How to look super chic in animal print this summer
- Posted by
- Billie Bhatia
- Published

Hannah Lewis decodes how to style the trend for summer
Sassy, statement and fun. Animal print is back for s/s 2018 and it’s undergone an inspired update just in time for the warm weather. Whether you want to bring out old printed classics or you’re looking to invest in some of the new lust-worthy pieces dropping in stores at the moment, here’s how to wear it right now.
Back To Black
Head-to-toe black might not sound like a traditional summer look, but when you incorporate animal print, it oozes simplicity while remaining oh-so-chic. So now is your time to pair your animal print piece with black – whether it be a snake print jacket, cheetah print skirt or a classic leopard print heel. With the seal of approval from the likes of @theHautePursuit and @LucyWilliams, we’re sold.
Natural Tailoring
If you think animal prints are just for fun, think again. This season they’ve undergone an impeccably chic update and are now the perfect summer update to your workwear wardrobe. Opt for a subtly printed accessory and match the rest of your look with tailored neutrals, so the print doesn’t stand out but instead works as part of your outfit.
Colour Pop
If you’re a fashion-savvy dresser, you won’t want to go about your business quietly when wearing animal print. As seen recently at Australian Fashion Week, some of our favourite street stylers are donning leopard print with bold colours. Whether it be a bright red knit under souped-up tailoring with a leopard print bag, or a vibrant orange jumper peeping under a leopard mac. It’s go bold or go home for this look.
Casual Cool
One of the elements we love about a good animal print is it brings all the fun. So for an off-duty, casual vibe, team yours with a graphic T-shirt and white trainers. It’s key to go for a classic item in a classic print for this one, like Lucy William’s silk leopard print skirt. For the laid-back look, be sure to pare down the rest of your outfit.
The Retro Mini
This summer, we’re lusting over the snake print mini skirt, all thanks to Chloé’s s/s 2018 catwalk show. So if you’re taking your print ‘out out’ then do it in a mini skirt. The key to making this look cool and not cliche is to give the rest of your outfit a retro, vintage feel. Tonal layering is the best way to achieve this, be it a beige top and blazer or perhaps a cool blue vest and darker blue jacket.
Animal print convert? Shop our favourite pieces in stores right now…
Zara
Snake print dress, £69.99, Zara
Topshop
Snake print mules, £69, Topshop
& Other Stories
Tapered printed trousers, £69, & Other Stories
Mango
Snake effect boho bag, £49.99, Mango
Axel Arigato
Leopard print trainers, £165, Axel Arigato at net-a-porter.com
Uterqüe
Leopard print box bag, £120, Uterqüe
River Island
Snake print over the knee boots, £120, River Island
Altuzarra
Leopard print canvas mules, £595, Altuzarra at Matches Fashion
Images: Getty / Instagram