Typically, fall and winter fashion leans heavily on solid colors in rich, classic neutrals like camel, grey, burgundy, and chocolate brown. However, this season, there’s a standout pattern making waves: leopard print.
While animal prints, including python, cowhide, and cheetah, have remained a staple, recent data from shopping platform LTK indicates that searches for leopard print items have surged by 556% since August. It appears the fashion community has wholeheartedly adopted the idea—echoing Janice from “Friends”—that leopard print can indeed be a neutral.
Leopard print is one of the few timeless patterns that effortlessly conveys both elegance and a hint of rebellion, which might explain its resurgence among designers. Renowned brands like Alaïa, Dior, and Norma Kamali have incorporated this print into their collections for decades, while others such as Saint Laurent, Roberto Cavalli, and Ganni have made it an integral part of their identity. New Spring 2025 collections from Jacquemus, Zimmermann, and Prada confirm that leopard print is hotter than ever and shows no signs of fading as spring approaches.
With fashion’s current fascination with all things vintage, the leopard trend is favoring retro styles, including Penny Lane coats, T-strap heels, and fur handbags. LTK has reported a remarkable 631% increase in searches for leopard print pants over the past two months, with popular denim options available from brands like Damson Madder, Lioness, and Madewell.
Leopard and cheetah print party dresses (noting that cheetah features solid black spots while leopard spots have brown centers) are set to be a holiday favorite. Whether you opt for a chic cocktail dress—like the mini frock loved by Emily Ratajkowski from Rumored—or a sleek gown for formal occasions (check out Laura Harrier’s collaboration with Reformation), these prints are bound to make a statement this season.