
As a woman in your fabulous 50s and beyond, chances are you already have at least one animal print piece hiding in your wardrobe but you question whether or not to wear it. “I’m worried about looking like Bet Lynch” (if you know, you know!) and “Am, I too old for it now?” are two comments I regularly hear. Well let me tell you; if you love animal print… you get out there and wear it with pride.
Maybe it’s a leopard scarf, a zebra blouse, or even a pair of snake-print shoes how often do you pull them out of your wardrobe? If they’re sitting at the back, it’s time to give them some love!
Animal print never truly goes out of style, it’s just we see it more some seasons than others and this coming season, it’s out there in abundance! Wearing it with confidence and flair can make all the difference in how you feel about it. Here’s how you can bring new life to those timeless pieces you already own without buying anything new.
1. Start Small
If you’re a little hesitant about wearing animal print, ease into it by using accessories. Think scarves, belts, or a printed handbag. These touches are subtle but instantly add interest to any outfit. Pair a leopard scarf with a neutral sweater and jeans, or add a printed belt to jeans or trousers. It’s an effortless way to incorporate animal print without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Balance is Key
Animal print can sometimes feel bold, but that doesn’t mean you have to go all out Bet Lynch style! The trick to making it look sophisticated is to balance it with neutral tones. A simple black, white, beige, or denim ensemble can act as the perfect backdrop to show off your animal-print pieces. For example, if you have a zebra-print top, pair it with black trousers and a blazer. It keeps the outfit chic while allowing the print to pop in just the right amount.
3. Layer It
Layering is a great way to tone down a bold print or add depth to an outfit. If you have an animal-print blouse that feels too bold on its own, try layering it under a cardigan or jacket. It adds just the right hint of print without taking over the whole look. You can also reverse this and channel your inner Sarah Gray 9!) by wearing a solid-coloured outfit and layer on an animal-print jacket for a pop of personality.
4. Mix Prints (Yes, You Can!)
Believe it or not, animal print can work beautifully with other patterns. The key is to keep at least one of the patterns subtle. Try mixing animal print with stripes or polka dots, keeping the prints in the same colour family. If you have a leopard-print skirt, pair it with a striped tee for a fun, unexpected twist. Just remember, less is more – one piece should always be the star of the show!
5. Embrace Your Confidence
Animal print is more than just a pattern – it’s a statement. Wearing it is all about confidence, and you know more than anyone that confidence comes from within. If you feel good in your clothes, that radiates. So, if you love the idea of wearing your leopard-print dress, go for it! Style it with neutral accessories, a sharp blazer, or a leather jacket, and own the look.
6. Make It Casual
Don’t save your animal print for special occasions – bring it into your everyday wardrobe. Animal print can look great for casual outings, too! Throw on a printed scarf with a white tee and jeans, or wear those leopard flats with a casual dress. You’ll instantly feel more put together without much effort at all.
7. Footwear Focus
Have a pair of animal-print shoes you rarely wear? It’s time to break them out! A printed shoe can elevate even the simplest outfit, from jeans and a sweater to a little black dress. They’re a fun way to experiment with print without going overboard, plus they’re an easy way to update a classic look.
8. Make It Colourful
While we may not see pink leopards or purple zebras out in the wild, the beauty of clothing is that the print can be any colour we like! So if you have that colourful animal print piece lurking in your wardrobe..go grab it and get your animal print outfits on the road! Check of course the colours suit your colouring for best effect.
8. Remember: Anything Goes
One of the most liberating parts about owning your own style is the freedom to express yourself in ways that feel true to who you are. Remember: fashion rules don’t exist! So, if you’ve been holding back on your animal print pieces, give yourself permission to enjoy them. Pair that cheetah-print blouse with your favourite jeans or add those zebra shoes to your jeans & a top.
Final Thoughts: Time to Shine
Animal print is playful, chic, and timeless, and it’s already sitting in your wardrobe waiting to be worn. By following these tips, you can update your style without buying anything new – just by giving those pieces a new perspective. Remember, style is about having fun and feeling fabulous in your skin. So next time you’re getting dressed, take a second look at that animal print in your closet, and let it inspire your next great outfit.