Everyone is wild about animal prints this season because they’re a chic way to add excitement to your wardrobe. A touch of leopard, a fun pop of zebra, and an edgy snakeskin accessory – they all make a powerful statement.

 

But even though animal prints are trending and can look fabulous at any age, they can also be intimidating to style.  That’s why I wrote How to style animal print outfits that are refined and classy.

 

Follow along as I share timeless animal-print outfit ideas to inspire you to put together your look.

How To Wear Animal Prints Tastefully

What Colors Go with Animal Print?

Before we dive into creating outfits, let’s talk about which color to wear with animal-print outfits to keep things balanced. First off, I live by one rule: only one animal print piece at a time because you don’t want it to be matchy-matchy overkill. Here are a few colors that pair beautifully with animal prints: 

• Neutrals: Blacks, whites, and beiges fabulously complement animal prints. They tone down the print’s “flashiness” while still letting it stand out as a stylish focal point. This is a safe option for creating an outfit that tones down the edginess. 
• Earth tones: Olive greens, camels, and warm browns are a few other tones that naturally complement animal prints. Because they are within the same color family, earth tones can blend with animal prints to create a balanced, cohesive look. 
• Bold colors: Don’t be afraid to add rich jewel tones to your animal print looks, too! These shades can create a striking contrast as long as you don’t overdo it. Stick to one stand-out color, such as a pop of red, with your handbag or shoes.
• Denim: Denim is a timeless companion to animal print looks. It’s an easy way to tone down the print’s boldness and keep it more casual. 

How To Wear Animal Print Sweaters and Cardigans

Effortlessly Chic

I’m sure you’ve heard of effortlessly chic, and this gorgeous cashmere V-neck sweater is just that. It’s a cozy, elegant way to incorporate leopard print into your wardrobe and uplevel your favorite pair of jeans. My favorites right now are these medium-wash, slim-straight-leg jeans that hit just a tad above the ankle.

 

Another option for this animal-print sweater is to wear it with faux-leather pants or faux-leather leggings and cute flats. Need a more budget-friendly sweater? This Amazon Essential leopard V-neck sweater is very similar and also a great find.

Polished and Playful

Another great go-to leopard-print piece is a crew-neck animal-print sweater. A crew neck is generally flattering; however, the high neckline can make you look top-heavy if you are very busty. Jeans always look great with an animal-print sweater, giving this outfit a relaxed, chic weekend look!

Cozy and Casual

A thin cardigan layered over a fine sweater, with black bootcut jeans, is a striking combo.

Puffy not Stuffy

Who thought winter vests could look so chic? This midweight animal print puffer vest is perfect for transitional weather. I wear it all black, with black jeans, a black tee, a belt, and booties to make my outfit look slimming and my vest pop. 

A Touch of Drama

This artsy leopard-print poncho is a stunning statement piece that bridges the gap between fall and winter, or between winter and spring.

How To Wear Animal Print Pants

Tailored and Bold

Animal-print pants are ready and waiting for you to take a walk on the wild side. The key to wearing them without looking cougarish is to keep the rest of your outfit very toned down.

These leopard-print jeans look polished with a black roll-tab-sleeve shirt, a bucket bag, and understated black ballet flats. There’s one simple focus point—the pants—and that’s the way it should be. Less is more.

How To Wear Animal Print Blouses and Tops

Wildly Sophisticated

There’s nothing more glam than a silky leopard print blouse. This one is soft and feminine, plus the faux wrap front is figure-flattering and easy to wear. To look thoroughly modern, wear it with wide-leg trousers, a chic statement belt, and low-heeled booties.

 

Are you tired of leopard print? A snake print blouse is a more edgy option. Wear it with relaxed trousers and ankle boots.

 

Animal print T-shirts are also handy and look great with blazers, cardigans, and pants or shorts. 

How To Wear Animal Print Dresses

Subtly Stylish

Wearing a silky, big-cat-print skirt and a snuggly cashmere turtleneck is trending big at the moment and is a classic choice atany age. Tall boots that tuck under your midi skirt are the in-look! 

Flattering and Fierce

Wrap dresses are so figure-flattering, which is why I love this classic wrap midi dress in leopard print. The V-neck is sexy and feminine, but it doesn’t cut low enough to expose too much cleavage. Check out this post for more styling ideas for this fab leopard wrap dress!

How to Wear Animal Print Jackets and Coats

Here’s a cute jacket that makes walking the dog fun! Leopard print in snowy white and black. Wear it with all black to make it pop!

How To Wear Animal Print Shoes 

When you wear animal-print shoes, whether loafers, slingbacks, or sneakers, it’s important to balance them with other neutral pieces; for example, these chic and comfy loafers look fab with these brown jeans.

How To Wear Animal Print Handbags and Scarves

Big, Bold, and Beautiful

Animal-print scarves are also fabulous accessories. A woven scarf is cozy in winter; in spring, try a silk animal-print scarf tied to your bag or worn as a belt.

Handbags are where we can have a little extra fun, right, gals? This stunning bag is an elegant addition to casual looks. While it may be a little big and busy for a petite gal, this larger size is perfect for average- to plus-size gals. For more information, check out my post on choosing the right handbag for your body type. 

How are you incorporating bold animal prints into your wardrobe?

Finding outfit ideas featuring animal prints can be challenging. You want pieces that are tasteful and stylish, not tacky. To avoid overdoing it, wear colors that complement your look, opt for accessories that aren’t too gaudy or flashy, and always wear one print at a time. With these tips, you can feel confident and age-amazing no matter the vibe! 

 

Follow my LTK storefront to see my favorite animal-print pieces and how I pair them with different looks. You are also welcome to join my private Facebook group, Fabulous After Insiders, to discuss all the fabulous ways you’re incorporating animal prints into your wardrobe!