Leopard print is, once again, having a major moment in fashion, proving that this bold pattern never really goes out of style. From high-fashion runways to streetwear, the resurgence of leopard print is impossible to miss. Whether it’s incorporated into statement outerwear, dresses, or accessories, this fierce print has a long-standing history of making a striking impact.

Leopard print has graced the wardrobes of style icons across generations. From Hollywood legends like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy to fashion-forward rebels like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, the pattern has always symbolled confidence and individuality. Its appeal lies in its versatility—it can be glamorous, edgy, or even subtly sophisticated, depending on how it's worn.

Today’s fashion scene is blending nostalgia with modern flair, and leopard print is leading the charge. We’re seeing a rise in animal prints, especially as the "Indie Sleaze" revival nods to early 2000s aesthetics, mixing grunge and glamour in exciting ways. TikTok fashion influencers are embracing this look, styling leopard print with oversized sunglasses, vintage denim, and bold accessories. The print is also a favourite in today’s “Mob Wife” aesthetic, which leans heavily into retro glamour with a rebellious twist.

Beyond nostalgia, fashion designers are giving leopard print a fresh update. Collections from big names like Michael Kors and Wales Bonner have elevated the print, showing how it can move seamlessly between casual daywear and high-fashion looks. This season, we have seen leopard print not only on coats and dresses but also on accessories like shoes, handbags, and sunglasses. Paired with sleek designs and neutral tones, it’s a great way to make a statement without going overboard.

Ultimately, the leopard print trend is proof that fashion loves to recycle the best of the past while adding contemporary flair. Whether you’re dressing it up for a night out or keeping it casual, this print is the perfect way to add a touch of boldness and fun to any outfit.

History of Leopard Print in Fashion

Leopard print has a rich history in fashion, dating back to ancient civilizations where it was often associated with power, status, and luxury. In many African cultures, leopard skins were worn by royalty and tribal leaders as symbols of strength and nobility. This association with power continued into European history, where leopard fur became a luxury item among the aristocracy during the 18th and 19th centuries.

In the 20th century, leopard print transitioned from being a symbol of wealth to a bold fashion statement. The 1940s and 1950s saw leopard print emerge as a glamorous choice for Hollywood starlets. Icons like Marilyn Monroe and Bettie Page helped popularize the pattern, cementing its place as a symbol of femininity and allure. Christian Dior was one of the first high-fashion designers to incorporate leopard print into his collections, notably in his 1947 "New Look" collection, where he used the print on accessories like hats and scarves, as well as on dresses.

Leopard print's popularity surged again in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the counterculture and rock 'n' roll fashion movements. The print became synonymous with rebellion and sex appeal, adopted by musicians and style icons such as Debbie Harry of Blondie and later by designers like Vivienne Westwood during the punk era.

In the 1980s and 1990s, leopard print continued to be a staple in fashion, with designers like Gianni Versace and Dolce & Gabbana embracing it in their opulent, maximalist designs. The print was used to convey both a sense of luxury and an edgy, daring attitude. 

Leopard Print as a Current Trend in Fashion

 Leopard print is undeniably popular right now, but let's be honest – it's more than just a passing trend. This iconic pattern has been adored for decades- a versatile neutral that never truly goes out of style. However, despite its enduring nature, leopard print has seen a resurgence in recent times, gaining significant attention from fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and influencers who are showcasing it in their latest outfits. 

This classic print made a strong appearance on the SS24 runways (including Celine, Michael Kors and Dolce & Gabbana) and continued to dominate the AW24 collections (with designers like Dior, Jacquemus, and Isabel Marant). This makes it the perfect time to incorporate leopard print into your wardrobe, knowing it will remain stylish well into 2025.

When styled correctly, you can avoid any outdated or “tacky” associations when styling leopard print. Rather than going for an over-the-top look, aim for a balance of playful and polished to achieve a sophisticated, 'quiet luxury' vibe. 

If you still find leopard print a bit intimidating, start small with accessories like a bag, belt, scrunchie, or of course sunglasses!

Celine and Leopard Print in 2024

Leopard print has a deep-rooted history in the fashion world, and Celine has masterfully woven this iconic pattern into its design DNA over the years. The brand's use of leopard print is not just a fleeting trend; it reflects a legacy of combining boldness with sophistication, a hallmark of Celine's aesthetic. Historically, Celine has been known for its minimalist yet luxurious approach, often incorporating elements that add a touch of edge to their otherwise clean designs. Leopard print, with its timeless appeal, fits seamlessly into this vision. Throughout various collections, Celine has utilized leopard print to inject vibrancy and a sense of daring into its clothing and accessories. Under the creative leadership of Hedi Slimane, has continued to explore and expand on the use of this classic print. Slimane’s take on leopard print is more modern and rock-chic, often seen in his collections that draw inspiration from the rebellious youth culture. This is evident in not just the clothing but also in eyewear. 

