Playful yet sophisticated: Clodagh McKenna styles leopard print with polka dots for a party-ready look
The chef pairs two power-prints for a fun and festive look
Clodagh McKenna is having a very busy month. Her new book Clodagh at Home comes out this week, and her TV series Clodagh: Cooking at Home just premiered last Saturday on ITV. But, while she’s got a lot on her plate (pun intended) – and she’s been doing it in style.
Ahead of the book’s release, she celebrated with her family and friends in a party-ready ensemble that expertly blended two of this year’s biggest patterns: leopard print and polka dots. It might sound a little OTT, but this pairing works surprisingly well.
Clodagh's long-sleeved Margot leopard dress by Queens Of Archive teamed beautifully with her black, polka dot tights and a pair of stiletto, patent-toe pumps. The key was in keeping her look relatively neutral colourwise, allowing the patterns, rather than bright colours, to lead the outfit. And if you want to recreate her look, you’re in luck, as Clodagh’s exact dress is still in stock.
Fitted at the waist before falling into an A-line shape and mini length, Clodagh's leopard print dress boasts puffed, structured shoulders that add a refined touch. An oversized black bow adds interest to the neckline, while long sleeves make this a style you can wear into winter.
The subtle all-over polka dot pattern on these tights makes wearing them with bolder prints a breeze, as the sheer finish keeps them feeling minimal. Try styling them like Clodagh, or wear them alongside an all-black outfit.
While these heels differ from Clodagh's in their silhouette, they share the mix of smooth, matte leather and patent details. The contrast between the rest of the shoe and the patent toe is subtle but adds a certain elegance to the design.
Just like Clodagh's dress, this one from New Look boasts long sleeves and a simple, A-line cut that lets the leopard print shine. Tie details at the back allow you to cinch in the waist to your liking, while a V-neckline adds a feminine feel.
Delicate polka dots keep these tights feeling understated and timeless, with a sheer, 20 denier finish leaning into this soft and subtle look. One review says that, despite the 'fine denier', they 'haven’t laddered,' which makes these tights a win.
If you haven't already got a pair of black court heels like Clodagh's in your wardrobe, this Next pair make a great buy thanks to their chic look and added comfort technology - your feet will thank you for the 'Forever Comfort' padding.
Animal prints remain one of the biggest autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026 with everything from zebra, tiger, and deer print ticked off, but of course, leopard spots remain at the heart of our wildlife-inspired wardrobe. And Clodagh's Queen of Archive dress delivers a modern-vintage feel.
While clashing prints can feel a little maximalist, the star's sheer spotted tights work delicately with the leopard print, and the two pieces complement, rather than fight for attention. The sheer base of the tights definitely helps to mellow the spotty print, and together, Clodagh is rocking two of fashion's most loved pattern styles.
If you're in need of autumn outfit ideas, don't discount using fun tights to jazz up classic or even bolder styles in your wardrobe to inject a little extra personality into your look.
