Moo-ve Aside Leopard Print, This Season We’re Going Bovine
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7 hours ago
Leopard print might have had all the glory in 2024, but this year the animal on top is the humble cow. Here's how to work the print into your spring wardrobe.
When it comes to fashionable animal print, cow may not be the first that springs to mind – but it will be soon. After all, why follow the herd when you can lead it?
While we’ve had some pretty unexpected fashion trends enter the cycle this year – bonnets, bubble skirts and the revival of skinny jeans, to name a few – this one feels a little different. Cow print is undeniably a bold choice of print, whether it decorates your shoes, nails or your living room, and involves a lot more commitment than your standard neutrals.
But there’s something about it that has piqued our interest. Maybe it’s the rise of Western chic, the enduring popularity of brown fashion or even the need for a leopard print break. Whatever it is, we can’t help but be drawn to a bit of bovine beauty.
Another draw no doubt comes from hotshot trainer-maker adidas, whose Sambas took the world by storm last year in a range of prints and colours. Following the sell-out drop of its leopard print line of classic trainers earlier this month, the brand announced a surprise collab with ASOS – and this time, it was cow print’s turn to take the spotlight.
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‘Cow print is everywhere this season,’ said Tim Williams, Sportswear Director at ASOS. ‘By working closely with adidas, we’ve brought a disruptive spin to two iconic trainers, creating something that feels new, exciting and truly fashion… these trainers are the perfect way to nail the trend while staying true to adidas’ inimitable style.’
And it seems he was right to be big on the print. The adidas x ASOS SL 72 and Samba trainers sold out in just minutes – reportedly seven for the Sambas, and around 10 for the SL 72s – proving that the demand for cow print is indeed there.
So, what’s your next mo(o)ve? If you fancy trying the trend for yourself, but aren’t sure where to start, then read on for some prime cow print outfit ideas that will see you through spring.
How To Style Cow Print This Season
1. Statement Jacket
For the brave amongst us: dive head first into the trend with a bold statement item, such as a jacket, dress or skirt, that proudly shows off the print in all its glory. There’s little need to go into excessive styling with an item like this (jeans and a t-shirt will do), making it a pretty low-maintenance outfit to pull off.
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2. Rich Neutrals
Mocha mousse, anyone? Our favourite shade of brown shows no sign of slipping off the trend radar – and thankfully, it goes hand-in-hand with cow print. Layer up in neutrals with a cow print centrepiece, and then build out with soft-textured items that add depth to the look, like a knitted jumper, suede handbag or leather flats.
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3. The Loafer
adidas’s cow print Sambas might be having a moment in the spotlight, but they’re not the only means of stepping into the trend. Loafers offer a slightly more elevated take, and can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. We love the idea of teaming up a pair with some tailored trousers or a maxi skirt.
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4. Ballet Flats
The same principles above apply to last spring’s formative footwear trend, the humble ballet flat. With several months of styling this particular shoe under our belts, we feel pretty confident that we can apply the same rules to the latest (mooing) edition. For a classic look, team up with blue jeans and a white tee, and finish with a neutral cardigan buttoned-up or slung across the shoulders.
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5. Mix & Match Accessories
If you’re not quite willing to commit to full cow print, start steady and slow with a small accessory. A cute handbag, a mottled hair clip or even a pair of cow print socks can open the door to getting more comfortable with a print you don’t usually wear. (Plus it creates a nice focal point to build your outfit around.)
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Featured image: AW25 Copenhagen Fashion Week Street Style (c) Noor-u-Nisa