Celine CL40216U 99A, Celine CL40291I 99A, Celine CL40187I 99A, Celine CL40238U 47A

Leopard print sunglasses have emerged as a standout element in Celine’s eyewear collection, embodying the perfect blend of luxury and contemporary edge. These sunglasses bring a vibrant touch to any look, aligning with the broader resurgence of leopard print in fashion. Celine’s commitment to this trend is further highlighted by the popularity of their leopard-patterned tweed jackets, which have captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. These jackets, featuring prominently in both runway shows and pop culture—such as in the latest season of "Emily in Paris"—underscore Celine's influence in making leopard print not just trendy but also a staple of modern chic.

Leopard Print Across Other Fashion Houses and Eyewear Brands

Dolce & Gabbana, the iconic Italian fashion house has a long-standing love affair with leopard print, which has become one of the brand's signature elements. The use of leopard print, introduced in the 1980s by Dolce & Gabbana is deeply rooted in their design philosophy, which often celebrates Italian culture, sensuality, and bold femininity.
In recent years, Dolce & Gabbana has continued to weave animal print into their trend-setting designs, with the pattern now featured prominently across their entire range, including their eyewear collection.

Similarly, Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, as Michael Kors expanded his brand, leopard print became a recurring motif for the American fashion house. The brand has embraced the print as a signature element, as we see it on everything from coats, to dresses, to handbags and also on eyewear designs.

The iconic print is seen on both these classic square eyewear styles from Dolce&Gabbana, and Michael Kors. 

 Dolce&Gabbana DG4449 3163/8G, Michael Kors San Marino MK2163 3917/73

In Jacquemus' most recent collections, particularly the Spring/Summer 2024 line, leopard print played a significant role in adding a bold yet refined touch to the overall aesthetic. This collection, presented in the picturesque French Riviera, leaned heavily into sculptural forms and 1980s-inspired designs. Jacquemus used leopard print sparingly but effectively, contrasting it with a primarily neutral color palette. This use of the print added a dynamic edge to the collection while maintaining the brand's characteristic elegance. The result was a collection that managed to be both avant-garde and wearable, appealing to a wide range of fashion enthusiasts.

Korean eyewear brand Projekt Produkt recently introduced leopard print into their sunglasses collection, drawing inspiration from a resurgence of cultural and fashion trends from the past. Their P'archive (PROJEKT PRODUKT Archive) series aims to blend a nostalgic appeal with a fresh perspective for younger audiences. This approach allows wearers to experience a sense of comfort and relaxation, offering a brief respite from the fast-paced reality of modern life while embracing a timeless and stylish look in eyewear.

 Jacquemus Jac 4 C2, Projekt Produkt GE CC1

A Subtle Nod to Animal Print 

If you're hesitant about diving into the bold world of animal print, there are subtler ways to incorporate the trend into your eyewear. Havana or tortoiseshell frames are an excellent choice for achieving a timeless, on-trend look with a subtle nod to leopard print. These patterns have long been a staple in eyewear fashion, offering a classic aesthetic that pairs well with almost any outfit. The rich, blended tones in tortoiseshell frames mimic the natural variability found in leopard prints, but in a more muted and sophisticated way. This makes them perfect for those who want to embrace the animal print trend without going all out, providing just enough flair to make a statement without overshadowing your overall look.

Miu Miu Regard MU 04ZS 19P2Z1, Saint Laurent SL 557 Shade 002, Prada PR 12WS 2AU8C1, Ray-Ban Justin RB 4165 710/13

As we look ahead to the autumn and winter seasons of 2024, it's clear that leopard print is not just a fleeting trend but a timeless pattern that continues to captivate the fashion world. From its rich history as a symbol of power and luxury to its modern-day reinterpretations on the runway, leopard print remains a versatile and bold choice for those looking to make a statement. This season, the trend has been embraced across various fashion houses, with brands like Celine leading the way in integrating leopard print into their iconic pieces.

Leopard print sunglasses, in particular, have become a must-have accessory, adding a vibrant touch to any look. Whether you opt for Celine's edgy, rock-chic styles or prefer a more understated approach with tortoiseshell frames, there's no shortage of ways to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe. These sunglasses offer the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to embrace the animal print trend in a stylish yet wearable way.

Au revoir, 
PRET A VOIR