Would You Wear…?

Snakeskin Print

Welcome back to our “Would You Wear…?” column! This column introduces trends that would perhaps challenge the status-quo (as far as wardrobes are concerned). It will usually feature a style that is either unfamiliar to you or requires a bit of daring on your part. If you haven't seen our last "Would You Wear...?" post, then please click on the label below THIS post. Today we’re zeroing in on the PYTHON PRINT/SNAKESKIN.

 

 

Formerly, I would shrink away from the python print because it clearly reminded me of the species I detest the most. Watching a snake slither, pounce, and kill on National Geographic clouded my childhood with hair-raising nightmares.

          Well, in time I learned to forgive the snake—all in the name of fashion of course! No, I’m kidding. I still despise this reptile, but I did grow to marvel its mesmerizing skin patterns.

Calvin Klein Resort 2013 (above) and Erdem Spring 2013 (below)

Since a genuine snakeskin clutch or handbag can be very expensive, I tend to gravitate towards faux-snakeskin or simply a graphic version of it. After purchasing a few snakeskin items, I quickly realized that this print is extremely versatile.

 

www.J.Crew.com

 

Here’s How to Incorporate it Into Your Closet:

Black-and-White Snakeskin

Python Print is the Leopard Print’s unassuming cousin. It’s equally as versatile as leopard yet not as "fierce" or ubiquitous. Wear a python print skirt like Tank Fashion Editor Caroline Issa (below).

 

 

 Neutral hued snakeskin (especially in black-and-white) provides the perfect canvas for cheerful colors. 

Colored Snakeskin
Colored snakeskin is quite unique and lovely. It’s such a refreshing decision to wear a snakeskin frock in hunter or mint green (as seen below).

Dress (left) is from Net-A-Porter and the photo (right) is from Elle.com

 

Snakeskin + Pattern

Don’t believe that you can wear another pattern with snakeskin? Well, you can—and it’s uber-stylish if you do. Apply the “pattern mixing” principle to this print, as you would for any other.

  

J. Crew works the python print in the summer AND winter by experimenting with colors and textures. Their final results are sophisticated and utter genius.

  Style Icon Elisa Nalin (left) and J. Crew (right)

  

Snakeskin Accessories

If you haven’t yet been lured by the appeal of snakeskin, then perhaps experiment with this pattern through accessories? A python print clutch or shoe is usually seen on a Fashion Editor’s “Must Have” list, because it adds an instant “cool factor” to whatever you’re wearing. And like we mentioned before—it’s one of the most adaptable prints out there. Wear it with denim or a little black dress, and hit the streets!

www.JakandJill.com

 

  

           You see, even in the most abhorred species, there lays an enigmatic artistry. G-d took out a few pencils, oil paints, and charcoal from His art box and delicately sketched the snake’s bold lines and deep shadows. I do not encourage the murder of these reptiles for fashion’s sake, but I’m definitely glad that there are faux-alternatives.

What do you think? Would you wear a python print? If so, what would you wear it with? Let us know!

Please click on the WOULD YOU WEAR label below to see more from this monthly column! (We covered Velvet and “Mixed Plaids” in the past).

UNTIL NEXT TIME!