Concrete Jungle :: leopard print + denim moto

Leopard is a statement-making power print; that's why it's a forever favorite. When I'm craving something attention-grabbing and impactful I love to turn to this bold pattern. In the concrete jungle that is New York City, sometimes it's very refreshing to stand out a little bit and wear something unapologetically wild. 

I love how universally fierce leopard is, and lately I've been treating it like a neutral - pairing it with all colors of the rainbow, even mixing it with different patterns (stripes + leopard = match made in heaven)! A little leopard number like this is perfect for weekend adventuring, and the best part is that you can add all sorts of different accessories in order to dress it up or down. 

My number one accessory for this particular look is a super chic denim moto jacket from Ann Taylor (PS. it's on sale now). It's the modern, more sharp version of your favorite jean jacket and makes for the perfect denim/leather jacket hybrid. I love how it gives any look a casual yet polished finish. 

For this look I opted to wear my heeled black booties rather than my flat Chelsea boots (featured here). I chose them because the heel elevates (no pun intended) my outfit and instantly injects some elegance into the overall look. A bootie like this is the perfect option for transitioning from desk to dinner come winter. 

A sleek gold choker is the ultra-chic accessory that will compliment everything in your closet. It's understated yet refined. 

Can you believe these pyramid studs are only $10 right now? They bring my outfit full circle by complimenting the edgy aesthetic of my moto jacket. 

Gold accessories to complete this golden hour look. Leopard and gold is a stellar combo in anyone's style book! 

Photos by Ryan Kathleen Greene 

[dress: ASOS (I also like this one) // denim moto jacket: Ann Taylor // booties: Nordstrom (similar here) // necklace: Ann Taylor (similar here) // earrings: Jules Smith // watch: Kate Spade // gold knot bracelet: Kate Spade // cream bangle: Kate Spade // heart bracelet: Tiffany & Co. // lip color: Nars velvet matte lip pencil in 'Dusty Rose']

The name of this post, Concrete Jungle, is inspired by a few things. First, I live in New York City, which is definitely a concrete, metropolitan jungle, and that's where these photos were taken. Second, I'm rocking a fabulous leopard print dress, which is wild and jungle-like. And third, in these photos I'm literally surrounded by concrete. 

Isn't this such a neat spot? My roommate and I kind of lucked into it the other weekend when we were searching for a not-too-crowded area at Lincoln Center. We originally wanted to take photos by the fountain or on the steps but it just so happens that a craft fair was going on that day and those places were filled with tents, vendors, and lots of people. So we snuck around to the side of the theater and that's when we found this magical spot that makes it look like golden hour any time of day. How's that for a true concrete jungle? 

SHOP::