Recent runways have been sporting all sorts of patterns. Classic florals, enlarged polka dots, and animal prints. Yet one has slipped through the cracks: zebra print. Appearing on Balmain’s FW25 collection, Roberto Cavalli’s SS25 collection in a series of asymmetrical slip dresses, and more recently on Maria Grazia Chiuri’s debut for Fendi, the zebra print trend has hardly made a splash, skipping the runway and instead pulling focus through fashion-forward influencers, stylists, and cultural tastemakers.
It’s hard not to see why the print is resurging in popularity. It’s a virtually striking black and white combination that’s not as loud as leopard print, but also not as demure as cow print. The neutral look brings a balance and allows it to work for both maximalist and minimalist styles, either serving as a statement or toning down a loud vision. Which means zebra print can work in all sorts of moods, all sorts of spaces. It can transition from day to night, spring to winter, and most importantly, desk to dinner. It’s the classic neutral of animal prints, one that can be an evergreen staple with the right styling.
So, How Do We Style Zebra Print?
Styling zebra print usually means incorporating it into your style instead of revolving an outfit around it. Its unique point is its adaptability, meaning we can fashion the print to either be a statement or an accent. Here’s how to manage both:
As an Accessory
Over at Paris Modest Fashion Week 2026, we saw zebra print as an accent point, used as a clutch to pop a chic neutral outfit. For those looking to dip their toes into the trend but not fully commit, an accent point is the best way to incorporate the print into a wardrobe. Pointed-toe shoes can peek through jeans without causing a fuss, belts can break up a monochromatic outfit, and bags can add a statement without going over the top.
As a Top
Scaling back and dressing with restraint is the best way to make a zebra print top pop. Since Bermuda shorts are back in season, pair zebra print with a neutral pair of shorts, an oversized blazer, and kitten heels. This look pairs the classic with the fashionable, balancing between masculine and feminine silhouettes, and looks oh so chic!
As a Bottom
When it comes to using zebra print as a bottom, the styling rules change. Maybe it’s because of the print’s grounding nature, but when worn as a pant or skirt, you can bend the rules to fit the print in either way. Plain black spotlights the print, showcasing a quiet, confident style, whereas tops in vivid red or cobalt blue complement the print, creating a visually cohesive outfit.
As a Dress
For those going all out and fully committing to the print, scale back and keep accessories in the same colour story. After all, we don’t want to pull the focus away from the print!
As a Jacket
And finally, on lazy styling day, a zebra jacket can easily elevate a plain outfit. This could be a denim piece over a tracksuit or a zebra print abaya over a dress. Either way, your style goes up a notch without trying too hard with this print.
