Animal print: it’s bold, it’s fun, and it can add a bit of a wild side to your home decor. But let’s be honest, it can also go wrong very quickly. Things can easily get out of hand, turning your living room into a safari lodge or amusement park. This trend has the opportunity to make a statement by being tasteful, chic, and elegant. Here’s how you can achieve this look flawlessly.

Start Small, Think Big

If you’re new to decorating with animal prints, it’s best to start small. Think of it as an appetizer, not the main course. A little goes a long way and can make a big impact without overwhelming the space. Start with accessories like throw pillows, blankets, or even a lampshade. These items can be easily swapped out if you decide that zebra stripes aren’t quite your thing after all. The key here is to use animal print as an accent rather than the focal point. This approach allows you to experiment and find what works for you without committing to a major decor overhaul.

Balance it Out

Balance should be at the top of your list of priorities when incorporating animal print into your decor. You don’t want to walk into a room and feel like you’re being stalked by a herd of cheetahs. Pair animal prints with neutral tones and solid colors to create a harmonious look.

For example, if you have a leopard print rug, balance it out with a neutral sofa and simple, solid-colored curtains. This way, the animal print stands out as a stylish element rather than overwhelming the entire room. Remember, the goal is to create a sophisticated look, not a zoo exhibit.

Mix and Match Carefully

Mixing different animal prints can be tricky. It’s like mixing patterns in fashion: it can either be a success or an epic fail. The trick is to stay within the same color palette. For instance, a zebra-print throw pillow can look stunning next to a leopard-print ottoman if the colors complement each other. However, if you’re not confident in your mixing abilities, it’s perfectly fine to stick with one type of animal print per room. This will help you avoid the risk of creating a chaotic look and instead maintain a cohesive, stylish vibe.

Make a Statement

Sometimes, a bold statement piece is all you need to transform a room. Consider looking into a single, high-impact piece of furniture, like an animal-print armchair or a bold zebra-print area rug. These statement pieces can serve as the focal point of the room, drawing the eye and adding the drama you crave. When choosing your statement piece, make sure it’s something you love and can enjoy for years to come.

Accessorize with Flair

Accessories are a great way to dip your toes into the animal print pool without diving in headfirst. Think animal-print picture frames, coasters, or even a chic set of animal-print candles. For a splash of the unexpected, consider incorporating animal print in less obvious places. An animal-print tray on your coffee table, a leopard-print tissue box cover, or even a set of zebra-print napkins can add a playful yet sophisticated touch to your home.

Embrace the Unexpected

Animal print doesn’t have to be limited to traditional leopard or zebra patterns. There are many variations out there, from snakeskin to giraffe spots to tiger stripes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different prints to find what resonates with your personal style. For a modern twist, look for animal prints in unconventional colors. Think pink leopard print or blue zebra stripes. These unexpected takes on classic patterns can add a unique and contemporary touch to your decor.

Keep it Classy

Avoid going overboard and resist the urge to plaster animal prints on every surface. Instead, choose quality pieces and use them sparingly to create a chic and sophisticated look. When in doubt, remember that less is often more. A single, well-placed animal print item can make a far greater impact than a room full of mismatched patterns.