Changing Its Spots: Leopard Print as Work Attire

Photos: Katie Derus | Cardigan: LOFT | Dress: Ann Taylor | Tights: F21 | Shoes: Ann Taylor (similar here)(last seen here) | Belt: Urban Outfitters (similar here) | Necklace: Aldo | Bracelets: Express, Nordstrom, Boutique

It has been too cold and snowy outside for outdoor outfit photos lately, so I finally gave in and did some indoor photos. (Look, Ma! No sunglasses!)

Leopard print has become so ubiquitous that even conservative fashion giant Ann Taylor has gotten in on the trend. If you had asked me not too long ago if the words "work-appropriate" would ever describe a garment made from this of-the-moment print, I would have looked at you like you just suggested I wear red patent leather go-go boots to a funeral. I would have missed the mark, though, as animal prints have become totally acceptable as work attire, even in my conservative field. They're especially easy to wear when in more muted colors, like the dress I'm wearing in the photos above. As always, the standard caveat applies: try to stick to one of these pieces per outfit, and make sure it's a color that won't make you look like you're channeling Peg Bundy. (Okay, maybe a teeny bit of Peg Bundy is okay--bright, coral-colored nails are always a "do" in my book.)