Leopard, cheetah, jaguar: Why big cat prints never go out of fashion

Historically, animal skin was never just clothing — it was power, a status symbol. Leopard fur, in particular, symbolised dominance and virility, worn by kings, warriors, and hunters. By the mid-20th century, Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe turned leopard coats into markers of glamour and seduction. Later, designers such as Roberto Cavalli and Dolce & Gabbana made animal prints their signature, transforming them into iconic expressions of bold, fearless femininity.

Animal prints carry drama, sensuality, and just the right touch of rebellion. (Source: Freepik)

So, how do you tell them apart?

Leopard: Their rosettes form clusters resembling flowers, but without a central dot. This gives leopard print a sense of elegance and versatility, making it effortless to style — from dresses and skirts to handbags and shoes.

Cheetah: Simpler and sleeker, cheetah prints consist of solid black spots, evenly spaced on a golden-tan background. With their athletic, playful energy, they feel youthful and modern — perfect for blouses, tees, and athleisure.

Jaguar: The boldest of the three, jaguar rosettes are larger and more dramatic, each containing a central dot. Striking and intense, they are often reserved for statement pieces — dramatic coats, gowns, or red-carpet looks. 

Beyond the big cats, other animal motifs continue to roar on runways. Snakeskin and crocodile textures remain staples in luxury boots and handbags, zebra stripes offer a graphic monochrome edge, and even cow prints — once dismissed as kitsch — have found favour with Gen Z for their quirky, ironic appeal.

What has changed most is accessibility. Once symbols of exclusivity, animal prints are now everywhere. Fast fashion has democratised them, while social media shows how easily they can be styled. A leopard slip dress or cheetah-print sneakers are now just as easy to find on the high street as in designer boutiques.

And yet, despite their ubiquity, animal prints still retain an aura of glamour. Bold, expressive, and endlessly adaptable, they move seamlessly across generations. Whether worn as a subtle accessory or head-to-toe as a statement, leopard, cheetah, and jaguar prints continue to captivate. They let us channel a touch of wildness, confidence, and glamour — which is why they never truly go out of style.

The author is an intern with indianexpress.com 

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