Leopard, zebra, snake: your summer wardrobe has officially entered its wild era.

Animal print has never been particularly interested in blending in. And honestly? That’s part of the appeal. It can turn a simple outfit into a look with actual plans, even if those plans are just lunch and a little shopping.

The trick to wearing it in summer? Keep the fabrics light, the styling easy and the layers to a minimum. Nobody needs to suffer for a leopard-print moment.

Let one piece do the flirting

A floaty leopard-print skirt with a halterneck top? Excellent. Zebra-print trousers with a breezy linen shirt? Also excellent. Start with one printed piece, then build around it using clothes you already love. The print brings plenty of personality; your accessories don’t need to audition.

Check the fabric before you check out

That slinky animal-print dress might look perfect online, but will you still love it on a sticky summery afternoon? Look for breathable cotton, linen blends and loose cuts that give you room to move. A breezy printed dress with flat sandals is the kind of outfit you can put on once and happily wear all day.

Start small if you’re print-curious

You don’t have to commit to head-to-toe spots. Try a zebra-print tote with a simple matching set, sundress, or leopard-print sandals with linen shorts. It’s an easy way to test the waters—and give your everyday basics something interesting to work with.

Wear it somewhere ordinary

Please don’t save that printed skirt for an imaginary holiday. Wear it to brunch. Wear it to a braai. Wear it for iced coffee with the friend who always takes good outfit pictures.

Animal print becomes much easier to style once you stop treating it like a special occasion. Give it a place in your regular rotation. It can handle the attention.