A SPOTTED Mess!!!

What is the difference between these two photos?

Although the picture on the right was taken in September, it is apparent that he is dressed in costume. However, what is the lady's excuse on the left? The real difference? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! It's the exact same outfit, except for the fact that the gentleman on the right opted for white faux fur and no jacket.

I'm already not a huge fan of animal prints, because you seldom find a person who knows how to successfully pull it off. You can go from stylish to cheap and tawdry in a New York Minute. Case & Point... this woman is wearing wide leg pants, a knee-length jacket and a damn top hat. She looks a cross between Cruella De'vil and The Mad Hatter. The poor man walking behind her appears to be in a hypnotic trance, induced by leopard overload.

One of my primary issues with animal prints is the fact that it can often come off as whorish. For those packing some serious pounds, it can make you look as if you just escaped from the wild.

Here are some tips ladies... don't purchase any skirts, pants, or leggings (and I'd be very cautious of dresses) in an animal print. Remember less is more!!! For the novice/wanna be fashionista, stick with accessories. A THIN belt, handbag, scarf, maybe a small headband (NO HAT), or a pair of shoes (careful they're tricky - shouldn't be fully printed). Don't go overboard. You surely don't want to throw on all of these items because it will be counterproductive. Leave the bolder pieces such as dresses, jackets and blouses to the pros.

Lastly... for the love of God, don't purchase any animal prints in fun colors i.e. pink, baby blue.

Now take a look at animal print done right:

*Special thanks to street correspondents Holly(leopard lady pic) & Katrise (costume man pic) for their "In-Transit" photo contribution.