The Rise of Cheetah

Ava Edwards

Blog Post #1

A print that has often been associated with early millennial fashion and ties to shows such as the Jersey Shore, leopard print has slowly been creeping back into our closets, but this time unironically. With brands such as Balenciaga bringing it back to the runway and fashion icons like Bella Hadid and Emrata stepping out in the print, leopard is projected to make a striking comeback this fall. 

In the 1930s, fashion designers like Christian Dior restructured the use of leopard print, featuring it in many old Hollywood movies, making it a glamorous, bold, sexy and luxurious print. And later on would become a staple in many designers' collections throughout decades, to symbolize strength and even wealth. But something seemed to shift in the early 2000s. What once was haute couture seemed to deplete to un-interesting and “not-fashionable” tacky pieces. The mass and over-production of the print seemed to make it lose its fashion value in the public eye. Many of us probably ditched or diverted away from the print and were not interested in it being a part of our wardrobes. However, this fall, many of us, including designers such as Etro and Norma Kamali, celebrities, and influencers are celebrating the print and are not shying away from it. Leopard print boots, denim jackets, pants, you name it, this print has been in the course for a comeback. It’s dark color palette and versatility make it an elevated staple for a fall wardrobe. Dress it up or down, leopard print is here to stay.