Halloween is almost here and you still don't have a costume? Don't panic: for a last-minute Halloween look, leopard print is your best friend. It's instantly recognisable, works with what's already in your wardrobe and, unlike a costume, you'll keep wearing it long after 31 October.
The essentials
- A black or camel base plus one or two leopard pieces is all a feline look needs.
- Make-up (winged liner, whiskers, spots) does the rest in ten minutes.
- Leopard shoes set the theme while staying comfortable all night.
- Don't mix prints: leopard holds its own.
Why leopard saves an improvised Halloween
When time is short, leopard has three unbeatable advantages. It instantly suggests a character: the big cat, the diva, the rock chick. It works just as well for men as for women. And it won't end up in a box: a leopard scarf, coat or pair of shoes goes straight back into your wardrobe the next day.
If your party is only a few days away, start by raiding your cupboards: a leopard scarf, bag or belt may be enough. Anything you add will earn its place all winter.
6 leopard looks to put together in fifteen minutes
1. Chic cat
All black (roll neck, straight trousers or a midi skirt), one statement leopard piece and cat ears on a headband. It's the simplest, most elegant costume, as at home at a fancy-dress party as at dinner with friends.
2. Eighties rock chick
Black jeans, a band T-shirt, a structured black jacket, backcombed hair and heavy eyeliner. Leopard comes in at your feet with a pair of clogs, or with a scarf knotted at the neck.
3. Sixties screen icon
A silk scarf tied over your hair, big sunglasses, a camel coat, red lipstick and leopard clogs. The result looks like a film star on the run, without a single costume accessory.
4. The cosy panther
Celebrating at home? Black joggers, a loose sweatshirt, cat ears and leopard clogs on your feet. Comfortable from start to finish, and perfectly on theme. More ideas in our guide to a cosy night in.
5. Group costume
With friends or family, everyone wears just one leopard piece (shoes, scarf, shirt, bag) over a black base. Together you make a very photogenic pack, without buying anything special.
6. The men's version
A black shirt or jumper, dark trousers and one well-chosen leopard touch: a scarf, socks or a pair of clogs. Add a few pencilled whiskers and the character is done.
Cat make-up in 5 steps
- Eyes: a black eyeliner flick stretched towards the temple.
- Nose: a small black or brown triangle on the tip.
- Whiskers: three fine lines on each side in black pencil.
- Spots: a few irregular brown spots on the temples, outlined in black.
- Lips: a deep shade, plum or burgundy, to finish.
Shoes: the piece that makes the look
When you throw a costume together, shoes are often forgotten. Yet one pair in leopard is enough to set the theme while the rest of your outfit stays simple.
The leopard Sienna clogs (€39.99) are closed-toe clogs in vegan suede with an adjustable metal buckle and a cushioned footbed that follows your arch. In leopard they come in sizes 36 to 41 (the plain Sienna goes up to 47). With black socks, they suit the retro and cosy looks.
If the party takes you outside, or for the rocker look, the sherpa-lined Cortina booties (€44.99) in black are a good choice: lace-free ankle booties with topstitching and a lug platform sole, in sizes 35 to 44. The leopard then comes from a scarf. They're the one to choose if the party takes you outside, or for the rock look.
A sizing tip: our styles are true to size, but size up if you're unsure. Delivery is free, you have 60 days to change your mind and size exchanges are free.
Mistakes to avoid
- Leopard head to toe: two pieces at most, or it starts to look like pyjamas.
- Mixing prints: stripes, checks and leopard fight each other. Stick to plain colours.
- Colours that are too bright: leopard sits best with black, camel, off-white or burgundy.
- Forgetting comfort: a night on your feet in tight shoes ruins any costume.
To wear the print every day, read our guide on how to wear leopard print.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make a leopard costume without buying anything?
Start with a black outfit, add a leopard accessory you already own (scarf, bag, wrap) and let make-up do the work: winged liner, a pencilled nose and whiskers.
What colours go with leopard for Halloween?
Black is the obvious choice. Camel, burgundy and off-white also work beautifully and give a softer look.
Can men wear leopard clogs?
Yes. Paired with a dark, simple outfit, they add a touch of character. The leopard Sienna goes from 36 to 41; beyond that, the black Sienna (up to 47) with a leopard scarf does the trick.
Read more
- Which colour of clogs should you choose?
- Clogs and socks: how to wear them
- Wearing clogs in autumn and winter
Clogs, booties and slippers for a great 31 October: discover our Halloween edit.
