Leopard print is making the comeback it deserves

The Spring/Summer '25 fashion weeks have long ended, but they've certainly left us brimming with inspiration. We saw emerging trends rule the ramp while we secretly rooted for the ones that made a comeback, giving us fashion goals with a side of nostalgia. There were several elements such as stripes, fringe, skinny pants, flannel shirts, and boots that made a comeback. But the most popular one among them, both on the runway and on social media, is the leopard print. 

Recently, Hailey Bieber stepped out wearing a single-breasted leopard-printed leather coat, paired with jeans, a black t-shirt, and a leopard-print tote bag from Saint Laurent to match her coat. Dua Lipa too has been seen embracing the trend with her chic leopard-print corset. We have also spotted the print in collections across brands like Alaïa, Bottega Veneta, and Totême. The versatility of this print is what makes it so iconic and stylish—it could be a jacket, a top, or even adorned as accessories like bags and shoes. 

But this isn't the first time that leopard print has come back. We say iconic because, in the early 1940s and '50s, style legends like Marilyn Monroe and Joan Crawford were seen wearing it as if it were their own skin; it looked almost seamless. They were, perhaps, the ones that set the tone for this timeless trend. But the history of leopard print goes even further back. In ancient Egypt and Rome, for example, high-ranking officials and royalty sometimes wore leopard skins, often made from real leopard pelts, as a symbol of wealth, power, and prestige.

Christian Dior’s debut collection in 1947, inspired by the exotic allure of the jungle, featured the leopard print extensively on silk dresses, flowing capes, and elegant evening gowns. This collection is often credited with introducing the world to its first leopard print dress. Soon after, designers like Versace, Roberto Cavalli, Givenchy, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and more adopted the pattern as well. By the 1970s, the leopard print became a sensation in pop culture and was often used to express an occasionally rebellious, sensual, and punk style. Artists like Marc Bolan, David Bowie, and Bob Dylan can be credited for the print's punk reputation. These rockstars harnessed the bold patterns to express their individuality and stand out.

Soon after leopard print began synonymous with the gritty edge of punk rock, mostly for its untamed energy. We believe the print's popularity also stems from its ability to allow people to express themselves through their fashion choices. It has been embraced by everyone—from runway models and actors, to journalists, directors, drag queens, and pop singers—you name it!

Every time we assumed the print was done with, it made a striking comeback—be it Rihanna showing up in a full leopard print look, Kendall Jenner getting papped in a leopard print jacket, or Kate Moss attending Paris Fashion Week in her classic leopard print jacket. What we know is that this is a part of fashion that is possibly never going to lose its statement and it is for all the right reasons!

Here, we have picked a few options for you, that will definitely help you embrace (and ace) the trend. 

Dolce & Gabbana Leopard-print faux fur coat, ₹1,92,946

Just Cavalli leopard-print tote bag, ₹33,545 approx.

Kate Spade Modern Leopard Tie-Neck Shirt, ₹23,500

Gianvito Rossi Carla leopard-pattern ballerina shoes, ₹70,199 approx.

Dolce & Gabbana Leopard Print Camisole Top, ₹1,31,000 

 

Versace Leopard Slice Knee-High Boots, ₹3,59,500

Lead image credit: Neil Mockford / Contributor

Body images: The brands 

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