Mixing Patterns for Fall: Leopard and Stripes
Well, that’s another crazy Halloween in the books. Based on the amount of candy we gave out, we had probably close to 650 or so kids. And we ran out of candy by 8pm! My sister is here visiting, and the Young Cousins also stopped by to help out. It was a fun evening. Sis and I are planning to go out to brunch today, and here’s what I’ll be wearing.
Casual fall outfit with leopard and stripes

(My sizes: Cardigan – XS, Shell – Medium, Jeans – 28)
I find patterns can be challenging on a petite frame, let alone mixing patterns. But the one mix I do still love is leopard and stripes. So this combo felt like a slam dunk. The cardigan runs a little large, and the cashmere shell runs small, so size up if you prefer a less snug fit.
These are the Citizens of Humanity straight leg jeans I packed but didn’t wear on my recent trip to London & Paris, and now I’m not sure why. They’re one of the most comfortable pairs in my current rotation! I love the straight-leg cut, and my inner Goldilocks approves of the not-too-slim, not-too-baggy fit. Just right! (See how I previously styled them 2 ways here.)

Yes, the cardigan is on the spendy side. Talbot’s has some good-looking and more budget-friendly tipped cardigans HERE. (They’re also currently having a Buy One Get One 50% Off promotion.) And here’s a nice one from Lands’ End. If you’re Petite, this style from Ann Taylor is also good (and 30% off).
Do you mix patterns in your outfits? What’s your favorite mix?
This week’s best sales…
Banana Republic – 40% off full-price purchase
Talbot’s – Buy 1, Get 1 50% off (includes sale items)
J.Crew – 40% off fall favorites
Madewell – 25% off all sweaters, coats & some boots (Code WARMTH)
Lands’ End – up to 60% off sitewide (code TRENDY)
Neiman Marcus – up to $275 off (code SAVENOW)

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Love the straight leg jeans! Great outfit!
Hi Sharon, thanks!
Fantastic outfit on you! It has a very cohesive look — including your glasses and lip color and jewelry. Love!
Thanks, Bette!
This outfit is so chic! Your color and style combinations are so good. I love the denim and cardigan.
Thanks so much, Laura!
What a modern, effortless look! I’ll bet you feel, as well as look great in it.
Hope you have fun with your sis!
Hi Susan, I’ve learned so much from you, thank you!
Thanks very much, Kerrie!
I love how you’ve combined patterns here! You have great style. The acorn charm appears again. Did you just buy the charm and use your own chain? It’s so cool too but I don’t see it on the site.
Hi Claire, thanks so much! The chain is a bespoke piece (also from Tarra) that I’ve had for a few years now. I purchased the charm separately.
Love this outfit. You always inspire me to think outside my sartorial box.
One request…..I was in Paris in October, and saw so many women, of all ages, wearing flowing pants…not bell bottoms, but full-on wide legs.
I can’t remember if you did a post about this trend. If you did, can you post again? Ive been browsing the stores, and haven’t found anything like I saw in Paris. And no, I didn’t shop for them there….barely got my husband to stand still while I raided City Pharmacy for my Nuxe oils, A313 salve, and La Roche Posay products.
Hi Cheryl, thank you! Yes I saw the same trend in Paris, and did write about it in my subscriber newsletter, and here: https://unefemme.net/paris-fall-style-trends-2024.html
Such an excellent outfit. The cardigan may be spendy but 100% cashmere is worth that. And it looks great with the leopard.
Greetje
I don’t think I’ve ever mixed patterns, unless the item I’m wearing has the mix built in. Like you, I’m petite, so I don’t want my clothing – either in volume or print – to overwhelm me.
Hi Susan, nice outfit! I like the mix of animal and preppy.
Last night I watched the Martha Stewart documentary on Netflix. Thought it might be of interest to you. It seemed to be a very fair and honest look at her entire career. And I found it a bit inspiring. Had not taken much interest in Martha before but I feel a little bit of renewed interest in gardening and home life.
It was a bit of distraction that is helping my sudden, out of nowhere election anxiety for tomorrow.
Be well, thanks for your beautiful blog.
I like the look, but leopard print can be a bit to busy for me in large doses. A cool leopard in a belt or scarf (soft blend) might work better.