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Embrace big cat energy with these trending ideas...
You heard it here first, leopard print is trending again. Fresh from the catwalks, the fierce but friendly pattern is making its way into our homes – and we are here for it.
‘Leopard print has undergone something of a style revival,' says Jane Rockett, co-founder of interiors emporium Rockett St George. 'Gone are the days of leopard print being perceived as a little bit tacky – now it screams of glamour and fun.'
Chloe Dacosta, design manager at Blinds 2 Go, agrees: 'We’ve definitely seen a resurgence of leopard print in fashion. Naturally, this has translated to our home decor too. The revival of this iconic print is down to its surprising versatility.'
From small accessories like lamps and plates, to larger surfaces like wallpaper and even sideboards, leopard print is flooding the interior design sphere. And while the classic brown and black design is leading the way, more subtle, pared-back hues and smaller scale prints are peeking through too, so there really is something for everyone. 'Leopard print is versatile enough to work with any scheme, whether you're a minimalist at heart or prefer your interiors loud and proud,' adds Jane.
But how is best to use it in your home? Lauren Gilbert Thorpe at Lauren Gilbert Thorpe Interiors, says it's all about moderation. 'Leopard print is a fun way to inject a playful touch into a home. Use the print moderately so it creates visual interest – ensure that it complements rather than dominates your space,' says Lauren. 'We often introduce leopard print within elegant sofa cushions that draw the eye without overpowering the room. Or an ottoman covered in this iconic pattern can become a statement piece.'
If you're keen to embrace your wild side, check out our top five ways to introduce leopard print into your home. From subtle to statement, we've got you covered.
'For a brave approach, opt for a statement leopard print armchair that adds just the right amount of fun and flair,' says Lauren Gilbert Thorpe.
Patterned armchairs are becoming increasingly popular, and they're a great way to create a statement in your living room or bedroom.
Positioned against a black panelled wall like this, the classic leopard print pattern creates a fierce yet cosy feel. This contemporary shape brings the iconic pattern right up to date.
Image: The Edie Chair, Rockett St George
This unique polka dot leopard print fabric is part of a collab between interior designer Breegan Jane and Clarke & Clarke. Used to upholster this mid-century style armchair, the look is warm and inviting.
All too often, we assume that the furniture in our home, be it coffee tables, sideboards or wardrobes, need to be plain. But, there's no better way to make a statement than by choosing a patterned design, and we're seeing more and more leopard print storage creep into our favourite stores.
Whether you surround the pieces with plain, simple items to let the leopard print take centre stage, or you use it as part of a mis-matching, eclectic and maximalist scheme, leopard print furniture is a sure way to create a talking point.
This stool brings a playful pop of pattern to the space and draws the eye towards the centre of the room.
Image: Lavish Leopard ceramic stool, Joe Browns
Stow away all your living room essentials in this leopard print sideboard and simply slide the door shut for a fun, statement talking point that's as beautiful as it is practical.
'If you’re looking to incorporate leopard print in a subtle way, pair it with neutrals such as beige, tan and cream, or the classic black and white,' says Chloe Dacosta. 'Choose just one statement leopard print item, such as your blinds or curtains, and keep the rest of your scheme plain.
Here, the leopard print pattern on the blind is small in scale, so it blends into the room scheme seamlessly. As the only pattern in the room, the blind draws the eye without overwhelming the space.
This grey Roman blind has a slight gold and silver shimmer within the patten, making for a luxurious and elegant feel.
Image: Gobi Gilver roman blind, Blinds 2 Go
This light-coloured blackout blind has flecks of pink and blue for a modern twist on this iconic pattern. Incorporate pink or blue accessories into your space to draw your room scheme together.
‘The trick to using leopard print successfully in the home is to layer it, using only as much as feels comfortable,' says Lucy St George, co-founder of Rockett St George. 'This allows you to match the mood to the occasion, and dial the look up or down as required. Try an accent cushion or footstool.'
Table lamps, cushions, or throws are great pieces for easing yourself into this bold pattern. Then you can easily chop and change your look.
Image: Leopard portable lamps, Love Frankie
Striking pink and blue spots against plush faux fur makes for an extra cosy and fun design that's perfect for adding a splash of colour to your bedroom.
'When styling leopard print in the home, you can either play it safe, or go all in,' says Chloe Dacosta. 'Pattern drenching involves using the same pattern on multiple surfaces, such as blinds, wallpaper and upholstery. This is ideal for those who like a maximalist decor.'
This leopard print wallpaper is broken up by a flower print to create a feel that's fun and playful.
Image: Leopard and Roses wallpaper, Petra Palumbo
A feature wall of leopard print is not one for the faint hearted, but done the right way, it can created a focal point that'll sit back nicely with any room scheme. This design is available in six shades.
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