Look hot and wild

Animal prints have made a huge comeback to the fashion circuit, says Shama Rana

FROM international fashionistas to Bollywood hotties, here is a style that like polka dots is proving to be a staple in the fashion scene. Safari trends, aka animal prints, have leaped from the jungle on to the streets. Animal motifs have rocked the catwalks, too. From dresses, coats, jackets, skirts, gloves, pants, shoes, scarves, knickers to handbags and other accessories, everything is stripes and spots. Animal prints have made a huge comeback to the fashion circuit and their popularity is only growing stronger. They can look as graceful as a tigress or can be as fiery as a leopard. It all depends on how you wear it.

One accessory at a time works well with animal prints
One accessory at a time works well with animal prints Photo: Reuters

The most important thumb rule with animal prints has always been to keep it minimal and let the rest of your outfit be simple. In other words, use animal prints sparingly. Animal prints work best with neutral shades such as beige, black, coffee bean brown and white. Not just that but leather dappled with black and white zebra stripes, mustard and copper leopard patterns and even shiny snake-scales can be your best style bet.

Fashion designer Surily Goel’s western wear collection at the fashion extravaganza, Blenders Pride Collection, was inspired from the theme of Jungle Safari. Her collection was about a chic look experimented with subtle colours and khakhis, beiges, the subtle and more sober tones. Designer Neeta Bhargava’s hand-painted couture collection at Wills fashion show was inspired by "Save the Tiger" campaign and could be termed as style with conscience.

Animal prints, stripes, butterfly designs and psychedelic designs are the current rage on the runway. The more conservative ones can also try the animal prints on salwar suits. Animal prints designer saris are also in demand nowadays. This combination gives a cool western look soaked in tradition.

Try to stay way from an overdose of accessories such as bracelets, necklaces or rings if you are donning a total animal print look. One accessory at a time works well with animal prints. You can go in for animal printed shoes, a scarf, a belt, hat, gloves, muffs, cute kitten heels or a structured bag. Dark yellow stole with fringes and animal print looks gorgeous to match your every outfit.

Choose animal prints taking into consideration your vital stats and body contours. Smaller animal prints flatter you the most, if you happen to be petite. While larger prints are meant for a rather full figure. If properly worn and tastefully paired, it can add style quotient to any look. Complement animal print look with bold solid colours like green, navy, purple, yellow etc. Black leather and fur pieces are perfect to pair with this look.

Designer Siya Anand says: "Less is certainly more when it comes to animal print like a top to go with your pants or you can choose animal printed peep-toe shoes to rock this trend. The key is not to overdo it. Go in for leopard, zebra or python prints to accentuate your style. Leopard prints spice up your outfit, giving you a sensual and seductive look. The brown and black colour of this print allows you to mix and match a set of coloured outfits to create one that defines your true style." That zebra print creates a black and white colour combination, which looks timeless and suitable for all reasons and seasons.

Snake skin prints manage to create a mysterious, yet attractive look. Choose from snake print dresses to boots to accessories to make the fashion statement loud and clear.

Go ahead and show your ferocious feline side as this stylish, funky style is here for the long haul. Animal prints are expected to stick around through spring 2011 and even into summers. Apart from outfits, a lot of animal-inspired jewellery and printed hair accessories are doing the rounds. Use your favourite animal-inspired accessories to complement a solid coloured outfit.





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