DALMATIAN PRINTS & OXBLOOD REDS: 20 REASONS TO SAY YES

We’re not sure if you’ve noticed, but there’s been a ton of fashion-y internet talk focused around this fall’s polarizing Dalmatian print trend, first made popular by the runways of Jean-Charles de Castelbajac and Topshop Unique; and we, for the life of us, can’t figure out what all the fuss is about! Through the fashion ages, leopard has easily established itself as a perennially pleasing print, even despite its high-risk-for-tacky factor. So we ask, what’s the difference here? As with any print motif, the important thing to keep in mind when incorporating ‘busy’ pieces like these into your everyday ensembles is to exercise a bit of restraint. If it’s the dreaded Cruella factor that’s got you in a tizzy, our word of advice is to rid that poisonous thought from your head immediately. You can minimize your risk but still show your adventurous side by donning these pieces as accents, sparingly. In fact, we may even be leaning in favor of a little fresh doggy style over the standard leopard for this fall, ourselves… Luckily for us, and for you, the trickle-down from runway to retail has already commenced; we hope you’re poised and ready for it!

DALMATIAN PRINTS
1. Vero Moda Dalmatian Gathered Bow Back Dress, $33*
2. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Dalmatian-Print Knitted Cardigan, $375
3. Topshop Dalmatian Spot Box Bag, $66
4. Matisse Hysteria Boot, $198*
5. Dr. Martens 1460 8-Eye Pony Boots, $270*
6. Senso Latrice Wedge Bootie, $245*
7. Leifsdottir Piebald Satchel, $398*
8. Eddie Borgo Dalmatian Gemstone Cone Bracelet, $375*
9. Dolce & Gabbana Dalmatian Print Gloves, $300
10. Unique Dalmatian Nail Wraps, $15

If there’s one shade of red that literally anyone can pull off, regardless of skin tone, occasion or personal hang-up, we’d have to say it’s oxblood. While bright, vivacious reds will always hold a very dear place in our hearts (and closets too!), we think it’s safe to say they’re not always fitting for daytime wear. By contrast, a deep, rich oxblood can be worn during any time of the day, never appears out of place, forgoes the need to beg for attention, and complements a wider range of complexions than its flashier counterpart. Something tells us we’re not alone in our admiration of oxblood either, as recently we’ve come across an endless barrage of gorgeous oxblood articles in almost every form fathomable. Of those, we’ve selected a few winners here that are sure to be crowd hits–among friends and foes alike.

OXBLOOD REDS
11. Topshop Fit and Flare Tunic Dress, $40
12. Lover Henna Serpent Dress, $870*
13. Steven Alan Marlow Skirt, $178
14. MinkPink Sheer Indulgence Chiffon Blouse, $66*
15. Alice + Olivia Wide-Leg Pants, $198
16. Miu Miu Waxed Stretch-Leather Skinny Pants, $1,495*
17. Free People Knit Slim Bootlegs, $78
18. Topshop Angie Heeled Chelsea Boots, $150*
19. Messeca Cri Platform Boot, $190*
20. Rebecca Minkoff Buckle M.A.B. Mini, $525*