Leopard print. Cheugy or Trendy?

For many generations, the fashion world has seen the rise of many trends, from shoulder pads to chunky highlights. Eventually, we get sick of one trend and move on to another, and that's how the fashion industry functions. Recently, outdated trends have been coined with the term' cheugy'. But despite this, trends from generations ago always seem to return.

A main example of this is leopard print. This is a trend that seems to never leave us. Let's look back to see how it has evolved throughout the years.

Its popularity started back in the 20s and 30s, often worn by Hollywood stars, and eventually housewives and even flappers. This movement was powered by the likes of Christan Dior, producing clothing inspired by these Hollywood sweethearts.

The 50s led to another interpretation, fur coats. Wearing fur was a status symbol, but cat fur in particular was of the highest rank. Monroe was a particular icon who loved a leopard print coat.

The swinging 60's was truly when the print was made avalible to the public. Jean shrimpton and Jackie Kennedy paved the way for the inspiration in magazines. However, many cats were being killed in the process, and there came the production of the faux fur, after the protests on animal rights became a successful movement. The advantage of faux fur was the affordability, as well as quick production times.

The 80's was not just about leopard print, this was a time of experimentation. Therefore, tiger, cheetah and even giraffe print were being worn by men and women everywhere. From simple tank tops to fully printed dresses, animal print was the craze.

The 90s is the era many of us associate leopard print with, and it makes sense. The Spice Girls, Stephanie Seymour, and even Naomi Campbell were sporting it in photoshoots and music videos. However, this era brought a hint of gaudy alongside classy.

And this leads to today, designers have once again become obsessed with the print. From Adidas to CELINE, the line between classy and trashy is more blurred, but nonetheless, it is a print we all continue to love.

As Vogue says, Leopard print is now a neutral. So if you don't already own a cute cami or satin dress, pick one up and make any outfit party-ready.