GET SPOTTED

A few years ago, I received a faux leopard coat for Christmas.  I was instantly obsessed!  Leopard belts, jewelry, shirts, shoes, handbags, and coats…I could not get enough of this playful print.

A longtime favorite of designers, celebrities, and the public, this print has made quite an impact over the years.  Beginning as a symbol of status and wealth, leopard print was a favorite among Christian Dior’s muse Mitzah Bricard. 

In addition to leopard’s influence on the world of fashion, this print has played a significant role in interior design. Similar to zebra print, leopard adds an exotic and graphic element to any room.  Albert Hadley, a well-known American interior designer, was an avid fan of Rose Cumming's leopard print linen.  Hadley was known for his daring designs, which often featured combinations of classic and contemporary themes.  Furthermore, Hadley and other designers promoted the use of the leopard pattern in interior design, allowing its popularity to grow. 

Today many well known designers, including Mary McDonald and Bunny Williams, have used this exotic print, and consequently leopard made yet another appearance on the Fall/Winter runway.  This versatile pattern has been reworked in various colors and textures, lending itself as a perfect addition to any scheme.  The leopard pattern is classic and edgy, establishing it as a design that will stand the test of time.  

Image by Olivia Pearson