Is Leopard Print the Ultimate Fashion Survivor?
Leopard print, one of fashion’s most daring yet enduring patterns, has a history of resurfacing through decades of style. From luxury runway shows to casual streetwear, leopard print has never disappeared. In a recent New York Times article, fashion journalist Vanessa Friedman asks if leopard print will ever go out of style. As we question the rise and fall of animal print in fashion, we’ll explore the historical and environmental impact of leopard print for the years to come.
Let’s rewind. Leopard print has technically been around much longer than anyone can grasp. Centuries ago, people began to use the pelts of the animals they killed for food as clothes. At first, it was practical. Over time, these pelts became a symbol of wealth and power, worn by royalty and African chiefs. Leopard print took on two key meanings: one of high status and the other of spiritual significance. By the 20th century, it had become a global fashion phenomenon.
The movie Tarzan the Apeman, which gained attention in the 1930s, led to the rise in demand for leopard prints. By 1947, Christian Dior cemented leopard print into modern fashion by featuring it in his debut collection. Reaching pinnacle success, household names like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jackie Kennedy, made leopard print a part of their signature looks, solidifying femininity and a respectful aura of power and wealth in the modern day. Since then, it has remained a staple in the fashion circuit.
Leopard print is everywhere today - whether on the streets of New York City or the runways of Paris, this pattern is integrated into our society. Its bold presence doesn’t only reflect fashion but is an everlasting symbol of power, confidence, and flamboyance. The symbolism of leopard print has stayed consistent throughout time - representing independence and the ability to transcend across multiple generations. Whether it's been seen as posh, classic, or rebellious, leopard print always finds a way to return in a new light.
For a moment, let’s take the fashion out of leopard print. What do you think about the use of animal print? Is it ethical? Is synthetic print ethical? Let’s find out. On the topic of conversation, the desire for leopard print is threatening to the wild leopard population. The high interest in the print may make the leopard population soar, but in the end, only for the animals to be killed. I believe it’s unethical. To protect wild leopards, designers must avoid using real pelts, despite the high demand for fashionable items.
Then it begs the question–Are synthetic leopard prints sustainable? Synthetic prints, known as faux fur, require a great amount of petroleum-based materials, derived from coal and natural gases, and intensive energy to make the final product. Turning these chemicals into synthetic polyester and acrylics contributes to the association of fast fashion, creating cheap materials that prioritize profit over the environment and animals.
In reality, neither option is truly ethical or sustainable. Using real pelts harms wildlife, while synthetic alternatives contribute to the decline of our environment. On the other hand, leopard print has never left the fashion scene and maybe it never will. As it symbolizes status and intrigue, designers and consumers are always wanting more. High demand often leads to ignorance, avoiding the risks and consequences of the targeted object. After reviewing the use of leopard print from ancient civilizations to the present day, will leopard print ever leave the fashion scene? Or will the repercussions of its use lead to the decline of leopard-styled pieces in general?
