Leopard print has a long history in fashion. The print first rose to prominence in the 1920s, championed by designers like Christian Dior and Lanvin, and has remained an important part of the fashion world ever since. Over the years, leopard print has been seen to exude a coquettish air, as on Jackie Kennedy in the 1960s, and a rock and roll vibe, as on Debbie Harry. Leopard print’s versatility is chameleon-like, and many in the industry consider it to be a neutral.
In more recent fashion history, New York experienced the Summer of the Leopard Skirt in 2019. What began as a popular satin style from Réalisation Par soon turned into a tsunami of leopard midi skirts. The ubiquity of the style made many uncomfortable. I vowed to retire the leopard skirt for good. But like many dead fashion trends, five years later, the style feels all new again.
Vogue’s Favorite Leopard Skirt
Leopard skirts have started to make a comeback on the 2024 runways. We saw them at Peter Mueller’s chic Alaïa show and as matching leopard sets at Prada and Celine. Oscar de la Renta put a twist on leopard with a voluminous maxi length, and Totem showed off a sleek ponytail style. While I might not be ready to wear a satin midi skirt just yet (or ever again), it’s clear that there are plenty of new ways to wear a leopard skirt this summer and into fall. Check out our styling guide below.
Leopard and leopard
Take inspiration from Hedi Slimane’s rockabilly-chic aesthetic by teaming a micro-mini leopard print set with a simple t-shirt, preppy loafers and crumpled white socks.
Tone it down
You can play up Toteme’s minimalist leopard print look by pairing it with a simple white tank top and sleek black accessories.
Girlish charm
Pair your Alaia leopard print mini with girly pieces like a soft sweater set, T-strap kitten heels, and cat-eye frames.
Earth Animals
The soft maxi silhouette of this leopard print skirt from Massimo Dutti pairs well with more subtle pieces like an oversized sweater, quilted leather bag, and flat sandals.
Leopard Academy
Preppy accents will tone down the leopard print: Pair your mini skirt with stripes, pearls and sporty sandals.
The more the better
Pair a leopard print maxi skirt with sneakers, a voluminous top and, of course, a hair bow to channel your inner Copenhagen cool girl.
