Sorry, White Shirt—This Is Actually the Top I Wear All the Time

by Elinor Block

By now, we’ve established that animal prints, namely leopard, are basically neutrals when it comes to our wardrobes. Whether that’s coats, shoes or dresses, to us Brits this bold print is a wardrobe staple. I think that an animal print shirt is just as useful as a classic white button-down. Don’t get me wrong—I have plenty in my closet, but for me, the animal print is that bit more exciting and fun. You can pair it with blue jeans, other animal prints (for a real statement) or black trousers.

But don’t just take my word for it; I’m not the only lover of this blouse. Who What Wear UK's editor in chief, Hannah Almassi, wears hers belted with wide-leg trousers; stylist Emili Sindlev pairs a ruffled version with a zebra-print miniskirt; and Rouje founder Jeanne Damas tucks hers into high-waisted jeans. As for me? I’m partial to wearing mine with smart tracksuit trousers and a black blazer. For all those looks and my edit of the best leopard-print blouses, keep scrolling.

Photo:

@hannahalmassi

Style Notes: Hannah wears her oversized leopard-print blouse belted with fun feather-embellished wide-leg trousers.

Photo:

@ada_oguntodu

Style Notes: This is how to do some serious layering. Tuck in your shirt to a skirt and trousers and a checked jacket over the top.

best leopard print blouse: emili sindiv wears hers with a zebra mini skirt

Photo:

@emilisindlev

Style Notes: Just how many animal prints is too many? It’s never enough in our opinion, and Emili clearly agrees as she wears her leopard-print blouse with a zebra-print skirt and snake-print boots.

best leopard print blouse: elinor block wears hers with a pair of adidas tracksuit pants

Photo:

Joy Montgomery

Style Notes: I like to wear mine with smart track pants, heels and a black jacket.

Warehouse Leopard-Print Blouse (£32)

A cute one to pack for holiday.

Ganni Leopard Linen and Silk Blouse (£240)

You can wear this over layered over a roll-neck in the winter. It’s also an exceptional blouse to wear as a wedding guest when paired with a slip skirt or wide-leg trousers.