Animal print has moved past a trend and landed squarely as classic style that never goes out of fashion. Somehow, my closet was missing a pair of leopard print pants. The most practical option for me is a denim pants in leopard print. Enter the J.Crew Toothpick Jean in Leopard Dot. They are the perfect option. The rise is 9″, which isn’t too high for this short-waisted girl, and the denim has the perfect amount of stretch because a side effect of quarantine is I will likely never wear uncomfortable pants again.
J.Crew’s stretch denim is a customer favorite because it holds its shapes and remains comfortable all day. The inseam is 28″ which is a perfect slight crop for us tall girls. The print is so popular they made several items in leopard dot, including a pretty Pull-on Skirt, Pop-over Dress, and my beloved Cashmere Crew.
But back to the pants. I love them. I did size down one size as they run a smidge large. By now, you all know leopard print is treated as a neutral. Right? It is easy to substitute for other pieces in your wardrobe. Here are 11 ways to style leopard print pants.
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Styling The J.Crew Leopard Dot Denim Pants
How to Wear Now
Outfit #1: Leopard Dot Jeans + Graphic Tee + Denim Jacket + Sneakers
I leaned in on the whole cat look, adding a Clare V. tee by Anthropologie to my jeans. I considered wearing my Anine Bing Tee. Another cat inspired look. My denim jacket is L’Agence Janelle Jacket made of aged denim, which is incredibly soft and almost sweater-like. This whole outfit is perfect for your first ventures out of the house and back into the world. With all the stress of masks, hand sanitizer, and social distancing, it is nice to wear a comfortable and casual outfit.
BTW – my slip-on kicks are the Cerchio by M.Gemi. I have mentioned them before, but I cannot stress enough how fabulous they are. They are beyond comfortable and stylish. I have them in several colors, including a striking hot pink. They are a bit pricey, but I have had my white pair for four years now, and they are still going strong. They are currently 30% off, so sizing is limited. These cool kicks are part of M.Gemi’s permanent collection, so check back if they don’t have your size and color.
Outfit #2: Leopard Dot Jeans + Elevated T-shirt + Red Shoes
I was inspired by the Nsale Vince T-shirt Dress to try the Rosamund Tie Front Top from Anthropologie. The flattering tie front makes this tee something special. It also hides the midlife middle that so many of us struggle with after fifty. The length elongates my short torso and flatters most figures. I don’t have much of a waist, and I was pleasantly surprised to see this top gave me the illusion of one.
The bow front elevates the whole outfit to work worthy or date night ready, yet it is still comfortable and easy to wear. I added a pop of color with my Eileen Fisher shoes. My flats are no longer available, but these Walking Cradle Raya are similar. In winter, you could wear this whole look with a long cardigan and boots. The tee is available in five colors, and I am seriously considering buying another one.
Outfit #3: Leopard Dot Jeans + Blush Top + Sneakers
Every year, I pick up a short-sleeved Vince silk shirt at the NSale. This year I picked up this fabulous Rib Trimmed Top in Champagne. It is this light pink, almost rose gold color that I didn’t capture well in the photo. The fit is flattering as it hangs loose, and the sleeves are cut at the perfect length.
I used to shy away from silk because of its required care, but I find silk to be the most comfortable year-round fabric. Because the top is silk, you can wear it for work or every day. I am so tempted to go back and buy the black, but I purchased a similar black one last year.
I’m wearing Golden Goose sneakers, which are both stylish and comfortable. Golden Goose sneakers have an internal wedge, which makes them infinitely more comfortable than flat sneakers, especially on these aging feet. Who knew the feet would be the most annoying part of aging thus far. I am always dealing with some sort of foot pain.
Outfit #4: Leopard Dot Jeans + White Tank + Red Jacket + Sneakers
In a recent post, I went on the hunt for The Best Non-See-Through White Tank Top. The AMO Long Ribbed Tank top won hands down. I loved it so much. I purchased the black too. Are you seeing a pattern here? If you love something consider getting it in more than one color.
They both are getting a ton of use this summer. You can wear a white tank top with almost anything, and it looks effortlessly cool. So I paired it with my leopard jeans and added a red corduroy jacket for heavily AC’d indoors.
My jacket is from AG Jeans and no longer available, but the Lee Rider Corduroy Jacket is only $98 and in more burnt red that fits the fall trends better. I am wearing my Golden Goose again, but you can add your favorite sneaker or flat to fit your day or mood.
Outfit #5: Leopard Dot Jeans + Denim Shirt + Blazer + Loafer
Adding a denim shirt to leopard pants is likely the first outfit combo that comes to mind when you think leopard print. It is a classic pairing like peanut butter & jelly. But it is a classic for a reason. It fits so many occasions and can be tailored to your style so easily.
