color crush | animal instinct

Hey, hey, color crush lovers! It’s that time again = our monthly spotlight, where we take one bold dose of color [but this time we are changing things up a bit and doing something special] and style it into your everyday wardrobe. Missed the last few lineups?? Let’s catch up briefly: Beautiful in Burgundy | All Things Olive Green | Caramel Cafe.

But for October we are taking it up a notch and focusing on a state of mind…. we’re embracing everything that is ANIMAL PRINT! Hear me out: these prints have been quietly stealing the show all year, and now in soft cow print, rich leopard + cheetah, statement snake and subtle zebra tones, it’s the perfect mix of fall drama + effortless layering. Think of it as a “neutral with attitude” — because it plays well with everything [denim, caramel knits, camel, olive, black, burgundy… you name it] and yet still feels fall + fashion-forward. I totally love that I am seeing it in different and very unexpected colorways too which makes it all the more fabulous…

So yes, we’re doing patterns, but we’re doing it smart. These prints are EXACTLY what your closet needs right now if you want just enough edge to feel seasonal, but enough versatility to wear on repeat and feel your best self, while NOT camouflaging your presence [total dad joke moment]. Let’s lean into it + let’s have some fun. Let’s call this our Color Crush | Animal Instinct moment.

To start things off… I couldn’t resist pulling out this Rylie Bomber in Cow Print [yes, I said cow print] = because it’s exactly the kind of wardrobe moment that toes the line between standout and utterly wearable. The Rylie comes in a relaxed, slouchy fit with dropped shoulders and this all-over pattern gives this versatile denim jacket some edge! I paired it with my o-to wide leg denim jeans + a better than basic tee to let the pattern be the hero. It’s just enough fun for fall without feeling gimmicky, and it gives your outfit that “I-didn’t-try-too-hard” look that I love 😉

Surprise surprise!!! Cheetah print is back in a BIG way. I’m so smitten with the Scarlett Top from my Shop Avara fall collection that it is well worth mentioning here as a top contender too = it was the little wild card I needed in my lineup. It features that allover cheetah print, a round neckline with a sweet keyhole back, puff-style + structured short sleeves, and a relaxed cut that drapes just right. I styled it with the Kimberly Denim in Fuchsia – but you could just as easily tuck it into a denim skirt or throw it under a blazer as well. It’s that perfect piece that feels elevated without being over the top… exactly the kind of versatile “neutral print” our closets need right now. [wearing XS, runs TTS]

And of course we simply cannot leave out my beloved Harper Jeans… I’m thrilled to say you all fell in love with these jeans as much as I did! The all-over leopard print is bold in the best way possible, and the barrel-leg silhouette gives it that on-trend shape we’re all loving right now. High-waisted, ankle-grazing, and seriously comfortable, these jeans are such a fun swap from your everyday blues. I styled mine with the Irene Sweater and layered accessories to yet again, keep the print the star of the show, but trust me when I say they’re shockingly versatile = they look just as good with all cozy knits, a sleek blouse, you name it. Animal print really is the neutral we’ll be living in in the months that follow, and the Harper is proof! [wearing size 24, run slightly large]

And then last but certainly not least… let’s give it up for this NVLT Knit Leopard Sweater! Truly one of those pieces that instantly makes your outfit feel pulled together without even trying. The knit fabrication keeps it soft and cozy, while the leopard print brings just the right amount of bold and of course the gold accent buttons make it all the more memorable in this lady jacket-esque layer. I paired it over the Bri Bodysuit in Black and Brittany Jeans for an easy everyday look, and it’s the kind of sweater you can throw on and instantly feel chic. It’s playful, a little unexpected, and again functions like a neutral = you’ll find yourself reaching for it way more than you’d think. [wearing XS, runs TTS]

If you’re still wondering how to make animal print work for you, here’s your proof that it’s everywhere = from everyday sneakers and cozy blankets to statement dresses, handbags and even jewelry. This all out animal print inspo board is packed with all the cheetah, leopard, zebra and cow print goodness you could ever want, and it just goes to show how versatile these patterns really are in your wardrobe as well as your home!

Whether you’re dipping your toe in with a playful accessory or going all in with a head-turning dress, there’s an option for every style and comfort zone. Scroll below to shop my curated picks — I rounded up the best of the best so you can add a little wild to your wardrobe this season.