For most twenty-something females, the thought of animal print as a fashion statement is just a little too Scary Spice circa 1996. 

But unlike certain girl groups, animal print is making a comeback, and a fairly successful— and tasteful— one at that. Taking inspiration from a few favorite style stars as well as Fall 2010 runway collections, animal prints like tiger, zebra, and especially leopard are the most fun way or reinventing your fall wardrobe. Here are a few hints…

ACCESSORIES The simplest way to channel the animal within is with a subtle accessory, like a belt, scarf, or even a bag, like the one Kate Bosworth sported recently. For a versatile and affordable scarf, get the London look with Topshop’s Leopard Print Scarf ($32)— and for ideas on how to wear, check out Dries Van Noten’s superb runway Fall 2010 collection in which the pattern was deftly juxtaposed with army green, navy, and khaki tones.

SHOES My personal animal-print weakness is shoes, such as a pair of to-die-for leopard booties that I picked up in Paris a few months ago (think these but without the wedge). To get the look stateside, check out Tory Burch’s Reva Leopard Ballerina Flat or Rocket Dog’s Memories Leopard Print Flat ($44.95). For the more adventurous sole, Jessica Simpson’s soaring Waleo2 leopard heels ($98) are irresistible.

FULL PRINT For the bold style setter, take it up a notch with an all-over print. Get inspiration comes from the ever-chic Rachel Bilson and slip on a print dress, such as this shift from Satine ($88.50), or a cardigan, like this one from Ann Taylor ($49.99). To really walk on the wild side à la Hilary Duff, experiment with print pants. Zappo’s has True Religions ($153.12) on sale… but only for the truly ferocious.

Urban jungle, here we come…