Red and Leopard, the best combo for a bold look

For my first article, it seemed natural to talk about the subject that inspired me to name this fashion blog “Rouge Leopard".

Over the years the leopard pattern has appeared and disappeared in the course of various trends, this year 2024 is no exception to the rule, the leopard is IN again!

LEOPARD, between strength, temper and courage.

But what is the symbolism of the leopard and why is it interesting to us?

A wild animal from Africa, the leopard is a "cautious feline with the qualities required of a chief holding traditional power, symbolising strength and power". This solitary, opportunistic feline isn't afraid to charge in and defend what belongs to it or what it wants.

In short, wearing a leopard print conveys an image of wildness, self-confidence and a strong, assertive character, as well as glamourous and seductive.

How leopard made its mark on fashion?

The leopard print trend has come and gone, but it's still very much part of our wardrobe nowadays, especially in 2024 with the actual tendencies, so we're going to look at how and why we still are so fond of this animal print and what colour is bringing this bold pattern to life.

Timeline #1: Leopard pattern through history

Zoom on the phenomenon #2: Leopard from head to toes?

All about vivid colours #3: Red animosity

---

Leopard through times #1: the leopard print timelessness

First coming into fashion in the 1920s, this strong motif has been the source of many meanings, sometimes perceived as chic, then as trashy as in the 90s and 2010, it could well be that the leopard pattern is now back in fashion, thanks in particular to the "Mob Wife aesthetic".

According to CAUSETTE, "the mob wife trend appropriates the codes of female characters from cult gangster films and advocates a fierce and flashy femininity". The key word here is OPULENCE. The leopard pattern is perfectly at home here, as dominant and passionate as the 'Mob Wife'.

At Fashion Week 2024, leopard was on show in all its forms: dresses, opulent furs, shoes, layering... Whether in a total look or just a touch, leopard is a big deal again this year.

ZOOM on the fashion phenomenon :#2: Leopard from head to toes?

Leopard have been seen everywhere lately and I know you've already seen it or even wore it!

The famous GANNI Leopard blouse that you can find for the damned sum of 195euros is so IN at the moment. Ganni offers a leopard blouse with puffed sleeves and bows on the front, a model that has been very popular over the last few months and has inspired a lot of other brands and dressmaker enthusiasts, but we'll talk about that in a future blog post on sewing your own clothes to pimp your wardrobe...

Accessories are also back in style, notably the banana bag, which is definitely back this year, like the famous one from RIVE DROITE that you can find for 70euros, also in leopard canvas. 

From sneakers to sandals and bobbies, not forgetting ballerinas and pumps, there's something for everyone, so you can be fierce right down to the tips of your toenails.

In short, whether you're as bold as a leopard and decide to wear a strong piece like trousers, a dress or a coat, or more timid and opt for an accessory like glasses, a scarf or shoes, leopard is back and could even take a permanent place in our wardrobes (much to my delight).

All about vivid colours#3: Red animosity

Although leopard can be worn with almost any colour, to me, the best colours are bold and vivid, which will stand out against this strong, assertive pattern.

For me, this colour has always been red. Because ”Red is the colour of danger and excitement, but also the very principle of life. Because beyond violence, red also evokes sexuality, passion and everything to do with living things”. In short, red appeals to strong, passionate emotions, which for me makes sense with the leopard motif, which also has this strong, assertive character.

Now tell me about you? Will you be going for the total leopard look like a Mob Wife, or will you be going for a more low-key look with a subtle but elegant touch of leopard? 

Don't hesitate to share your best looks and tips with me, and I'll share them in a future Roarriinngg article!

xx ROARRR