As leopard print makes its return to the fashion scene in 2024, I can't help but think of every it's appeared in. People may look at the kitschy print and think it was just a fad tied to the internet blip that was "mob wife aesthetic," but it's proven time and time again that it's here to stay. Upon my deep dive into the archives of Getty Images, I found the animal print in the '60s, '70s, '80s, '90s, and even in the early and mid '2000s. I first fell in love with the print by scrolling through Tumblr and hitting save on every Alexa Chung outfit that happened to pop on my screen. After looking back into the print's history, I think the '90s was the best time for it. The trend found fans in Princess Diana, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and fashion favourite Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. How can you not love that era?
Now that the revival is here, the market is filled with spotted skirts, coats, dresses, and even ballet flats. And while I'm interested in how people are styling them today, I can't stop looking back to the '90s for inspiration. After all, with the minimal approach to styling, you'll end up with a more timeless look rather than something you'll be tired of in a few months. Below, you'll find my favourite leopard-print moments of the '90s, from celebrities like Gwenyth Paltrow rocking casual looks on a red carpet to supermodels parading down a runway. If you're ready to make leopard print look effortless, keep scrolling.
How Celebrities Styled Leopard Print in the '90s:
Style Notes: Jennifer Anniston was spotted wearing this leopard-print bag on multiple occasions. Her looks were always simple, so it was clear the bag was meant to be the point of interest. Plus, if you love something, please wear it to your heart's content. Outfit repeaters are welcomed here.
Style Notes: I don't even need to know what Gwenyth Paltrow is wearing underneath the coat, because this outfit is perfection as-is. I've always bought solid-coloured jackets and coats, but this proves that with a statement coat like this, you don't need much styling to look put together.
Style Notes: Don't save that leopard-printed item for a special occasion, it'll end up collecting dust in your closet. Instead, take notes from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy who wore the print even on casual outings. Even with a simple formula like a turtleneck and jeans, you're left with flawless results.
Style Notes: Is it bad that I loved how celebrities used to dress casually to events? I love a couture moment, but you get more of a sense of their personal style here. I would never think to pair a leopard-print cardigan with shiny pants like this, but it looks great. And as many '90s outfits do, the look was finished off with patent black accessories.
Style Notes: The set design! The floor-length coat! The hairstyle! Of course, '90s Givenchy would get it all so right. With a statement piece like this, a black minimal dress like above will look best.
Style Notes: If I could copy and paste this entire Calvin Klein collection into my wardrobe, I would. Corporate grey contrasts so well with the loud print—something to take note of if you're also living the 9-to-5 life. Obviously, we can't wear a plunging CK dress to the office, so pairing spotted ballet flats or a belt with a pencil skirt would be the ideal way to go.
Shop Our Favourite Leopard-Print Items:
The easiest way to get into the trend is with chic accessories.
The best-selling cinch now comes in leopard print!
Leopard is just as versatile as any of the neutrals you have in your wardrobe.
Our editors love this coat.
An easy way to add some interest into a casual look.
Thrown on a satin top and a boxy blazer for a stylish evening look.
This is constantly selling out.
An elevated trouser you'll get plenty of wear out of.
A premium looking high street piece.
You'll wear these from now and well into next spring.
Trust me: this is the perfect elevated basic.
This also comes in a red, silver and gingham design.
These are bound to elevate every ensemble.
The perfect everyday dress.
Wear with any of your neutral knits.
Wear with chunky cashmere socks when the temperature drops.
All of our editors love this pair.
This can easily be taken from day-to-night.
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