One Cool Cat
I don’t know about you, but I’ve totally had it with hot weather. Halloween and Christmas decor has already hit Costco which means it’s time, mother nature, bring on fall. I’ve already switched over much of my wardrobe so when we woke up to wind and rain on Monday, I was thrilled to be able to wear some of it.
There’s no question, animal print is trending this fall, but is there too much? Leopard print overload is a real thing because I felt it happening to me last week. Everywhere I looked I saw leopard on boots, bags, shoes, sweaters, pants, scarves, jackets, and on and on, ad nauseam. I was tired of seeing it.
Then I ran across this shirt which reminded me to keep an open mind. Because there are so many items in leopard this year, there are more unique options which aren’t always available. Color and pattern offerings go in cycles. It’s best to buy your most flattering colors when you see them because it could be years before you see them again.
For example, if acid green is one of your favorite colors, you’ll be hard-pressed to find it most years. Then designers will decide it’s all the rage and there will be lots of options available for you to add to your wardrobe.
Leopard will always be in style, but most are warm-toned, like the animal. I look best in cool tones so I snap up cool-toned leopard when I see it.
I paired it with 
I love long cardigans and jackets over pants so I added a duster cardigan. This proportion nods to the rule of thirds which is the most aesthetically pleasing to our eye. Cutting our body into halves is never as flattering as dividing it into 1/3 – 2/3 l proportions.
COOL TONED LEOPARD
What do you love to wear that you have trouble finding?
You are so right. Some colors are hard to find. For several seasons now, been looking for dark brown anything…pants, sweaters, blouses, nothing. Love your blog, keep us current, we learn so much!
The blue blouse is really great! I’m going to start looking for some different colors in animal print.
I love the blue leopard on you. I’m laughing right now because I’m wearing my Chicos leopard tie blouse today for the first time. I think its a little too early for me to be tired of leopard yet! I’m hoping to stop by the fashion show tomorrow. I’m enjoying seeing familiar places pictured in your blog, but heads up, my daughter’s wedding was October 24th and it was 92 degrees that day. Keep a few lightweight things out, you may be needing them!
This is a great way for you to style leopard, Jennifer. For me I wear traditional all the way. It is fun to see so many options on the racks this year.
I too have just gotten a blue leopard top and do snap up things like that when I see them. Usually when animal prints are available they do not fit my wardrobe, so the off colours are great. Since the fall displays show lots of rust and mustard, I just think that I will wait for another season to stock up, but will get accessories to freshen things up. I am one of those who has regretted getting rid of too much in the past, so now will just put things away for a rest then perhaps pull them out in a couple years for a new look. Love the dark duster and trouser jeans.
Dang, so disappointed I can’t order the blouse from BR and have it delivered. Only available for store pick up?
The Dillon is a BR staple so they will likely restock.
I love the blue leopard. That sounds like a good name for a band. LoL. I wonder if they will come up with a lavender or cranberry. Wouldn’t that be fun? You look fabulous in your fall fashion. The only thing I’ve bought so far is a black quilted car coat. Usually a windbreaker is enough here but last year I was caught off guard by how cold it got here on the coast.
Lavender would be awesome!
Do love the shades of blue in the blouse you are wearing. As for the pants they are very flattering on you and isn’t it often the way, when you want something to shrink it won’t … lol! Regarding the acid green color also similar to that of lime soda pop (a popular shade on the European Fall runways ) I finally found a lightweight turtle neck sweater which was exactly I was looking for, in a thrift shop of all places. Happy dance and score as high end, looks like new and a perfect fit. -Brenda-
P.S.: Where I live; Autumn has been in the air for about two weeks now and the leaves on some trees are already in the mode of transitioning into their Fall wardrobe due to the cooler temps.
Good find! I do envy you the turning leaves. Ours usually just go limp and fall off. There isn’t enough chill to give that great foliage color.
I was so pleased to find it as had been searching for such a top and a friend of mine recommended I try the store where she has found some amazing pieces of jewelry so thought I’d give it a try and fortunately lucked in. -Brenda-
P.S.: From reading other comments; I gather you are participating in a fashion show today, so have fun and if nervous just visualize those in the audience are in their birthday-suits …. winks !
Love your entire outfit. I also went to order the top to discover most sizes are sold out. Would you say it’s true to size? Because it looks a little oversize, I would usually order a size down. Oh, and I would vote for never too much leopard. Have always loved it….so I guess this is my year! 🙂
It is a bit oversized. I’m wearing a medium and it’s pretty loose.
Brown. Always liked it, but hard to find
I, too, wear cool colors and was disappointed that your blue blouse is sold out. Then I remembered that I have a Talbots blouse from several years ago in a RED leopard print! I’m really glad now that the blouse survived several closet purges and will be wearing it a lot this fall!
Yay! I know many people encourage heavy closet purges each year but I don’t for just this reason. Tastes change!
I thought I would have to say no to the animal prints, but never say never. This blue has made me rethink that decision! I can see myself wearing this blouse.
Delighted to see leopard print in blue rather than the norm – thanks for posting this beauty. I wish I shared your enthusiasm for the switch to colder weather… heck, I’m one who welcomes hot flashes, lol.
Oh boy, I hope it doesn’t get too cold where you are. I’d be thrilled if temps were always in the 70’s. I’ve heard Santa Barbara has that climate:)
I also love today’s outfit. I have several dusters, but at 5’4 I usually purchase the petite. Seeing the trouser jeans on you makes me want to try a pair. They make you look tall. ?
Thank you for helping me step out of my comfort zone
In fashion.
That’s one of the reasons I love these pants!! The high rise and wider leg helps my legs look longer;)
I love this outfit! I’m so disappointed that the top isn’t available in my size!
Love your outfit today. Wanted to order the top but they were out of most sizes.
Thanks for sharing ideas with us. I always look forward to your emails.
I liked the blouse so much I went to Banana Republic’s website to order it immediately. Unfortunately they have sold out everything but S and XXL. Maybe I’ll be lucky enough to find a similar blouse at Marshall’s.
I find they do restock the Dillon shirt often so it’ll likely come back. It’s such a fun color
I love that shirt! You’re so right that sometimes the trendy colors just aren’t a good match for your coloring. I feel like when I try on anything leopard, I just fade away. That blue is perfect! Looks great on you. I love your duster but feel like I’m too short (5’4″) for them. Maybe I should try petite?
Thanks for the inspiration!
Linda
I am 5’4” too. It’s just personal taste and what your eye is used to seeing. Give it a try again Linda
I agree with Jennifer. I am 5’4” and bought a black one. I will probably wear it mostly with my kitten heel
style shoes and boots.
I love that this blouse has a different cooler take on the animal print styling.
It’s beautiful!
Rosemary xoxord
Like you, cool animal prints are hard to find. I also adore the colour Periwinkle and can never find the shade that is like the flower. It’s gorgeous!
I also snap up periwinkle when it’s available. Such a pretty color.