Fierce

A lushly illustrated history of leopard print patterns—and the untamed women who wear them.

In nature, the distinctive markings on big cats served as camouflage, helping them to blend into their surroundings when hunting prey. Unlike these magnificent predators, humans have donned this distinctive animal pattern to be noticed; leopard print demands an audience. Jo Weldon, an expert in the world of burlesque, reveals how this sexy, playful, decadent, and vibrant pattern once reserved for royalty came into vogue and became a staple of fashion.

With technological advances in textiles, leopard print—long used as a symbol of a warrior’s power or a ruler’s wealth—became a sensation, adopted by trendsetters and the avant-garde, including celebrities such as Carole Lombard and Josephine Baker, who walked her pet cheetah, Chiquita, on a diamond-encrusted leash. Today it’s a genuine classic that nevertheless retains an aura of daring and surprise. With a lively narrative, informative sidebars, and stunning images, Fierce is a must-have collection for designers and fashionistas.