Seeing Spots

Earlier this week, my inner fashionista squealed with delight as I paid for my first leopard-print item: a gauzy blouse from H&M - sightly sheer, slouchy in all the right spots (pun fully intended), and treads dangerously close to being a bit too much. It's particularly irresistible paired with minuscule khaki shorts and thick gold cuffs adorning each wrist. I'd like to call it "safari glam."*

It seems my animalistic instincts were spot on. Leopard print litters the August issue's pre-fall shopping guides of Harper's Bazaar. And I'm more than happy to indulge. As Sarah promised on Twitter (@ClassyFabSarah), the first leopard-print piece won't be the last.

My advice: bring a discerning eye to inexpensive leopard items. Many verge on looking a little too, well, cheap when compared to pricier alternatives.

(pictured clockwise, starting from upper left)

Marchesa Notte, Leopard Silk Gown, $1,212.91 (on sale)
Tucker, Leopard-Print Silk Blouse, $280
Topshop, Leopard Tassel Cross Body Bag, $60
Casadei, Leopard-Print Satin Court Shoes, $296 (on sale)
Deena & Ozzy, Pony Belt, $20

*Don't worry, ladies! I'll post a photo of the H&M blouse soon!