Lupita Nyong'o Revives Leopard Print Trend For Summer 2024

Braving the sweltering heat and intense sun taking over New York City, Lupita Nyong'o, acclaimed actress and notorious sartorial icon, donned an airy, lightweight silk slip leopard print dress in the streets of New York City on June 19, 2024. Although leopard print and cheetah print have been making a slow, but steady comeback in recent months, the actress has proved that the pattern is back in full force for summer 2024. 

As a sartorial staple of the '90s and early 2000s, it comes as no surprise that the print has been revived, especially given the current fascination around archival looks from the era. Millennials and Gen-Z fashion aficionados have begun sporting styles from the decade, praising the simplicity and effortlessly chic design details apparent on many of the most popular looks from the time, leopard print included. 

In her most recent NYC look, the actress opted to pair her leopard print dress with matching slingback heels, a sleek black handbag with gold hardware, and an ultra-chic pair of red-tinted oversized sunglasses—another memorable sartorial staple from the '90s. Accented with black lace and a miniature satin bow at the bodice, the leopard print dress appeared a bold, romantic vision that certainly stood out on the streets of Midtown. 

While several celebrities, Rihanna included, have taken to incorporating leopard print into chic cold-weather looks, Nyong'o proves that the print is ubiquitous, and suggests that the leopard print dress will rule summer 2024. 

On the scorching summer day, Nyong'o opted for minimal glam, and sported a natural, fresh-faced look in line with the recent dewy makeup trend taking over the Internet. With just a hint of blush, shimmery highlight, and a glossy lip, the star rocked a Clean Girl Makeup look sure to make its way onto countless Gen-Z makeup mood boards. Nyong'o also sported long, black stiletto-style nails and gold bangles, which added a subtle edge to the '90s-inspired cheetah print look. 

During this daytime outing, Nyong'o was accompanied by her A Quiet Place: Day One co-star, Joseph Quinn. The actor, who you may recognize from his stint in Stranger Things, wore a timelessly chic pinstriped suit and a pared-back Thom Browne button-down as he walked alongside Nyong'o. The pair waved at fans and photographers as they made their way through the busy streets.