Cheryl Shops

I'm going to cut to the chase and acknowledge the elephant in the room, which is that, yes, I am wearing a dress. A somewhat dressy dress. In the middle of a global pandemic when I'm supposed to be sheltering in place. And yes, even though I'm allowed out in public to exercise and make supply runs, I felt very obvious walking around my neighborhood in a zebra-print maxi dress. I'd like to think it's because this dress is so beautiful—and it is—but when everyone else in your vicinity is wearing athleisure and you're in a floor-length gown, you can't help but stick out like a sore thumb. That said, I have contractual obligations and social distancing was fully observed while shooting this post. Plus, we'll be able to return to normal soon, so might as well dress for it, right? Right! So let's talk about this dress that I can't wait to wear again for real.

Back when I worked for Gap, our first fashion campaign of the year was always a neutral one. I think part of that strategy is that it’s in between seasons, so you don’t really need anything and aren’t looking to make a major statement, plus neutrals are a nice palate cleanser after all the rich colors and sparkle of the holidays. I also find myself gravitating more toward neutrals in general, although I do like a good strategically placed print or statement piece—and that’s what this look is, in a nutshell. You could wear it nearly any time of year (minus the heavier jacket) but the zebra print makes enough of a statement so that the outfit is memorable. Zebra will probably never replace leopard in everyone's hearts, but it's a fresh alternative. Here’s how to put it all together.