How to wear ....Animal Print

 Snakeskin is the new leopardskin from autumn next year, keep an eye out  for snakeskin prints coming through this spring and summer,particularly in knitwear and dresses.   With a subtle and delicate pattern, snakeskin prints are an easy entree into animal print,  is likely to find a place in your wardrobe post trend, and removes any doubt you're looking like a barmaid from the Rovers.

Chloe AW11

Look for  natural, and for the adventurous, clashing colours combined with python or cobra print  (python and cobra feature a natural stripe).

Seeking out a little bit of  luxury, is what we're supposed to do do when times are tough,  which may explain why animal print has been "in" for so long.  You can feel much better about the double dip recession with this on trend fiorelli snakeskin clutch, (comes with shoulder strap) from asos for 28 gbp, comes in under $60 nzd with free shipping.

Closer to home and lighter on the pocket K Mart has this snakeskin clutch at $17 (Ditch the cheap looking chain).   Check out the miu miu limited edition range for inspiration!!

K Mart Snakeskin Clutch $17

Fiorelli Astor Frame Clutch $60

   Photo courtesy of Miu Miu

If you become overwhelmed by temptation for leopard print, go for a simple shape with smaller spots, (say no to frills or ruching and cheap shiny fabrics, avoid literal colourways- ie orange/black/brown...unless its flat shoes or a luxe coat) and think carefully about styling. This k -Mart viscose t shirt for $19 in grey and black ticks all the boxes, and won't take you into Outrageous Fortune territory. It looks good with a cropped black cardigan and black leggings. I wouldn't say no to the grey leopard print cardigan from the Banana Republic Mad Men Collection. (Inspired).