No doubt, there are some trends that have their moment and then we never really see again, at least not in mainstream media. But more commonly, trends seem to ebb and flow through the trend cycle, modernizing with new generations and styles. One example that comes to mind is leopard print. Leopard print has never really gone completely out of style—it’s one of those trends that could now be considered a classic since it’s been around for so long. However, the animal print is having an especially major moment right now, making it one of the biggest trends of the year. But like any pattern or print, it can sometimes feel overwhelming figuring out how to style it. Luckily for you, we tapped a celebrity stylist for all her tips on how to wear leopard print—specifically for women over 40—and rounded up the best leopard print pieces to try for yourself.
Why leopard print works great for women over 40
While at the end of the day, your style and the trends you choose to partake in (or pass on) is completely personal preference regardless of age. However, we think there are some trends that women over 40 can especially participate in—and leopard print is one of them.
TK quote from Samantha Brown.
Leopard print is great for adding dimension to an outfit, which can help define curves and your shape. Sometimes, depending on the piece, solid colors can disguise our curves, rather than accentuate them.
Further, leopard print is great because it can be considered a neutral. We know, you’re probably wondering how a pattern could fall into the neutral category, but trust us. First of all, leopard patterns are most commonly made of browns, tans and blacks, all neutral shades. This color palette makes it easy to pair with just about any color. While yes, leopard print allows you to make a statement with your outfit, it’s not considered a pop of color.
Leopard print vs cheetah print
Anna, this KW has really good stats so let’s add 2-3 quick sentences about the differences and maybe you can do side by side photos of the two different prints.
21 best leopard print outfits for women over 40
Keep reading for the best leopard print pieces from cardigans to shoes and skirts.
Chico’s Leopard Print Bow Blouse
A leopard print blouse is a staple to add to your closet, as it’s truly such a versatile piece. Pair it with slacks or a pencil skirt for the office, or jeans for a more casual look. We like the delicacy of Chico’s Leopard Print Bow Blouse and how lightweight it feels on.
H&M Asymmetric Midi Skirt
We love a midi skirt as much as the next, and H&M Asymmetric Midi Skirt is one of our favorite leopard print midis. The asymmetric style adds visual interest, and adds a touch of flair. As far as shoes, it works well with your favorite heels, ballet flats or boots.
Mango Leopard-Print Dress With Ruffled Details
A dress with side ruching, like Mango Leopard-Print Dress With Ruffled Details, is ultra-flattering and drapes beautifully on the body. We like the long length of this pick, making it easy to wear to the office with a simple black blazer.
Zara Faux Fur Animal Print Coat
Everyone could use a faux fur coat in their closet for the season! It’s such a fun way to dress up any outfit and add extra pizzazz. Zara Faux Fur Animal Print Coat is so warm and cozy, and has hidden pockets to keep hands warm.
Loft Side Zip Ankle Flare Pants
Swap out your standard denim for leopard print pants! Loft Side Zip Ankle Flare Pants look good on everyone, thanks to the form-fitting-meets-flare style. They’re a pull-on style, making them a breeze to slip on and head out the door.
Lane Bryant Faux-Wrap Jersey Dress
Wrap style dresses like Lane Bryant Faux-Wrap Jersey Dress are so chic and comfortable. This pick is available in plus sizing, and feels oh-so-soft on.
Petal and Pup Fleetwood Blouse
The sleeves on Petal and Pup Fleetwood Blouse are so fun and spices up any outfit instantly. It’s lightweight and breezy, great if you tend to suffer from getting warm or dealing with hot flashes throughout the day.
Lulus Wildly Poised Beige Faded Leopard Print Wide-Leg Jeans
If you want to switch up the typical brown and black leopard print, try gray and beige! Lulus Wildly Poised Beige Faded Leopard Print Wide-Leg Jeans stand out from the standard leopard print, but still go with almost anything. The wide leg style makes for easy mobility and a non-restricting feel.
Pilcro The Weston Denim Boyfriend Jacket: Leopard Collar Edition
Spice up the typical jean jacket with a leopard collar denim jacket! We’re obsessed with Pilcro The Weston Denim Boyfriend Jacket: Leopard Collar Edition. It’s a great way to incorporate leopard print subtly, meaning you won’t have to worry about it looking overwhelming.
White House Black Market Pleated Leopard Print Skirt
Another skirt option, White House Black Market Pleated Leopard Print Skirt is so chic and comfy with its elastic waistband. Just add a skinny belt, like in the photo, for extra flair that also accentuates the waist.
Aerie Off-Duty Flannel Shirt
What’s better for fall than a flannel? And even more, a leopard print flannel! Aerie Off-Duty Flannel Shirt feels like you’re wearing pajamas but can be worn out of the house as a top layer over a simple solid black tee.
Express Leopard Print V-Neck Sweater
A cute and casual pick, Express Leopard Print V-Neck Sweater looks great with your favorite pair of jeans. It’s cozy and warm, and will make you look like you put a lot of effort into your outfit—even when you didn’t!
Intempo Long Boyfriend Blazer
Take your office outfit from drab to fab with a leopard print blazer like Intempo Long Boyfriend Blazer. Pair over your favorite black or brown blouse, and wear it with slacks. And with this good of a price, you can’t beat it.
Gap Satin Square-Neck Top
Leopard and satin contrast beautifully together, as you can see with Gap Satin Square-Neck Top. It’s elegant and interesting, and we love the subtle keyhole accent.
Abercrombie and Fitch Leopard LuxeLoft Short-Sleeve Cardigan
A short sleeve cardigan like Abercrombie and Fitch Leopard LuxeLoft Short-Sleeve Cardigan is perfect for those warmer fall days where you want a little warmth but nothing too heavy. The material is unbelievably soft and comfortable, and you can wear it open or closed.
Boohoo Leopard Crinkle Chiffon Angel Sleeve Maxi Dress
Looking for a more formal leopard print dress? Try Boohoo Leopard Crinkle Chiffon Angel Sleeve Maxi Dress. The flutter sleeves offer a bit of coverage that’s still breezy and lightweight, and the ruffle hem is gorgeous.
Franco Sarto Matera Sneaker
Step up your shoe game with leopard print sneakers like Franco Sarto Matera Sneaker. It’s another subtle way to incorporate the trend into your outfit, and this pair is ultra comfortable.
H&M Jacquard-Weave Shopper
Tote all the essentials (and more) with this roomy H&M Jacquard-Weave Shopper. The gray leopard print is so chic, and the material is thick without feeling heavy.
New York & Company Patricia Ballet Flats
Two trends we can get behind for fall? Leopard print and ballet flats. The subtle bow detail on New York & Company Patricia Ballet Flats adds a touch of feminine flair, and we love the square toe.
Chico’s No Droop Leopard Drop Earrings
Earrings that don’t make our earlobes droop? Sign us up! Chico’s No Droop Leopard Drop Earrings are especially made to help prevent drooping while looking fabulous.
Old Navy Fringed Scarf
Bundle up this winter with Old Navy Fringed Scarf, the perfect finishing touch to your winter coat. The faded leopard print makes it look luxe while costing just $20.
