Animal print décor is having a moment in interior design but, honestly, hasn’t it always? The bold over-the-top patterns bring an unmatched glamour to any space with a mixture of sophistication and wild creativity. From bold leopard motifs to the classic sophistication of zebra stripes, animal prints remain a perennial favorite across generations for giving homes the look as distinctive as it is hospitable.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This blog post will see you on a design safari, covering the history of animal print décor, to expert tips on styling it in your home. Whether you’re transforming your whole home or just one room in need of a little pizzazz: there isn’t a limit to how animal prints can raise your interior game.
A Short History Of Animal Print Décor
Animal prints have a lengthy past in fashion and décor, all the way back to royal and aristocratic homes. Animal skins were first used as a status symbol or a marker for power. Monarchs showcased tiger or leopard pelts as trophies of their conquests, while skins of exotic animals became prized rugs, throws and accents.
Fast-forward to the middle of the 20th century, and animal patterns were roaring into modern interiors. Grazie, in part to cultural icons like Hollywood starlets, not to mention the rise of eclectic design trends, zebra stripes and jaguar spots became stalwarts in chic rides and luxe settings. Now, animal prints are entrenched as timeless design pieces, capable of the maximalist and the minimalist.
Types of Animal Prints You Need for Interior Design
Before diving right in and decorating, it’s important to get acquainted with the most common animal prints and the way they visually differ from one another.
Leopard Print
Classic and timeless, leopard print has a natural palate of tans and browns highlighted by dramatic black spots. Because it’s considered very elegant, this print looks great in luxurious spaces and works well with neutral or warm tones.
Zebra Print
For those who want contrast and drama, zebra all the way. Its graphic black-and-white palette lends itself to versatility, making it possible to include it in neutral-colored interiors or as a bold accent piece.
Tiger Stripes
Tiger prints add a sultry winter warmth to decorative interiors. Their bold, undulating patterns in shades of orange, black, or gold are wonderfully suited for rustic, bohemian or mid-century modern spaces.
Giraffe Print
Giraffes have irregular spots that make playful sense of their look. These prints are good for textured rugs or throws to give a touch of whimsy without overpowering the decor.
Python and Snakeskin
Snakeskin prints are all the rage for a sleek, modern edge. Their intricate detail lends sophistication and elegance to furniture upholstery or wallpaper.
How to Introduce Animal Prints Into Your Home
Living Room
Pillows & Throws: A great touch of boldness without taking over the space. Zebra or leopard throw pillows are beautiful against the neutral colors of a sofa.
Rugs: An animal print rug can be a great centerpiece, particularly in a tranquil minimalist living room.
Accent Chairs: Reupholster an armchair in a tiger-stripe or python-patterned fabric that will instantly make a banging statement piece.
Bedroom
Bedding: Use soft zebra or leopard-print bedding for an exotic but cozy feel.
Headboards: Going for an upholstered headboard for a touch of luxe utilizing a subtle animal print fabric.
Nightstands: How about a set of giraffe-print nightstands for that whimsical pop of style?
Bathroom
Shower Curtains: Replace the boring shower curtain with a funky animal print one.
Towels & Mats: Simple yet effective bath mats or towels with little tiger stripes.
Kitchen
Bar stools: Add an unexpected flourish to your bar stools with zebra-pattern upholstery.
Dinnerware: Come on, don’t you want to use animal print plates or glasses to eat?
Animal Prints: The Dos and Don’ts of Decorating with Them
DOs
Mix Wisely: Avoid visual bombardment by combining animal prints with neutral or soft tones.
Think Scale: For smaller spaces, choose subtler patterns In bigger rooms, you can play with bolder sizes and prints.
Anchor the Design: Choose a single piece to be the star, such as a printed area rug or statement chair, and keep the rest of the decor subdued.
DON’Ts
Take It Overboard: Too many animal prints in one room will overwhelm. Keep it balanced!
Pay No Attention to the Scale: Using large, bold prints in small places can make a room feel smaller than it is.
Clash with Bright Colors: Unless you’re deliberately look to achieve a kitschy, maximalist vibe, stay away from combining animal prints with brightly colored hues.
Animal Prints: The Perfect Color Pairings
Zebra + Bright Accents: Use red, navy, or green to add some punch to the monochromatic tones of zebra print.
Leopard + Warm Neutrals: Wear leopard prints with tans, creams, and rich browns for a cozy, cohesive vibe.
Tiger Stripes + Earth Tones: Team tiger stripes with moss greens or burnt oranges for a rustic, naturey feel.
Snakeskin + Metallics: Snakeskin looks amazing with a gold or silver accent for a chic, modern feel.
Talented DIY Animal Print Décor Projects
Feeling crafty? Here, some fun and easy projects to incorporate animal prints into your space.
Painted Planters: Transform simple terracotta pots with hand-painted tiger or giraffe patterns.
Personalized Print Wall Art: Stencil in your favorite print on canvases and make a statement with a gallery wall.
Furniture make-over: Recover an old wooden chair in zebra or leopard print fabric.
Frames & Mirrors: Use animal print paint or adhesive vinyl for subtle trims to elevate a piece in seconds.
Where To Buy Animal Print Home Décor
Not sure where to begin your shopping? These are some great options at all price points.
Wayfair: Wayfair has a plethora of animal print items, from throw pillows to rugs.
Etsy: From handmade and vintage to what you can imagine, check out the selection of unique animal print items
Pottery Barn: Very good products if you want high-end and luxury.
Amazon: Affordable and fast delivery from bedding to curtains.
West Elm: You’ll find modern, stylish interpretations of animal print décor here.
Make Your Home Wildly Stylish
Animal print décor doesn’t merely change up a space; it’s an expression of boldness, of identity, of adventure. Whether you start small with a throw pillow or fully commit to a tiger-print rug, these classic patterns mark any room with unparalleled charm and personality.
Feeling inspired? Go ahead and experiment! Focus on one feature and grow your wild sanctuary from the ground up. Fear not, when done carefully, animal prints are never not in fashion.
