, laid-back looks in the Fall 2024 Ready-to-Wear collection, especially with its leopard-print faux fur coats. The print is reimagined on cocoon-shaped outerwear, giving off a cozy yet striking silhouette. Paired with slouchy jeans and chunky boots, it’s a fit that’s instantly elevated with a hint of luxury. The coats are thrown over wide-leg trousers and oversized sweatshirts, creating a relaxed vibe that balances boldness and comfort. Balenciaga’s take on leopard print screams everyday luxury while staying practical and aesthetic for fall.
Image Courtesy: Vogue
Beyond the runway, leopard print is making its mark in fast fashion, vintage boutiques, and thrift shops, making it easy for anyone to add to their closet. This trend is ideal for layering and mixing with go-to pieces. TikTok and Instagram fashion influencers are all over it, sharing different creative ways to style leopard print. From dressing for a chill hangout to dressing up for a date, they show us how to make the print work for any occasion.
Retailers like Zara and H&M have picked up on the leopard-as-neutral trend, creating pieces like leopard-print tops, slip skirts, and oversized coats ideal for layering. However, this trend is not just about clothes—leopard print accessories are having a major moment. From cute hair clips to belts, shoes, and bags, this print shows up in small, easy-to-wear details that make it fun to add to any outfit.
Image Courtesy: Zara
Leopard print isn’t going anywhere, and this fall proves it’s more dynamic than ever. With its neutral tones and easy-to-wear essence, it's perfect for experimenting with different styles without feeling like it’s too much. Whether dressing for the runway of life on campus or drawing inspiration from designers like Isabel Marant and Balenciaga, this trend proves that leopard print belongs in every closet.
Strike Out,
Writer: Salette Cambra
Editor: Dani Hernandez
Graphic Designer: Kate LaPine
Tallahassee