As a fashion writer, I’m constantly on the hunt for pieces on the cusp of turning mainstream.
Leopard-print shoes are definitely not in this category—the animal fabric already covers every shoe trend and style imaginable—but when you can’t beat them, join them. This has led me on a side quest to uncover the best leopard-print shoes for myself and bring them to you. The old adage "a leopard doesn’t change its spots" might ring true, but as evidenced by the plethora of leopard-print shoes currently on the market, it’s clear that there are myriad ways to rework the print.
The feline pattern first appeared on the runway in 1947 courtesy of Christian Dior’s debut collection in a design he entitled Jungle. Since the mid-century, leopard print has dotted the creations of French Maisons like Saint Laurent and Alaïa. By the ‘90s, leopard print dominated the trend cycle and could be seen everywhere from TV (Fran Fine in The Nanny) to the streets (Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s inimitable style). Much more recently, the iconic print has become a signature of young London-based and Scandi brands including Charlotte Simone and Damson Madder.
Now, thanks to an association with the "mob wife" aesthetic and all things '90s, leopard print has fallen back in fashion’s favour—just look at the popularity of the leopard-print jeans trend for proof. Leopard-print shoes offer a chance to literally walk on the wild side, especially if you tend to veer towards a more minimalist wardrobe.
Wearing leopard heels with an LBD punctuates your silhouette with a Sofia Loren-esque sensuality, whilst leopard-print flats bring contrast to classic looks and juxtapose a minimal colour palette with an eye-catching accent. Leopard-print trainers, like the viral Adidas X Wales Bonner Sambas, are an effortless and comfortable way to embrace the trend whilst bringing an unexpected touch to tried-and-tested outfit formulas.
A-listers like Gigi Hadid and Rihanna are on board too, albeit with a more maximalist twang. There are some great expensive-looking high-street options from COS, Mango, & Other Stories and H&M; and the best part is that leopard print will never go out of style, meaning you can buy now and wear for the foreseeable. All it comes down to is choosing your preferred style—trainers, mules, ballet flats, mesh pumps, kitten heels or knee-high boots—and letting the print do the rest.
Below, see and shop my edit of the best leopard-print shoes.
The Best Leopard Print Shoes
1. The Best Leopard-Print Trainers
Style Notes: Trainers have come a long way from being worn just for working out. Now, countless trainer outfits make up our modern uniform. Leopard-print trainers can dress down structured outfits, sharp jackets and tailored staples whilst also elevating casual looks.
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These trainers look far more expensive than they are thanks to the pony-hair texture.
Parisian women always rely on Sézane, one of the best French fashion brands, for elevated basics like chic trainers.
The Bella Hadid-approved SL 72 OG sneakers have had a roaring makeover.
Flatforms are a great way to add extra height to your look without a heel.
Brown and blue is a celebrity-approved colour combination that just works, and we love how these showcase it.
2. The Best Leopard-Print Flat Shoes
Style Notes: As we've already mentioned, leopard-print shoes can come in a variety of styles, but we'd argue that none are more elegant than leopard-print flats. Dainty styles like ballet slippers and preppy iterations like French-girl-favourite Mary Janes become a bit more city-ready when coated in the bold print. Still, they remain delicate, especially when paired with satin trousers or minidresses.
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The leather buckle makes these feel quite punk but still super classy thanks to the sleek pointed toe.
I love how the strap is also in leopard print.
These ballet pumps feature multiple trending accents, from the leather strap to the square toe and bow.
Take your cue from Reformation and pair your mesh shoes with a barn jacket for that town-meets-country-chic look.
Leopard is a print long associated with Alaïa, but the addition of criss-cross straps makes these flats quite playful—even Jennifer Lawrence thinks so.
3. The Best Leopard-Print Boots
Style Notes: Whilst we're already aware that snake-print boots and leopard-print coats will continue their reign next winter (that's if Khaite's autumn/winter 2025 show is anything to go by), for those of us who already own both of these pieces, leopard-print boots are a sophisticated way to incorporate the print into our cold-weather outfits.
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You'll feel like Scary Spice in these.
Not one, but three Who What Wear UK editors recommend Reformation's Remy boots.
The curved heel and ankle height are such sophisticated touches.
These Staud boots feature a more abstract leopard print, but we think it makes all the difference. Truly, no one else will have a pair like these.
The velvet finish on these Gianvito Rossi boots is dance-floor ready.
4. The Best Leopard-Print Heels
Style Notes: Ahead of your next soirée, allow us to show you why leopard-print shoes should be your next heels investment. The print certainly makes a statement, but it's neutral enough to be paired with the pastel satin and vibrant sequin party dresses that are already in your wardrobe. Better still, they deliver a high-voltage injection to monochromatic outfits like an LBD look.
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Slingbacks are the sophisticated shoe trend you can always rely on.
Or for something a little more flirty, why not go for this dual-strap iteration?
Invest in quality with these kitten heels from Saint Laurent.
A peep toe, T-bar strap and curved heel? Yes, yes and yes.
These mules are begging to be worn out.
5. The Best Leopard-Print Loafers
Style Notes: Whilst I'm not entirely anti-trainer, I, like many others, find myself gravitating towards a loafer, ballet flat or boot instead of their sportier counterpart. Loafers are a style I constantly reach for, irrespective of the season. I love styling them with a minidress in summer to bring a more polished edge to an otherwise floaty look, and wearing them with denim come winter for that collegiate-chic vibe. Leopard-print loafers introduce a new element to your timeless outfits without requiring any further thought. A shoe that updates a 'fit in an instant? Talk about working smarter, not harder.
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Leopard loafers could be the new suede loafers.
Penny loafers have been given a primal update.
I love the moccasin details on these.
These are made from 100% leather, so you know they'll last.
Tod's Gommino loafers are synonymous with artistry, heritage and craftspersonship. And now, they're the ultimate non-boring yet comfy shoe.
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