Into the Wild

Yes, it does seem that every season animal print comes into play in at least one collection. Spring 2011 example: Blumarine. Cheetah print is all over on this collection, and I love using wild animals as inspiration to spice up your outfit. Left & right: Cheetah print covered the looks at Blumarine's Spring 2011 show with brights serving as a backdrop.

However, you don't need to go all out for that wild statement. One of fashion's classics is animal jewelry. You know what I'm talking about: Cartier. Their iconic animal jewelry has been topping off outifts for decades. From rings to bracelets, the diamond covered statement pieces are more like pieces of art than pieces of jewelry. But savers be warned: these pretty pieces are worth a very pretty penny.

From left: Cartier Panthere Ring 18k white gold ring with paved diamonds, emerald eyes, onyx nose & black lacquer spots, $51,600. Cartier Panthere ring in 18k gold with diamonds, black onyx nose, black lacquer spots, tsavorite-garnet eyes, $22,300, cartier.com

But of course, with such beautiful jewelry, why stop at rings? The gorgeous Panthere jewelry doesn't end there. There are also bracelets, earrings, & necklaces! Below, from left: Panthere bracelet in 18k white gold, diamonds, onyx nose & spots, emerald eyes, price upon request, cartier.com. Panthere earrings in 18k gold with tsavorite-garnet eyes, onyx nose, & black lacquer spots, $31,900, cartier.com.

So you may think that it all ends there. With jewelry. However it is just the beginning. May I introduce you (or for the true fashionista, may I reacquaint you) to Judith Leiber bags. They are beautiful, stunning, and covered in crystals. When you're looking for that statement bag, Judith Leiber is who to go to. From dolphins & peacocks to turtles & cats, the novelty bags availible at judithleiber.com.

Check out these wildlife-themed bags below:

From left: Da Yun, $5,495, Botswana, $4,995, & Macau, $5,695. All availible @ judithleiber.com