Trend Rewind: The Spotted History of Leopard Print

Leopard print is back—again. Here’s a look at the trend’s polarizing history, and why we’re wearing it today.

“If you’re fair and sweet, don’t wear it,” proclaimed Christian Dior after the debut of his 1947 “New Look” collection, famously the first collection by any designer to feature leopard print on the runway. Unveiled in the wake of post-World War II recovery, Dior’s bold pattern choice was intended to usher in a new era of women’s fashion—one of opulence, conspicuity, and liberation to counter the utilitarian attitude of the war years. But this spotted new look came with an asterisk, intended for women with “a kind of femininity that is a little bit sophisticated.” In other words, it wasn’t to be worn by everyone.

But seven decades later, it appears women are paying little mind to Dior’s careful warning. The contentious pattern is currently one of the most ubiquitous trends in the fashion landscape, crowding designer runways and e-commerce boutiques alike. You can find it printed on everything—from coats, hats, and scarves to belts, shoes, tights, and headbands.

This is not the first time we’ve seen leopard print burst into popularity after an extended hiatus. In the decades proceeding Dior’s debut, the trend took on a life of its own, erratically pinballing along the cultural spectrum between “classy” and “trashy.” The look appeared on a diverse mix of cultural figures, both real and imagined, from former first lady Jackie Kennedy to notorious pin-up model Bettie Page to female antagonist Mrs. Robinson from “The Graduate.”

provided by Appassionata 2.0

“Trends really do tell us a big picture of what’s going on in society,” says Kathryn Reiley, a fashion history expert and professor at University of Minnesota’s College of Design. “At times when women are fighting for certain rights, you tend to see animal prints come back into fashion.”

Indeed, many people see leopard print as a wearable bid toward boldness and visibility, proclaiming what fashion history researcher Jo Weldon believes to be a decisive message: “I will be seen, and I am not prey.” Emerging at the height of last year’s quiet luxury trend, a look that promotes neutral tones and understated elegance, leopard print’s popularity feels like a direct rejection of minimalism, building upon the commentary provided by Dior’s collection over 70 years ago.

But simultaneously, remnants of quiet luxury remain, as women experiment with subtle incorporations of the print into neutral-driven ensembles. In this sense, the pattern is slowly breaking free from the historical contexts that bind it, and morphing into what may have been Dior’s greatest fear all along: its own neutral.

Shop the Look

Local vintage store Appassionata 2.0 has been collecting leopard print for over two decades, and is excited to see the trend gaining traction in 2025.

“Leopard print feels like a confidence boost every time I wear it. It is encouraging to see others joining in and embracing wilder garment choices,” comments shop owner, “V.” Shop Appassionata 2.0’s vast collection of leopard print online, or at Minneapolis Vintage Market’s monthly events.

Provided by Appassionata 2.0

The Highest Endorsement

It is a well-known fact that hometown hero Prince was a bold experimenter when it came to fashion. Through the course of his 40-plus year career, there is only one thing he never changed—his leopard print guitar strap. Some call it superstition, and others, an embodiment of his free spirit, but even as the trend cycled in and out of popularity, Prince stood firm. 

Photo by Jeff Kravitz

As Minnesota Monthly's Style Editor, Emma keeps a close pulse on all things retail, style, and fashion in the Twin Cities and beyond. Since graduating from Miami University in 2022 with degrees in English Literature and Media and Culture, Emma has accumulated a wealth of experience in both the editorial and fashion industries, including producing a soldout runway show for Fashion Week Minnesota. She harnesses this experience, as well as her passion for storytelling, to communicate the diverse perspectives of individuals who have helped shape the Minnesota fashion scene and its one-of-a-kind events, brands, and businesses. When she is not writing, you might find Emma at a yoga class, thrifting, walking her Bernese Mountain Dog, traveling, or drinking overpriced coffee. You will never see her in the same outfit twice.