How to style animal print like a fashion editor this winter – outfit ideas to look effortlessly trendy

There has never been an era in fashion when animal prints have not made an impact and as a classic motif that never goes out of style, it is definitely worth learning how to style animal prints to work with your fashion aesthetic. While animal prints are versatile enough to be worn all year round, you cannot deny that there is something seasonally stunning about throwing together an outfit with a statement animal print piece once autumn sets in and then all the way through winter.

So whether you have been inspired by your favourite celebrities wearing animal prints like Eve Myles’ style from The Guest or you just like the look of bold prints on accessories like zebra print on bags or leopard print trainers, here’s your ultimate guide to style animal prints for timeless looks that never go out of fashion.

Different types of animal print to try this season

While leopard print is undoubtedly reigning as the most popular pick of the lot, we are now seeing more and more of zebra, snake and cow prints on runways and the latest launches from our favourite brands, with the M&S autumn collection 2025 featuring some of the best snake prints on shoes, cow print bags and zebra print purses we’ve seen recently.

So, if you’ve been waiting for the latest trends and stylist-approved tips on how to style animal prints, we have handpicked the best animal print pieces from brands you love, paired with some expert styling advice on how to wear your favourite animal print trousers, jeans, skirts, tops, dresses and accessories to look effortlessly fashionable.

How to style animal print shirts and tops

On a mission to collate a selection of animal print inspired fashion looks you can always go back to, Yours Editor Claire Tapley teamed up with the fashion team to style several outfits and animal print tops, shirts and jumpers were our number one priority to work with. These pieces patterned with a bold print, often on a striking block colour makes for very versatile pieces that pairs well with a range of colours and styles. When styled with the right colours, fabrics and accessories, animal prints can work as chic casuals or elevated to occasion wear.

Animal prints paired with dark blue denim is a classic combo that never goes out of style. With colder days approaching, it is definitely worth investing in a stylish animal print jumper for your wardrobe. While it can be a casual outfit when paired with trainers, you can also elevate the look by pairing it with gold-toned accessories and boots or heels.

Alternatively, you can also pair animal print tops, shirts or jumpers with bright block colours like red, burgundy, blue or orange to create a statement look or go with neutral shades like browns, beiges and camel tones for a more classic style. You can also play around with textures like adding fur coats in neutral solid colours for a hint of drama, satins for more simple outfits or leather for a modern, chic style.

What to wear with animal print jeans

The idea of wearing animal print trousers or jeans can seem daunting at first for fear of not looking classy. But when paired with the right colours and styles, a bold pair of animal print jeans will make you look effortlessly fashionable. Don’t shy away from bright colours like reds, maroons and greens to make an impact with the look or you can also go with the neutrals like the whites, blacks or browns for a more understated style.

The principle is to keep the prints, patterns and textures on the other pieces you add with the animal print bottoms as minimalistic as possible. This will balance out the look and truly let the bottom half of your outfit do the talking.

How to style animal print skirts

Animal prints on skirts usually look the best in their original form and colour. So, if you are just beginning to experiment with animal print skirts, stick to the beiges, browns and blacks of the natural prints and play around with colour and fabric on the top half of your outfit. When it comes to styling animal print skirts, the same principle applies as that of animal print jeans. Bright colours add character to the look, while darker shades compliment the natural colours of the print creating a more seamless appearance.

If the cut of the skirt tends to be leaner rather than flared, adding jumpers that are fluffier, looser or with slightly dramatic sleeves helps balance the proportions. If you are wearing it with a top or a shirt, try to create the same effect by adding layers like cardigans or leather jackets. But you can also go for a sleek appearance with a thin top during warmer months.

How to style animal print dresses for women

Ever since designer Christian Dior first incorporated the use of animal prints on fabric to create the first animal print dress, the world has not looked back. The shift from only using real fur to get the look to being able to replicate the print on lighter fabrics led to the emergence of a trend that has since then attained the status of a wardrobe essential. A good animal print dress in a cut and fit that flatters your body type is a classic piece of clothing every woman should own.

While it creates the monochromatic look of full body print, you can play with colours, fabric transparency, layers and outerwear to break up the print or elevate the look to make it bolder. For the classic leopard print, gold toned accessories and black boots is a combo that never fails. However, there are several colour options to choose from if you want a break from the usual beiges and browns. Dresses are versatile pieces that can help you go for a stunning monochromatic look and also a dial down on the print with a jumper or cardigan on top when you want to. Matching the colour of your coat, bag and boots is another tip that will help make the look more cohesive.

How to style animal print accessories

When opting for animal print accessories like bags, purses, shoes or coats, always remember that those are the points of highlight. So, the idea is to let them shine and not add too many contrasting prints or colours to the mix, especially if we are talking about an animal print coat.

With some of the best trench coats and jackets we have seen this year flaunting animal prints on them, it is definitely an accessory that will easily elevate any outfit to create a chic and fashionable look. This also applies to animal print accessories like bags, purses and shoes as these are items that can instantly make an outfit look fashionable when paired with plain solid or neutral colours.

Akhila Thomas is a digital writer at Yours.co.uk and her areas of interest are beauty, fashion, food, wellness and lifestyle. She has previously written for magazines like Leftlion, Women’s Health and t’Art and worked extensively with art, culture, fashion and social media trends. She also likes to travel and explore new cultures and cuisines.