I always thought that as well, but my opinion changed when I had to dress for a pretty formal office. Leopard print (in the form of a cardigan or scarf or something similar) lets you bridge the gap between black and brown so you don’t need to buy new, matching clothing and shoes. I still didn’t feel comfortable enough with it to actually wear it, but I don’t have catty (sorry) thoughts when I see leopard print anymore.

Actually, now that I think about it, that made it fall out of my personal definition of trashy, but might make it trashier for some people.