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Natural Instincts: An Ode to the Animal Print
If you know the world of Penelope Chilvers, you know we love an animal print. Enduring pillars of fashion, the symbolism of these prints is plentiful - the embodiment of power, sensuality, glamour, rebellion, danger, seduction and exoticism - they cover a world of the most enigmatic aspects of the living experience.
We have been using animal prints in our designs for over 20 years now, and they remain core to every collection. The Elemental Spirit being no exception - the spirit of the natural world, combines with the playful spirit in a way that no other print compares.
We thought we would look at their stylised origins, and how they have stood the test of time since their prehistoric...
Wearing real animal skins was initially a matter of survival, but over time animal skins became popularised through animal prints in art, interiors, and fashion, using them as statement pieces in everyday life.
20th Century Hollywood: The rise of Hollywood glamour between the 20s-50s saw actresses including Marlene Dietrich, Joan Crawford, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Brigitte Bardot wrapping themselves in alluring leopard prints, making animal prints synonymous with that timeless Hollywood glamour and sensuality.
Rock 'n Roll Induction: Across the '60s and '70s animal prints became a staple of rock rebellion, adopted by icons including Jimi Hendrix, Debbie Harry, Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, David Bowie, Cher, Rod Stewart, Diana Ross and Tina Turner, to name but a few.
Nineties and Noughties Pop Stardom: Let's think about this - when hasn't Kate Moss worn a Leopard Print and made it iconic? Remember Britney's performances in Snakeskin? Supermodels like Naomi, Kate, Cindy, Christy, and Claudia all elevated the appeal of these prints. Rappers, movie stars, and designers alike embraced animal prints over the decades, both in streetwear and showstopping fashion moments for the hall of fame.
We've created a moodboard to give more of a feel for the impact of these prints, and hopefully some more inspiration too.
An Endless Love
As a brand, we cherish the natural world and are contantly reviewing how we do what we do - keeping our footprint truly at the core of the business - using carefully sourced leathers that resemble these animal prints, and by-product hides, we can create the finest pieces with incredibly considered elements.
When it comes to styling, mixing animal print with streetwear staples, effortless denims and simple basics works brilliantly for us; Mix the drama of the lengths and textures with bare skin and wafer-thin layers - if in doubt a simple black dress will look fabulous with a few animal prints in the mix. Or a pop of neon to give the playful nature even more fun, the options are endless!
Leopard print is unique because of its balance of warm and cool tones, making it incredibly versatile. It pairs perfectly with bold reds, electric blues, and emerald greens, but also seamlessly complements neutrals like black, beige, and white. Its adaptable nature makes it a year-round wardrobe staple, perfect for any item in your wardrobe.
Animal print shoes remain a symbol of boldness, luxury, and timeless style. Our latest collection, The Elemental Spirit, is something of an ode to this. You can enjoy the chic nature of our snake-effect Spanish leathers, with the High Honey Snake Effect Shoe, the Jolie Mary Jane and the Mini Studded Clutch - Glamour and style in equal measure, these are the perfet transitional pieces to enjoy time and time again.
For a more feline touch, our Fay Leopard Pump and Biscay Leopard Sandal are giving an unforgettable impact to the collection.
Last, but by no means least, the Jazz Friesian Pump is the most beautiful blend of comfort, elegance and playfulness - this pump goes with so much - an essential with all the character, we can't get enough in the office!
Be it bringing an extra touch of life to a little accessory, or a showstopping statement piece, animal prints continue to transcend trends, proving that they truly never go out of fashion. A timeless love affair, made for adventure.
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