Photo courtesy of Flickr
Story by Sydney Wagner / Contributing writer
New York Fashion Week came to a close Friday, Feb. 16, following the presentations of various designers’ Fall/Winter 2018 collections. Everyone’s eyes were glued to these collections, and each piece was analyzed for upcoming trends. Among the dazzling display of garments, there was one trend that stood out pretty quickly: animal print. This isn’t the bright, artificially colored animal print from your middle school days, though. These prints were expertly incorporated into sophisticated designs. However, you don’t have to pay high-fashion prices to recreate these runway looks with pieces from your favorite stores. Here are some ways you can start wearing the trend before everyone else catches on this fall.
Adam Selman sent animal print down the runway on various mini-dresses. However, the most college student-friendly iteration was a sweater tucked into jeans paired with lace-up boots. Throw a denim jacket on top if you want to play down the bold print.
For those who prioritize sleep over style, you can rejoice. Juicy Couture is back and better than ever — tracksuits and all. A statement coat makes the classic sweats-and-sneakers combo effortlessly cool. Throw your hair up in a bun, add a pair of sunglasses and everyone will be envious of your chic leisure look.
Why go for another pair of black leggings when you can have zebra print leggings courtesy of Tom Ford? Take it a step further and try some zebra print pants (you know, the things with pockets). Let the print do all the talking by pairing it with a black top and pointed toe flats.
Australian brand Zimmermann took inspiration from the American West for its new collection, and nothing embodies the West more than a pair of snakeskin boots. Wear them year-round with a white T-shirt and black jeans. You get bonus points for distressed denim.
For a more subtle take on the previous trend, opt for a classic black snakeskin bag. There’s a few different ways to style a bag like this: On school days you could wear a crossbody over your backpack, and on the weekends you can simply wear it over your shoulder. No matter how you wear it, you’re going to be on trend.
Accessories can make or break an outfit. Just ask Michael Kors. A leopard-print belt is a simple way to spice up the business-casual dress code for a class presentation. Many designer brands, namely Gucci, offer beautiful leopard-print belts. If this is unaffordable for you, there are plenty of fake Gucci belts available for a much lower cost.
Naturally, animal print also showed up at the menswear shows, too. All a leopard-print jacket needs is a T-shirt, jeans and sneakers. A little too bold for your taste? Try some sleek snakeskin high-tops in a neutral shade to tone down the look.
Animal print is a trend that’s stood the test of time. You won’t have any problems finding pieces like these in your favorite stores. Go ahead and pick up a piece or two that catches your eye, and get ready for the compliments headed your way. Fashion Week runway shows in fashion capitals Milan, Paris and London are still underway, so keep an eye out for more of the animal print trend!
To contact Lifestyles Editor Tayhlor Stephenson, email lifestyles@mtsusidelines.com.
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