This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Mia Aponte. Find her on Instagram at @mia.aponte. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
As we embark on a new year, there has been a re-emergence of the infamous cheetah print. Over the decades, cheetah print has been a prominent and enduring fashion trend that has made its mark on the fashion industry. This timeless and iconic print, inspired by the distinctive spots of a cheetah, has become a symbol of boldness and sophistication.
The print for some will always be synonymous with the femme fatale aesthetic. It can be styled a multitude of ways leaving a lasting imprint. For some, now all over social media it’s now even considered neutral print. However, this idea remains a debate for many people still; some see cheetah print as cringy and outdated, others see it as a timeless, prominent trend that continues to progress over the decades.
The origins of cheetah print in fashion can be traced back to the mid-20th century, with designers drawing inspiration from the patterns found in nature. What started as a niche and daring choice soon evolved into a mainstream symbol of confidence and glamor. From its early appearances in accessories to becoming a staple in clothing, cheetah print has undergone a fascinating evolution, adapting to changing fashion landscapes while retaining its inherent boldness.
For me in terms of my style, I would say cheetah print is incredibly versatile. Whether with clothing items like dresses, coats, or accessories such as handbags and shoes, the print seamlessly transitions from casual to formal settings. The ability of cheetah print has been able to elevate my outfits, adding a touch of fierceness and sophistication, by making a statement without saying anything at all.
Whether going to class, or going out on the town with friends, cheetah print has been able to help me elevate and stay true to how I want the world to portray me through my clothes. Regardless, now that it is considered trendy, I’ve always had cheetah print in my closet. It’s truly universal, it’s just about how you style it. So here are some of my personal do’s and don’ts when it comes to this particular print.
Cheetah print, when incorporated tastefully, can add a daring edge to any wardrobe. Try pairing cheetah print with neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the ensembles, using it as a statement piece, and experimenting with different textures and fabrics. Whether opting for a full-on cheetah print outfit or subtle accessories, there are myriad ways to embrace this trend while expressing individual style. For example, try adding a cheetah print jacket with a white t-shirt or jeans with sneakers. Or cheetah print pants with a black t-shirt or leather jacket. Keeping your color palette neutral allows the cheetah print to speak for itself.
My biggest tip with incorporating cheetah print in your wardrobe is to understand the concept that less is more. When adding a bold print like this, too much can make the print seem overwhelming. While cheetah print accessories can be chic, piling on too many can lead to accessorizing overload. Be bold with this print, but don’t go overboard. Pick one or two key pieces—be it a handbag, shoes, or a scarf—and let them take the spotlight without competing with each other. Also, mixing prints can be a fashion-forward move, but it requires finesse. Avoid clashing cheetah print with overly busy patterns. Choose complementary prints or solid colors to avoid a visually overwhelming look.
Overall, cheetah print’s recurring appeal in the world of fashion can be attributed to its ability to exude confidence, individuality, and a touch of wild elegance. As it continues to make its mark, this new year without exception this print is in style. It still remains a timeless and iconic choice for those who dare to embrace the wild side of fashion.
Is cheetah print in style? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
Leave a Reply