From Zebra to Deer Print, Fashion People Can’t Stop Wearing Animal Print Shoes

In case you missed it, animal print is having a moment. I know what you’re thinking, isn’t animal print always having a moment? It’s true, patterns inspired by animal kingdom do tend to dip in and out of trend cycles fairly regularly. But this season, it feels a little different. Firstly, the most popular iteration (leopard print), certainly isn’t the only one we’ve noticed in recent collections. I’ve seen cheetah, python, zebra and even Sofia Richie was just wearing a deer print coat just a few weeks ago. What’s more, is that we’re not just seeing it across clothing, but accessories and footwear too. In fact, “animal print shoes for women” has been an increasing search term on google trends this month.

And I can see why. Because why have a pair of boring black or beige boots when you could have a pair of zebra printed boots instead? And it’s not just boots that are coming in these statement prints. Loafers, ballet flats and of course trainers (let’s not forget the Wales Bonner x adidas Sambas in leopard print) are all getting the animal treatment. The category of shoes I’m perhaps most excited to wear myself, are heels.

The slingback heels from the Jimmy Choo collaboration with designer Connor Ives really do live in my mind rent free. Coming in both brown and black as well as black and white zebra, they’re the perfect blend of cool and chic, and possibly the most perfect pair for party season. Jimmy Choo aren’t the only designers inspired by animal print. Dries van Noten’s snakeskin heels are a slightly more cult option, with its platform sole and slightly square toe.

Have I persuaded you to consider something other than patent, plain leather, mesh or any other fabric when it comes to footwear? If so, see the best animal print shoes for women below.

The Best Animal Print Shoes

1. Loafers

Style Notes: As a big (huge!) loafer lover, they're a pair of shoes I will wear all year. In summer it's with bare legs and little socks, then pointing out of long trousers and jeans in the winter months. As such, black can feel a little heavy in summer, and obvious in winter, so I've really loved seeing such a fun trend liven up a capsule wardrobe shoe staple. Whilst Acne Studios' cow print styles like Rebecca Ferazwyatt has here may be sold out, there are multiple other options on offer, and not just in cow hide! For a more structured pair, look to ASOS, who have many chunky styles in different prints. For something a little more slender, I love the Tod's fluffy driving shoes, as well as Zara's sleek zebra slip-ons.

2. Boots

Style Notes: Boots are a staple in any winter wardrobe, and whether you're on the look out for a flat or heeled pair, square toed or round, there are so many elegant styles in different leopard prints. On the luxury side, I've been saving leopard print iterations from Khaite and Toteme, but Paris Texas' Dalmatian-spotted boots with a sculptural heel offer something just a little different. Similarly, Stradvarius' knee-high pointed pair with a kitten heel offer a less dramatic print in this soft sandy beige hue, and are probably my favourite pair on the high street right now. But if you're looking for an ankle boot, then Anthropologie and Ayede's are strong contenders.

3. Trainers

Style Notes: If you loved the adidas x Wales Bonner Sambas in leopard print, then you'll love these other animal printed trainers. Deer print is set to be the next big trend The Puma Speedcats are one of the most-loved sneakers of the year, and this print gives them a fresh feel. If you're more of a monochromatic black and white person, as opposed to someone loving brown and taupe shades, then Puma's Arizona style in zebra is for you. But if you just want a standard leopard print, then go for Gola!

4. Heels

Style Notes: Party season is around the corner, and in case you forget, you're meant to have fun with your party ensembles. Is there anything more fun than zebra pump? Amina Muaddi's classic Lupita silhouette feels fresh with in this leopard print, and the aforementioned Connor Ives x Jimmy Choo's had to make an appearance too. For more pared back styles that will see you beyond party season and could even be worn in professional settings, look to Toteme and Dries van Noten's wedge heels.

5. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ballet flats have been enjoying a resurgence for some time now, but usually in more simple (and boring) hues like plain black and brown. Parfois' deer print style, I think, is very chic and expensive-looking. So too are Whistles' cow print version. The Gucci red flats with the leather strap are a true fashion-person's ballet flat—I love that they're red! But if you want a designer pair in a more neutral palette, then look to these Valentino Garavini's—I like that they have the small heel.