Leopard Print [Science of Seduction]
The science of fashion is always a curious thing. I recently learned that animal prints make you more attractive (at least when it comes to male/female dynamics, can't speak for the others). The scientific term is "Misattribution of Arousal." Since you probably don't want to sift through a bunch of medical journals, I will boil it down the main points:
Ravenous wildcats have sharp teeth and want to eat you, therefore when one wears wildcat print men think of sharp teeth and being devoured, inciting a fear reaction, which somehow also increases feelings of attraction.
Basically, according to this principle, men are attracted to what they fear, in this case... you.
A Fashion Statement that Survived the 1920s, 1930s, and ON
Perhaps this instinctual science explains why this fashion statement has withstood the fashion storms of time.
I'm not saying leopard and cheetah print hasn't had low points. Think Peg Bundy from Married with Children. In spite of such images, the look has resonated so powerfully that it has stuck around from yesteryear's silver screen stars to today's Kardashians.
“See ‘em sizzle in the big, buxom, beautiful musical!”
But how did this animal pattern become a fashion staple in the first place, you might ask? Sadly, it has controversial roots in the early 1900's when African safaris were just becoming popular and travelers would return with their exotic furs. :(
So you have a situation where everyone who is anyone is wearing the newest and greatest trend. Until...
Jeanne Crain and Jane Russell in "Gentlemen Marry Brunettes".
Christian Dior IRRITATED FEMINISTS EVERYWHERE WHEN HE said...
"If you are fair and sweet, don't wear it."
That didn't go over to well. The response of women everywhere? A collective, "Um. Don't tell us what to do, Dior."
Maybe Dior's admonition was tongue in cheek. In any case, wildcat print became the fashion anthem for powerful women everywhere. Thankfully nowadays no animals are harmed to show a little rebelliousness!
Leopard/Cheetah Print Style Tips:
This week I challenge you to join the fashion icon ranks by wearing some leopard print. Yes, this week.
First of all, the question is not should you or shouldn't you wear leopard print... you SHOULD.
Because of its brown tones, leopard and cheetah print are considered neutrals. I know, I know. But go ahead, be brave and mix them with other colors and patterns. Except other animal prints, which I guess is the animal kingdom fashion equivalent of cannibalism?
If ever there was a time to wear leopard print on just about anything, it seems to be now. So have at it and stop just short of looking like Peg Bundy.
About the Photographer: Chris Blackburn Photography goes above and beyond mere digital... he has taken the time to learn lost art forms such as wet plate photography and cyanotypes.
Also, If you buy from the above links rather than going straight to the vendor site, I get a portion of your purchase at no cost to you. :)
enjoy more fashion inspiration from the golden age of cinema:
Doing research for this blog is kind of addictive. I'm currently reading various biographies from the Classic Hollywood era. And looking back at the important moments in their lives gets me thinking about my own...
I began with Carole Lombard, a woman who overcame some severe stumbling blocks, including a car accident that visibly scarred her face.