Leopard print. It kind of has a bad reputation, right? Well, there’s a new style in town and it’s #trending. That new style is bolder, graphic, modern, and will match more decor than you think. Introducing: Serengeti leopard print.
There are some schools of thought that think leopard print is tacky. And, I get it. It has not been shown in the most flattering light sometimes. But, done properly, anything can work. Today, I want to show you why Serengeti leopard print is a far better option to use in your fashion and decor items and what separates it from the original print we all know.
Traditional vs Serengeti
So, what is Serengeti leopard print? Well, it’s like traditional leopard print, except the color is more saturated, the pattern is larger, and there’s more of an ombre effect to the background fabric color. Check out the difference for yourself:
via Fabric.com | via Ballard Designs
Traditional leopard print consists of 3 color layers: the overall background, the background of each individual spot, and the black outline of the spot. This can get really busy looking an, while having more depth, it can get really busy and be hard to match. Serengeti leopard print is much simpler, with only 2 color layers: overall background and the black outline of the spot. There is no additional background color of each individual spot, making it much less busy on the eye.
Serengeti leopard print is also larger. Traditional leopard spots are small, making for a pretty busy pattern. Serengeti spots are more spread out and are larger in size, resulting in a bolder and more modern look. There is also greater variation between dark and light in the background of the Serengeti. This makes it easier to fit into your decor styles.
The traditional leopard print is just so yellow. Yellow isn’t really a popular color in home decor, so it can be hard to match. Serengeti, however, kind of acts like your typical black and white palette–which is arguably the most classic palette there is. Therefore, it acts as more of a neutral. Combined with the simpler pattern, it won’t scream at you right when you walk in the room; it’s much more forgiving than the original.
Using Serengeti Leopard Print
1. Chairs
via Casa Vilora
via Ballard Designs
via The Makerista
My favorite way to use Serengeti leopard print is on chairs. This is the most bold choice of this list, but the payoff is spectacular. Recover a vintage chair will make your dreams come true. The lines of beautiful vintage chairs, especially ones with arms, will give the piece some great architectural detail that perfectly complements the modern take on an old print.
2. Pillows
via Ballard Designs
via Studio McGee
via Willa Skye
Pillows are a great way to ease into this style. They are fun, small, and can be paired with other colors or patterns that complement the print. As you can see from the spaces above, Serengeti leopard is not afraid of standing alongside other bold patterns. Stick this sucker next to a colorful print and you updated your space in a super classic way, but with a modern twist.
3. Accent Pieces
via Ballard Designs
Yeah, I still can’t get over bamboo chairs. So what? Haha. But, do you see the beautiful x-bench in the background? Despite being a bold print, the Serengeti is playing a supporting role in this space. It is even acting as a neutral backdrop against the pop of Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year.
Lately, I’ve been watching too many Simply Nailogical videos on Youtube, so I have to ask, “What do you think?”. Are you team original leopard or team Serengeti? I’m team Serengeti all the way. Original leopard print only caused me heartache after my leopard trench coat got a sticky mouse trap stuck to its arm and needed to be discarded. Don’t even ask. I have many mouse stories from living in New York and it’s just better we not go there.
-Kristen
More Inspiration
- #Trending: Oversize Architectural Coffee Tables
- How to Reupholster a Chair Easily
- This is How to Use Shiplap in 2019
- How to Style a Console in 5 Steps
