Animal Magnetism

Leopard is the must-have print for this season—and next

Leopard prints are one of two things: gaudy or glamorous. Here at Elizabeth Street, we much prefer to look at this animal print with the same appreciation as another Elizabeth—Elizabeth Taylor, to be exact. Jet-setting through many exotic film locations, this mom of four was often seen rocking the spotted print the way a Hollywood icon should. And today, many famous moms—like Jennifer Lopez, Kate Moss, and Beyoncé—are nodding to Taylor’s impeccable sartorial sensibility.

The same can be said of many apparel brands. Just last month, designers debuted their pre-fall collections for astute shoppers that prefer its ease to dressing over the spectacle of the fall presentations. And just like Taylor, many designers, for pre-fall, have embraced the animal magnetism of the leopard print. Lanvin and Gucci have always been on the forefront of glamour, but they really amped-up the intensity by having full-on leopard ensembles that could be worn from work to dinner. New York-based designers Thakoon and 3.1 Phillip Lim are also seeing spots, but utilized the print for daywear with cropped pants, swing coats, and biker jackets. 

Those pieces will hit stores in a few months, but if just the thought of them has you growling for leopard, the spring accessories have got you covered. And if complete leopard looks are too much for your liking, a handbag could be the perfect option. Click through the slideshow and shop for the bag that will have you feeling as alluring as Elizabeth Taylor.—Barry Samaha