Editor's Note: This post was updated March 2013.
I love leopard pattern spiked-heels or zebra print pump as much as the next over 50 woman does. And yet, when it comes to stalking this spring’s trendy animal print garments and accessories, women over 50 should exercise fashion caution.
I was reminded of this fact on a recent trip to the Museum of Modern Art. My husband and I were waiting for the elevator with two seventy-something women. One of the women was tall, pencil thin. The skin on her face was pulled tight—not a wrinkle, nor a sag. Her hair was the consistency of wispy, lemon cotton candy. (Is there such a thing?) But it was her leopard jumpsuit that really caught my eye. The poor thing looked like Chester Cheetah, the mascot for Cheetos cheese puffs.
In all fairness, I’ve never been a huge fan of animal print fashions. And these days, I worry that older women draped in animal prints are just begging to be called ‘cougars.’ Perhaps, they don’t care and I shouldn’t either. On Monday, my tennis doubles partner walked on the court with a zebra print canvas shoulder bag. I know she was going for the “upbeat and fun” look, but the purse was small and looked like she’d borrowed it from her twelve-year-old daughter. It was then that a little voice in my head said, “Where’s your sense of adventure, darling?” It sounded like a challenge. It was time for an animal fashion safari.
TOPS
Below are animal print tops, bottoms and shoes that I think will flatter the over 50 figure. For me, the secret to success with this trend is taming the urge to wear an animal print head to toe (ie, the jumpsuit mentioned above). A zebra pattern blouse with a pair of black slacks is fashionable without looking like a Halloween costume.
Jones New York Snake Print Cardigan (Green, Size XL)
And here's a trendy peplum top (sorry about the skinny model)...
Anne Klein Animal Print Peplum Top (Brown, Size 14)
BOTTOMS
Jones New York Cheetah Denim Skirt (Metallic, Size 14)
SHOES
There are lots of animal print ballerina flats out there. However, spring 2013 collections are featuring a lot of loafers, too.
Nine West Eyepopper Loafer - Size 8
