Tips & Trends: Leopard Print Slip-Ons

The leopard print slip-on is possibly one of the biggest AW14 trends going around at the moment. Bloggers and celebrities have been seen ditching their heels in favour of these decidedly more comfortable and practical flats. Leopard print slip-ons make a great addition to a casual/relaxed outfit. They're busy and fun and you can walk in them for days!

So are they a worthwhile wardrobe acquisition? Absolutely! As this trend has snowballed its way across the globe, there's no shortage of them across the country and online of course. It took me less than five minutes to compile a group of my top picks, so the availability of this trend makes it one of the easiest to invest in, not to mention the extensive price range, which means they're also affordable. Yay!

At the moment the 'slide' is probably the most popular type of slip-on. It looks like a pair of loafer style Vans without the laces. Gradually more prints are coming out in this style, such as checkered and zebra prints, while black is also in at the moment too. Leopard print would probably be the easiest print to find though if you don't want to spend too much money because there are so many more options. Check out my pick of the top four 'slides'. 

                                                  Senso                                                                                                    Tony Bianco

                                         Windsor Smith                                                                                             Sam Edelman

But who could forget about trusty espadrilles? They've been around for a few seasons now, but it just goes to show that 'espis' are practically a wardrobe staple. While the 'slide' is all the rage at the moment, a leopard print espadrille will most likely be easier to find and there will probably be many more options at cheaper prices too. I love espadrilles and prefer this style to the 'slide', which I find a little too masculine. Nevertheless, many a fashionista has managed to not only pull off the 'slide' but rock it quite well actually. So no disrespect, however, I will have to take sides here. Anyway, here are some great espadrilles.  

                                     Jeffrey Campbell                                                                                              Steve Madden

                                       Elyse Walker                                                                                                    Steven Lanii

So how does one wear the leopard print slip-on? Take a look at some of my favourite bloggers showcasing their style in these versatile shoes. 

Song Of Style | Tuula | Damsel In Dior | Style Scrapbook      

Madrid Photo Diary

Forever New coat | AG Adriano Goldschmied jeans | Sass & Bide top (old) | Jeffrey Campbell espadrilles | Samantha Wills necklace

I've been in Madrid for the past week for a diving competition. This is my second time to Madrid and I'm glad I got the chance to explore a little more than the first time. I spent most of my time at the hotel and at the diving pool but we got to out a couple of days to see some of the city. 

We went to Plaza Puerta del Sol the first day for a little bit of shopping. It's the heart of Madrid and the square was bustling with people, despite being such a freezing and wet day. Many streets branch out from the main square in which there are countless shops including major stores such as Zara, Mango and H&M, small boutiques and food stores selling all sorts of things from strange cuts of meat to gelato. 

The roads radiating from the centre square also lead to other major sites such as the Plaza Mayor. I really wanted to go and see it as well as the Royal Palace but unfortunately I didn't make it to either of these popular tourist sites. However, I went to a beautiful park called Parque del Retiro from which many of the above photos were taken. 

The park is one of the most popular in Madrid and one of the biggest I've ever seen. The day I went it was filled with people either exercising, taking a stroll, or looking particularly touristy (like me). Everything inside was so incredibly beautiful. In addition to the many monuments and water fountains throughout the park, there was also a big lake with a monument overlooking it in which many people had hired rowboats and were gently rowing around in. It couldn't have been more picturesque.  

Before leaving the park we sat down at a cute little cafe near the lake and had (obligatory) Spanish hot chocolates with churros. Chocolate con Churros is something I've always wanted to try and I happily indulged myself whilst taking in the most amazing view inside the Parque del Retiro. 

I'm going to miss Madrid but hopefully I'll be back again and soon and can see some of the major sites. I had an amazing trip though and now I'm looking forward to the next leg...Germany. Adiós Madrid, Guten Tag Deutschland!