One of my best purchases from last winter was this Everlane Oversized Blazer. I wear it all the time. You can dress it up or wear it with leggings. It keeps its shape nicely, so I often bring it along just in case. For a polished look, I added my Gucci loafers, but you could wear this casually with your favorite sneakers.
Outfit #6: Leopard Dot Jeans + Camisole + Blazer + Heels
Leopard print is inherently sexy and, therefore, perfect for date night or evenings out. Remember those? For an evening look, I added a silk camisole, fitted blazer, and kitten heels. All three are staples in my closet and worn regularly. The blazer is pretty old. Likely more than five years old, but when I purchased, I looked for a classic cut with no trendy details.
I am grateful for the return of the kitten heel. I gave up uncomfortable high heels long ago, but I appreciate the feminine nature of a heel. The kitten heel is a perfect alternative to sky-high heels.
Outfit #7: Leopard Dot Jeans + White Tank + Utility Jacket + Sneakers
Pretty much, my everyday uniform includes a military-style jacket. I don’t even want to admit how many different styles I own. The one I’m wearing is from Madewell. I was cruising their site looking for my jacket and came across the Military Shirt. Can I justify one more jacket for my collection? It is different, and it is so good. I might have to add it to my collection. Mine is similar to the Passage Jacket.
Adding the leopard jeans gives my standard uniform of tank/tee + military jacket + jeans a modern boost. Of course, I added another pair of Golden Goose sneakers because sneakers are my jam! This year I am eyeing these.
How to Wear For Fall & Winter
Outfit #8: Leopard Dot Jeans + Cashmere Sweater + Heeled Booties
It may well be winter before we get out in the evening. Never the one to suffer for fashion, I refuse to be cold when heading out in the evening. Though these days, I am rarely cold. My sweater is Frame from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It sold out so quickly. I think it will be available later this fall. Fingers crossed. I purchased in a Large as I usually size up in Frame pieces, but I think I need a medium.
I’m wearing the Free People Adele Bralet underneath. A peak of lingerie is super sexy under this sweater. The boots are OLD! But the heel is walkable, and the style is still current. I am on my 2nd or third cobbler shop glow up on these boots, and they still look great.
Outfit #9 Leopard Dot Jeans + Cashmere Crew + Loafers
Adding the J.Crew Cashmere Crew in your favorite color is a quick and easy outfit formula. I am feeling the hot pink with these pants, but there are like a million colors to choose from (actually it is 24) but still a lot. So you can find your favorite. I love the Cashmere Crew so much I wrote a post about it last winter: The Under $100 Winter Staple You Need.
BTW – When I took these photos, I wore the size 29 pants and then decided to size down. You can see why in the images below. There is extra fabric bunching in the front of the pants. The size 28 fits perfectly with no bunching.
Outfit #10: Leopard Dot Jeans + Graphic Sweatshirt + Combat Boots
I picked up this Anine Bing sweatshirt at the end of last season. It is an excellent heavy quality perfect for California winters. Sadly, it isn’t available yet this year, but I love the Rowe Eagle Hoodie almost more. I always size up in sweatshirts. I like an oversized fit. This one is a large. The sleeves are a bit long, but I prefer the baggy look.
Another favorite purchase from last winter is my rag & bone Shawn Chelsea boots. When I saw them, I knew I had to have them. They are 100% my style, and I wear them all the time (well back in the days when we could go out).
Outfit #11: Leopard Dot Jeans + Oversized Sweater + Boots
Winter is coming. Albeit pretty slowly in San Diego. We have our hottest months ahead, and that is right about the time I start dreaming of winter. Adding this Free People Easy Street Tunic to my leopard jeans is a no brainer. I love this sweater so much; I have it four colors. It is back for fall with a whole bunch of new colors. I’m wearing a medium because I like the oversized look. You could easily size down for a less oversized look. This tunic washes and wears well, and it is perfect for hanging around the house or finally heading out.
My boots are the Tamara Mellon Easy Rider. Pricey but well worth it. They are beyond comfortable and the first pair I reach for when I travel during the fall & winter. It will be my third season wearing them, and they still look like new.
Bonus Outfit
Outfit #12: Leopard Dot Jeans + Striped Shirt + Utility Jacket + Flats
I added this as a bonus outfit because I am not sure I like the combo of stripes and leopard dot. If you treat leopard as a neutral, then pairings these two together should be ok. However, it is a lot for this quasi-minimalist dresser. I prefer a plain colored top like outfit #7. What are your thoughts? Too much? Just right? Would you wear stripes and dots?
It does allow me to show you another of my favorite Madewell Utility Jackets this time in weathered black. I loved to hear your thoughts on this outfit or any of the others.
You can’t go wrong with a cool pair of leopard print pants. There are countless ways to style these pants. The denim works best for my casual lifestyle. The fabric is perfect for wearing everyday or dressing up for a night out.
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