Leopard print is everywhere and has had different peaks in popularity over the years with many people changing their opinion on whether the trend is tacky or chic. It’s always been related to fun and versatility, as there are many ways that people can utilise leopard print to create unique styles that make you stand out from the rest. When it comes to fashion, people can wear jackets, pants or boots with leopard print, as well as many other clothing types so your choices aren’t limited.
It’s not just the world of fashion that has indulged in leopard print, as interior designers also use the style within their decor as somewhat of a secret weapon to add a punch of flavour to the aesthetic of a room. For example, laying out a variety of different leopard print luxury throws around your home can inject more energy into your interior design. It’s equally as common in both industries, so it’s important to take a look at both of these.
This article will delve into the world of leopard print leisure to determine whether it is tacky or has come full circle again to be considered a chic stylistic choice for both fashion and home decor. Continue reading to find out more.
What Does Leopard Print Represent?
Leopard print grew in popularity following the 1960s obsession with leopard skin fashion, as it allowed people to indulge in the leopard style without the slaughter of rare animals. During its first rise to glory, leopard print was a symbol of wealth, power, and sophistication, but its popularity has been a rollercoaster ride ever since, with varying peaks and troughs.
Depending on the way it is worn and the pieces of clothing, it can signify independence, confidence and nonconformity in women as well as being adding a level of sexuality to a dress code. While men are less likely to wear leopard print fashion, it is still seen now and again with it being a great way to make a statement and create shock value.
With interior design, leopard prints can be used in a large variety of ways as they come in many different colours like orange, blue, green, white and more. This helps it match whatever aesthetic you are looking to achieve in your home, which is why it has become such a popular choice. Within the home, it can be used to create purposeful tackiness as it can individualise a room or in a classy way to show prestige or elegance. It all depends on how it’s used.
Is Leopard Print Tacky or Chic?
After reaching peak popularity in the 1960s, leopard print suffered somewhat of a decline over the next few decades with fewer people using it in their home design or having it in their wardrobe. This is due to it becoming tacky in many people’s minds. However, searches for “leopard print” increased 170% year-on-year from 2023 to 2024, and searches for “leopard print coat” increased 380% between July and October 2024. This shows that leopard print is having a revival in the modern era and is now on the precipice of moving out of the tacky tagline and moving into chic.
How to Use Leopard Print at Home to Achieve a Chic Aesthetic
Rugs
You can add a lot of character to your home with the inclusion of rugs, especially if you choose one that is bold yet compliments and doesn’t overwhelm you. Neutral leopard print rugs are perfect for this, as they are elegant and fun without being overbearing like a regular leopard print rug will be.
Upholster Furniture
Adding little bursts of leopard print into your home is the best way to drive away from tacky and achieve a chic look. Upholster furniture can be the perfect candidate for leopard print, such as a chair, ottoman pouffe or recliners. These can add a subtle burst of flavour to any room if they are combined with leopard print.
Feature Wall
Maximalist designers will thrive off leopard print design, as it can add beautiful texture to a home that isn’t easily found with other stylings. Having an entire feature wall of leopard print can be an amazing feature to include in your home that won’t come across as tacky. For example, having it as the backdrop to your bed when remodelling your bedroom can make the space feel more elegant.
Soft Furnishings
Leopard print serving as an accent in a room rather than being the main point of focus, can be the best way of turning tacky into chic. Having soft furnishings dotted around your home that give a space extra character can add a high level of visual interest. Cushions and other small decorative items in your living room can be very elegant when in the leopard print style.
Pair with Pink Hues
The best colour to pair with leopard print in pink, especially certain hues of pink. For example, a leopard print sofa can be paired with a soft pink to add an elegant addition to the space that really makes a space come to life. Doing this can also create a sense of luxury within the home, especially for spring interior design.
