Back in 1991, Prada debuted cow print pieces on the runway. And ever since then, the animal has been on and off the trend cycles. Animal print in itself has become a staple for many wardrobes—from the unapologetic leopard to the exotic snake. But what makes cow print different is its softness. A white base with diffused brown spots, it’s an easy colour combination to curate an outfit over.
And yet it fluctuates between trend cycles. Last year, it exploded in popularity together with American Western fashion, courtesy of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter. This year, it comes back in conjunction with the rise of bohemian fashion and with our obsession with brown everything.
That being said, the print has come back in a more subtle way this year. And that could be because, unlike the other animals, which project fierceness and being out in the wild, the cow is more subdued. As a domesticated animal, its print reflects that softness. So while we may not have seen cow print on runways, streetstyle fashion spoke a different visual language. For most fashion weeks, cow print became an unexpected trend among the attending guests.
For some, the softness wasn’t an issue. Regardless of what the print might project, with the right style and attitude, cow print can be just as loud. A cow print dress just might bring on that noise, and there are plenty of fast fashion options out there. But we would recommend thrifting and browsing vintage sites first so you can get your hands on quality.
A blazer is a good workwear option if you like to be fashion-forward at the office. This piece by Roberto Cavalli lends itself to the soft brown side, so you can keep things monochromatic with complementary tan shades or brighten up the look with white pants.
For a casual look for after office hours, pair a skirt with stockings, boots, and your jacket of choice. You can combine two trends and opt for a dark suede jacket if highlighting the brown points of the print is still the goal. Or you can wear a leather jacket for an edgier look.
If you’re looking for a quieter accent piece, then accessories are your best bet. Sneakers for jeans, ballet flats under a maxi dress, a print bag for when you have a plain look—as an accent, cow print stands out without overpowering. It’s part of the reason why it’s so popular in the first place.
As subtle as it gets, this headband adds a feminine charm to any outfit. But if you’re looking to clash, add the piece with cargo pants and a leather jacket.
adidas | Samba LT Cow Print BrownWhite sneakers | Dhs 450
You can never go wrong with a printed shoe. For one, it hardly pulls focus away from the rest of the outfit, and two, it acts as a fun detail to any look.
For a more elevated option, mules will do the trick. What we love about these kitten heels is their pointed toes. Paired with wide-legged pants, you get a cute ‘peekaboo’ outfit detail.
When it comes to bags, slouchy totes are all the rage and pair perfectly with winter fashion. Whether it’s a turtleneck or a jacket, you can sling this tote across the shoulder or fold it and wear as a daytime clutch.
And for a nighttime option, this everyday mini bag can turn into a wristlet for a chic look.
