Courtesy of IWC

As we enter the Year of the Tiger many men and women might be considering adding a touch of the tiger into their wardrobe, but those who do need to walk the fine line between stylish and garish, as well as between fur and fake.

Big cat prints can be both clothing decorations and a commentary on issues of class and environmental preservation. Leopard, tiger, cheetah and other pelts have long been a symbol of wealth and status, frequently associated with royalty, whereas garments strewn with animal prints are often perceived as slightly crass or even in the tawdry realm of ...... subtle approach. Purple, green or blue versions of these prints all send the message that one is purposeful but a bit inventive and even dangerous.

For summer 2010, a hat-band in tiger print is guaranteed to garner the maximum number of compliments. Perhaps the most understated tribute to the liege of the jungle is a limited edition — just 210 — watch from IWC, designed just for this year. This minimal display of feline is only likely to attract the most docile of tigresses.