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Leopard print is, without doubt, one of the most versatile and reliable trends – if you can even call it a trend anymore. The bold print moonlighting as a neutral has become a mainstay in many a fashion enthusiast’s wardrobe over the years, and has come a long way since comparisons of Kat Slater or Bet Lynch. I think it’s safe to say that 2024 definitely saw a resurgence in the popular print, with the high street flooded with contemporary takes on the trend, allowing myself – and fellow leopard print lovers – to restock their wardrobe with fresh pieces.
Over the last 12 months I’ve picked up some dreamy numbers, from the never-off-my-backside Damson Madder jeans, to a Zara mini dress I snagged on Vinted for less than a tenner and wore on my birthday. Not to mention my ASOS ballet flats, Chelsea Peers pyjamas or the tote bag I got from TikTok shop. I mean, 30 seconds on my Instagram profile is proof enough it’s potentially an addiction at this point, but we all have our vices and there’s much worse to be had than a bit of animal print.
One of the reasons I love it so much is that it feels bold without being loud, fresh while remaining classic and is one of those patterns that can suit everyone if styled right.
One of my recent outfits – in fact, my first of 2025 that wasn’t pyjamas – centred around this Sister Jane blouse that Jake bought me for Christmas. Coming in at £59, the blouse has this gorgeous warm-toned leopard print with feminine and vintage-inspired details in the lace ruffle trims, velvet bow tie, and pearl buttons – all the little details that make it feel special. The flared sleeves give it the dreamiest silhouette that feels bold without being too over-the-top, and it’s the kind of piece that can easily be dressed up or down.
Slightly cropped, it’s great for pairing with a high waisted trouser, like these M&S Collection wide leg jeans in ecru. I have a little saved folder on Instagram where I save outfits I like, and every now and then I’ll have a flick through and see what I feel my wardrobe is missing, and a pair of light coloured, but smart (rather than slouchy) jeans were something I felt would fill a gap in my collection.
Fitting slim at the hips and loose through the leg, these high-waisted, wide-leg jeans are a chic style that’s incredibly comfy – great for balancing out the statement top. The cream color keeps the outfit looking fresh and modern, and they can be paired with so many other pieces in my wardrobe, so for £35, they feel like a worthy investment. Not only that, but they’re casual enough to wear with trainers (my brown and burgundy SL72 Adidas trainers are a personal favourite combo), but can be dressed up with heels for a more polished and leg-lengthening look.
I rescued these burgundy block-heeled boots from my mum’s Vinted pile, after she’d found them in a charity shop (so really, they’re like, thirdhand?), and they’ve been one of my favourite footwear picks this season, not least for the fact burgundy is a trend second only to leopard print this winter. The colour adds a subtle pop and prevents the lighter tones of the look from feeling washed out, while elevating the look with their glossy finish.
Layering is key in winter, and this sherpa vest is such a great layer for wearing under coats without adding bulk, or over outfits to add textural interest. When I initially put this outfit together, it felt like it was missing something but a quick trip to Sainsbury’s on the way out wearing the look and I knew this was the missing piece. The cream colour complements the lighter tones of the outfit without clashing with the leopard print, while the soft texture introduces an element of cosiness. It’s an effortless way to add warmth without sacrificing style, plus it was only £20 which I thought was a really reasonable price point.
I could have completed this look with a smarter handbag, but I thought this chocolate stitched detail crossbody was the perfect way for this outfit to find a middle ground between over and underdressed. I love how the shade of this bag just ties everything together, and I need not mention just how practical and spacious this style of bag is. You can read more about my favourite crossbody bags here.
The key to nailing this layered look, in my opinion, is contrast: the softness of the vest offsets the bold blouse, while the clean lines of the trousers add a structured element. By combining bold prints, soft neutrals, and rich textures, it creates visual interest without feeling overwhelming. It’s comfy and functional for the season, feeling on trend while staying true to my personal style – and that’s what it’s all about.
Elsewhere on the high street, some retailers have seriously leaned into the leopard print trend and totally nailed it. By far the highest number of leopard print pieces I own are from Damson Madder, who have really honed in on the trend and delivered instantly recognisable brand styles around it, which I adore. Meanwhile, Marks and Spencer’s selection of animal print pieces is absolutely divine, not to mention accessibly priced, with River Island stocking some more statement led designs, including faux fur coats, bubble skirts and knee boots. I could probably write a whole post about the leopard print pieces I’m lusting after at the moment, but that’s one for another day. In the meantime, you can shop my look here:
- Sister Jane: Lennox Lace Ruffle Trim Leopard Print Blouse – £59
- M&S Collection: The Wide-Leg Jeans – £35
- Tu Clothing: Stone Borg Fleece Gilet – £20
- Burgundy Boots: Charity shop find
- Bag: Tu Clothing
