Leopard Forever

For the last several seasons, the same scenario has been replaying itself over and over again. Just when it seems that the leopard print has taken its last breath in the fashion world, it stages a remarkable comeback in the collections. We may even have to validate the spotted fur's entry into the exclusive circle of fashion's timeless pieces definitively.

After several seasons of mutating in every direction, leopard is going back to its source by reconnecting with its original colors. The Technicolor variations of the recent 80s wave have disappeared, replaced by the authentic version, in total osmosis with the classical accent recently injected into the fashion atmosphere.

Leopard may be going natural, but it is still as capable as ever of bringing a touch of offbeat chic to an ensemble. In fact, over the years, leopard has become a recurring extravagance, similar to the liberty or polka dots.

It would have been a pity if leopard had suddenly disappeared from the fashion landscape, especially knowing that a good number of Helmut Lang-esque outfits will soon need it to soften their monastic strictness. It can give a savannah touch to the sensible Céline look, by complementing a minimalist silhouette with a pair of heels or gloves infused with the famous print.

As for the Dries Van Noten compositions, the new casual/smart look cannot afford to overlook the leopard print if it wants to be a part of the fashion feel of the moment. Navy blue will go very well with its bronze tints, and khaki will lose a bit of its army feel for an deliciously city-girl allure.

This kind of wardrobe is intended above all for the young woman well past 20, but this does not mean that leopard should be avoided by the adolescents. As a well-made fake fur jacket, a thin belt, a clutch or even as a pair of brogues, leopard mixes well with the 1950s Grease looks of the upcoming season (3/4 slim pants, kitten heels and Bordeaux round neck pullovers).

Shearling, whose fashion value is particularly high at the moment but a strong chance of seeing a sharp decline, should avoid associating with leopard pieces. The accumulation of trendy details on the same piece has a serious tendency to cheapen it.