Nothing is more contentious among my clients than animal print.

Depending on the client, animal print can evoke associations with Kate Moss or Audrey Hepburn, or with Pat Butcher and a New Jersey Housewife.

But regardless of which camp you sit in, animal print has been an essential part of fashion for decades—from Audrey Hepburn in the ’60s to Dries Van Noten’s snake print Spring 2025 catwalk looks.

So, whether a client asks me, “Can I still wear my leopard print trousers?” or “Is snake print passé?” my answer is always the same:

If you love something, you make the rules.

When you wear something that feels inherently you and is deeply rooted in your personal style, you will wear it with authenticity, ease, and confidence.

Animal print’s versatility lies in its ability to transcend both statement and neutral.

Thanks to its colour palette of browns, camels, greys, blacks, and whites, it can be manipulated to reflect your mood.

Play it down

• By pairing animal print with denim and a cashmere jumper in neutral tones like camels, chocolates, and greys. The animal print will do the heavy lifting, adding texture to an otherwise tonal look. Right now, animal print coats and shoes (though not necessarily worn together) are a major focus.

Play it up

• By mixing prints. Take a cue from the runways and go for a full animal print look—just vary the scale of the prints. You can also wear animal prints with brights to really make a statement.

But here’s the thing: I don’t make the rules… you do.

And with it being the Year of the Snake, I can’t think of a better time to embrace this classic print.

In the Chinese zodiac, Snakes are associated with transformation, resilience, and luck… you had me at transformation.

As I’m on the hunt for a pair of snake skin sandals, I’m sharing my selection of snake print items here.

Have a great week,

Penny

P.S. Transforming your style doesn’t mean starting from scratch or looking like you’ve had a lobotomy.

It’s a subtle, nuanced evolution—and my stylists and I know a lot about that.

Book your complimentary transformation call today.

Image from Moda Operandi