leopard flat.

I've been wanting to add a flat in this fun animal print into my wardrobe for some time now, so when I found this pair at Target a few weeks ago (for under $20!), I scooped them up without thinking twice.  When I add a trendy piece to my collection, I usually tend to look at less expensive versions; this way, if I find it to be too far out of my comfort zone, I haven't put too much of an investment to feel guilty about not wearing it. And after looking into my closet for options, I initially thought these flats might not work well with my current looks.  But after some work and experimentation (what did I ever do without Polyvore?) I have come up with some great late-winter options to get some great mileage out of these sought-after shoes.
This first look was my initial outfit, worn on a casual work day.  Comfortable yet professional, this outfit could be worn on many occasions.


These next looks take a bolder color (kelly green) against the bright leopard.  I like how I'm able to make two different options, thanks to my variety of green pieces.  In the both looks, the green jacket is the exact shade as the green cardigan and tee; if they weren't, I would have used the black or white tee for the look on the left, and most likely a brown jacket for the look on the right (a black jacket would also work fine).  I usually save these chandelier earrings for when my hair is up in a topknot or pony; simpler earrings might better complement a looser hairstyle.
  
Finally, I love the option of using a springtime color (in this case, a raspberry) with the leopard print.  Used either in my new favorite Valentine's shirt on the left (see "Happy Valentine's Day) or in a wool scarf on the right, these looks are a great way to stay warm while looking ahead to the approaching new season.

I have some great ideas for when the weather actually does get warmer that I'll post when the time comes.  Hopefully I'll be able to keep using these bargain finds, and perhaps even invest in a longer-lasting pair once these reach their peak. Have you been thinking of adding a trendy item, such as this print, into your wardrobe? Clearly it can be easier than you think to fit them right in to your current pieces.  Now go get 'em!