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The passed 3 months have certainly been uncertain times for many businesses. The rate at which measures were implemented to reduce the spread of COVID – 19 meant that shops had to close quickly, manufacturing and distribution was disrupted or even stopped and new product launches delayed.
We all know that eating and drinking green stuff is good for us. and it’s been proven that when we surround ourselves with greenery, ie walking through a forest, sitting in the garden or filling our homes with house plants we feel more calm and relaxed. But what about wearing it? Green, although a beautiful colour (and my mum’s favourite by the way) is one that leaves people wondering how to wear it.
If like me you’re a child of the 80’s the style icon Bet Lynch won’t have passed you by. With masses of blond locks piled high, a long tip cigarette holder in hand, her sassy attitude and of course what she infamously celebrated for, the animal print. I thought then and still do that this woman was a sensation. But little did I know then that she wasn’t at the vanguard of this fashion style statement. Long before Bet was pulling pints with aplomb in the Rovers, Jean Harlow, Coco Chanel, Earha Kitt, Debbie Harry and many others had done it before her. Today we have the equally fabulous Victoria Beckham, Olivia Palermo, Anna Wintour and Gigi and Bella Hadid showing us how it’s done.
It’s allure is that it’s a little bit rebellious, totally unapologetic, sometimes extravagant and a lot powerful. It shouts out “don’t underestimate me” and I love it for that.
Head to toe print isn’t for everyone, but that’s not to say it isn’t doable, I applaud you if you’re all about going for it, afterall, if it’s good enough for Nicki Minaj. I don’t believe that animal print should be a binary decision where you either throw everything at it or you don’t do it at all. As a self confessed minimalist when it comes to style I still believe that I can wear animal print in a more modest way. It’s versatility is part of it’s charm. Whether your a minimalist or maximalist or somewhere in between, this is for everyone. Here’s my advice for pulling it off.
Sometimes a scarf, belt or some jewellery is all you need. Lois Avery creates the most beautiful cashmere scarves in a range of colours, but one of my favourites is their Bengal Kitten Animal Print Scarf. Alternatively a statement belt such as this rock star style silver studded belt can be worn to add a touch of pizzazz and these Iris leopard enamel hoop earrings by Regina PYO are just too cute not to want to wear every single day.
Another easy way to add this print is to wear it on your feet and the great thing about this pattern is that you can wear it no matter the season. Any of these shoes could be worn with a summer dress or a pair of black cigarette trousers. I love French Sole’s India ballet flats such as the or keds leopard print pumps and those Gianvito Rossi mules are so magnificent, hell, I’d never want to take them off, ever.
Putting different prints together works really well too, especially if making more of a statement is your thing. In the image below, Sophia is wearing two different leopard prints but it works because they are the same colour tone and are brought together by the black sweater and simple, one colour bag. Equally completely clashing patterns worn with jeans and heels is an inspired choice.
A white shirt, cashmere sweater or leather jacket are so versatile they will add instant elegance to any outfit and work brilliantly with animal print.
Everyone needs a pair of sunglasses and why not go for a statement animal print finish? The great thing about a pair of shades is the versatility. You could wear these with your kimono or a blazer and pants.
These bolder looks take the theme up a notch by adding shimmer to the pattern. Wow, just when you think animal print couldn’t get any better. However you chose to wear it, the most important thing is to feel comfortable, be confident and just go for it. No excuses, no apologies. Now let me hear you roar.
© 2019