Animal print is totally hot right now and is often associated with bold and daring looks. While this pattern does lend itself to casual wear or party wear, it can still be made appropriate for formal occasions. Like choosing anything for a formal event, it’s all about the cut, length and style of a piece that determines where it is best worn. The same goes for animal print. Choose your animal print accessories and clothing wisely and you can make it work for any formal setting.

When it comes to formal dresses, the cut and fit mean a lot. Depending on where you’re going or what sort of event you will be attending, most occasions allow will allow you to wear floor length or above the knee dresses. Even if both cuts are acceptable, it’s often that shorter dresses are not /too/ short and fall just above the knee. Neckline matters a lot too. A plunging neckline might be appropriate for a night out or if you’re planning to walk the red carpet, but is often not acceptable at most formal events. A strapless dress could be a good alternative if you want to be a little more bold, but be sure it still provides enough coverage.

Next, do you want to feature this pattern in the clothing itself? Or do you want to use it to accentuate what you are wearing? If you’re opting to choose a dress that features animal print, either in the entire dress or in some aspect of it (whether it is a color blocked dress or features a printed collar, sash, skirt or belt etc.) then you might want to accessorize with a simple statement necklace and clutches. Go for silver or gold, whichever best matches the print you’ve chosen, or go with monochromatic colored jewelry and shoes such as black or white. That way you can still look classy and elegant while exhibiting a bit of your wild side. If you wan to go for something a little tamer, then wearing a solid colored dress with animal print clutch purse may be your best bet. This look goes great with the little black dress but works with other colors as well. Go for a bold snakeskin print clutch or shoe matched with gold jewelry. This way you’re using the pattern to play up your ensemble while the solid color balances the entire look.

Chicastic has snakeskin clutches, leopard print chiffon scarf etc which may be perfect accessories for formal and casual wear.