Let's Talk Leopard Coats

Today, we’re talking all about how to style faux leopard (yes, I just said leopard) coats. And, let me just start by saying, WHO AM I? If you know me, you know that simplistic style is at my core. However, the minute I tried on this fitted, sleek coat, something in my bones said I had to buy it.

Now, all of you know neutrals are the way to my heart when it comes to fashion. So, it may be no surprise to some that the only printed coat I own is leopard — a perfect blend of tans and blacks. But, you guys, for me this is BIG. I often feel most myself in understated pieces that accidentally, but intentionally catch your eye. Whereas this…how could anyone blend in with this? Well, the short answer is, they can’t. And part of me kind of loves that I now own an iconic piece that allows me to stand out.

So, I am HERE to give you the confidence boost you need to realize that anyone, including those of us that identify with the most simplistic styles, can make a leopard coat work.

Now, the biggest piece of advice I can offer is to buy a coat that looks high quality. I had leopard on my mind for a while, but most coats I browsed were a bit too “out there” for my taste. I personally think a fitted option is your best bet, and I recommend seeking out an option with hues of brown, tan, or grey as opposed to brighter yellows or oranges. I serendipitously found mine at Marshalls and, unfortunately, can’t find the exact option online since I think it's discontinued. However, I’ve searched high and low for a few similar options if you’re in the market for one of these bold statement pieces. This one is probably the most similar fit to mine, although the color is more grey — another option I absolutely love. Two more greyish options include this one from Old Navy (on major sale!) and this one from Banana Republic. This one from Nordstrom Rack is a blazer-coat hybrid.

However, I’ll admit, even when I was purchasing this coat, I kept thinking to myself, “how am I going to pull this off?”. I knew I would have to be really thoughtful in whatever outfit I planned this piece around. The last thing I wanted was to come across tacky or feeling like I overdid it. But, there’s definitely a way to absolutely nail it if you wear the right outfit. I have some tips to help you do just that.

So, maybe at no surprise, I recommend you wear all black when it comes to this coat and to keep the other items you wear as simple as possible. All black does not mean the rest of your outfit needs to be boring — in fact, quite the opposite. Wearing all black is another subtle way to stand out, and exuuuuude class. So, even after you take off this bold statement piece, your outfit, and you, will radiate.

This particular coat is quite tight in the sleeves, so I opted for a fitted black turtle neck. However, you can really play with a variety of tops. A simple black blouse — even one with simple detailing — would work great with this coat.

Now, I know I’m about to simultaneously reveal my age and invoke controversy, but I LOVE skinny jeans. I recently splurged and bought myself this pair from Madewell for my birthday. You’d have to pay me to stop wearing them (which, ok, yes this is negotiable if anyone is in the market).

Lastly, I swear by these Steve Madden black booties. They are my go-to shoe anytime I want to feel both dressed up and casual. Unfortunately, they’re sold out. However, I found a few very similar options, including this Steve Madden bootie and this classic Chelsea bootie. Do yourself a favor and invest in one of these.

So, did I convince you? Are you going to join my leopard coat pack?