The Best Leopard Tops For Women

Buying Guide

Few patterns in fashion make as bold a statement as leopard print. One of the best things about this type of print, though, is its neutral colors. When you buy something in leopard print, you’re essentially getting a tan-and-black pattern that you can combine with a variety of items. Whether you’re adding a leopard-print blanket to your living room or buying a new dress or blouse, this pattern is neutral enough to add a little excitement to just about any look.

But there’s a reason leopards have such a beautiful coat. In the 1950s, legendary English computer scientist Alan Turing theorized about the evolution of a leopard’s spots and it was discovered that the spots actually begin to form on a leopard in the embryo stage. Turing estimated that the patterns emerge as a result of two substances working together in the leopard’s body during development. His ideas and initial research has been built upon over the years by scientists studying pattern formations in a variety of animals and sea creatures.

For decades, fashion designers have striven to replicate the beautiful design found naturally on leopards. True leopard print features black rosettes on a tan background with light brown spots in the center of those rosettes. It can often be confused with cheetah spots, which are similar but feature black spots rather than rosettes, and those spots are solid rather than having a brown center.

The good news is, no leopards are harmed in the creation of leopard-print fashion. You can find leopard print on a variety of fabric types, from cotton to chiffon to faux fur. Leopard print can make just the bold statement you want, whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or going to the grocery store.

When pairing your leopard-print tops with bottoms, you have plenty of leeway. Both leopard and cheetah prints look great with black pants, shorts or skirts, but you can also pair them with blue jeans for a more versatile look.

• If you’re going for a lightweight summertime look, a leopard print tee can keep you comfortable while also livening things up. You’ll notice tees that come with a variety of necklines and sleeve lengths, with some featuring cuffed sleeves. These little details can make a big difference in your look.
• The length of your top is an important factor. Some fall at the waist, making them perfect for pairing with the high-waisted pants and jeans that are so popular today, while others extend longer to allow you to wear low-rise pants or leggings.
• If you’re looking for a soft tee, you can’t go wrong with cotton, but polyester brings more durability. A cotton-polyester blend could give you the perfect mix of both.
• You don’t have to stick with full leopard print if you’re just looking for a small splash of the print. You can find tops that have leopard-print accents to minimize the pattern if you prefer.
• Some T-shirts feature unisex sizing, so women will have to size down a little. Pay close attention to measurements.
• Spandex can give any top a little more flexibility. Even a small amount of spandex mixed in can provide a stretchiness that makes wearing the shirt more enjoyable over the course of a day.
• You can find leopard-print clothing that takes creative liberties with the traditional pattern. You might find some with a rainbow pattern or with a background that’s either lighter or darker than what’s found in nature, for example. These options can give you a new take on a classic look.