Fashion and Beauty 10th January 2025 by Stellar Magazine

Goodbye Leopard – Zebra Print Is Taking Over

Are you ready to embrace the stripes?

Photo by Mizuno K / Pexels

Leopard and cheetah prints have had their moment, but 2025 is shaping up to be the year of zebra. Sleek, bold, and effortlessly flattering, zebra print is stepping into the spotlight, ready to make its mark as fashion’s newest statement.

Celebrities are already leading the charge, making it clear that this is the print to watch. Rihanna turned heads in NYC wearing The Attico zebra print co-ord. Tyla channelled the iconic style of the 2000s legends Aaliyah and Eve, stepping out in a vintage turquoise zebra print Roberto Cavalli dress.

So what makes zebra print the new “it” girl of fashion? Its beauty lies in its versatility. As a bold centrepiece, it’s unapologetically attention grabbing, whether in a structured blazer or a daring bodycon dress. But zebra also thrives as an accent, a patterned scarf to elevate a neutral outfit or a handbag.

This isn’t just a trend confined to the runway, it’s everywhere. High-end fashion brands have already embraced zebra with open arms. Marc Jacobs’ zebra leather chain mini bag is the epitome of understated luxury.

Marc Jacobs Zebra Leather Chain Mini Bag – €275

But if breaking the bank isn’t in your plans, affordable brands are also keeping pace, offering their own takes on the trend.

The Topshop Stassi elongated shoulder bag is the perfect head-turner and is now on sale!

Topshop Stassi Elongated Shoulder Bag – €35

Zara, H&M, and Pull & Bear are also brimming with zebra inspired pieces, from handbags to wide-leg trousers and maxi dresses, proving that you don’t need to splurge to make a bold, stylish statement.

Zara Soft Animal Print Ankle Boots – €22.99

H&M Cropped Pull-On Trousers – €16.99

Pull & Bear Animal Print Leather Shoulder Bag – €25.99 

Zebra print’s appeal is more than just its fresh look, it’s also so nostalgic. The pattern was a cornerstone of early 2000s fashion, a hallmark of the Y2K style which was all about making statements. Who could forget Britney Spears flaunting a zebra mini dress in pictures during her ‘Overprotected’ era or Paris Hilton photographed in one of her earlier outings in a sequin zebra-print dress?

Beyond its versatility, zebra print is rooted in timeless elegance. While leopard and cheetah prints often evoke a sense of playful allure, zebra is more about sleek sophistication. Its clean lines and high contrast palette make it strikingly flattering, elongating silhouettes and drawing the eye with its natural rhythm accenting the body. Whether you’re channelling maximalist or minimalist glam, zebra print plays both sides of the fashion spectrum.

So how should you embrace zebra print in 2025? Start small if you’re hesitant, a striped clutch, a pair of heels or even a camisole top can add just the right amount of edge to your look. If you’re feeling fearless, go for a statement coat or matching co-ord set that guarantees all eyes will be on you. And for those really looking to stand out, explore zebra prints in unexpected colours like red, turquoise or metallics.

As fashion shifts further toward personal expression, zebra print certainly leads with just that. From high-end luxury to accessible streetwear, this print is set to dominate everywhere. So here’s to 2025: the year zebra print takes centre stage, turning every outfit into a glamorous statement and every glance into a conversation starter.

The question is, are you ready to embrace the stripes?

Words by Hannah Wujiw