Love the Leopard Print Trend? You’ll Obsess Over These Animal Prints That Are Just As Chic

For a print that’s supposedly a form of camouflage, leopard sure can be spotted almost anywhere these days. While I’m far from over it (see: my roundup of leopard print bags, shoes, coats, dresses, and more), I do want to call attention back to other animal prints that are just as chic, if not more, than mainstream leopard. Welcome to the stage: zebra, snake, and cow prints.

So, the time has come for you to choose which print is your spirit animal for the season, at least if you’ve seen enough leopard. No need to visit the zoo—it’s already a jungle out there. Ahead, we’ve picked our favorite bags, shoes, and clothes from each print for you to incorporate into your wardrobe, stat.

---

Zebra

I’ll admit I’m a little biased. While I’ve found myself wearing way more leopard print than I ever thought I would, I’ve been a zebra devotee for way longer. Just take a look at the zebra shag rug I’ve been carting from apartment to apartment for years. And if you don’t believe me when I tell you this is a reigning print, refer to the spring/summer 2025 runways of Schiaparelli, Gucci and Caro Editions, who all showcased the joys of the safari animal’s stripes. Zebra print has a playfulness that balances tacky with tasteful. There’s usually no in-between, but that’s just the fun of it. If you’re bold enough to wear zebra print, you’ve got spunk, and if you know how to wear it while staying elevated, you’ve got something even better: attitude.

I always feel a sense of giddiness when I see someone wearing a gorgeous piece of zebra clothing, followed by jealousy…because I want it. Whether it’s swim, outerwear, or your favorite statement skirt, zebra is as versatile as it is bold.

Believe it or not, a vintage zebra bag was the inspiration for this roundup, and really for my obsession with zebra in the first place. The pony hair is becoming a bit worn, and she’s definitely been spilled on a few too many times, but a zebra bag will always go with your outfit, no matter what you’re wearing. I’ve worn clashing colors, all-black, loud prints, and even leopard print with my zebra bag. It always turns out to be a look. Thank you, zebra bag <3

One of my biggest sartorial regrets is not grabbing a pair of pony hair zebra boots (yes, my size) from a closet sale years ago, and it does feel like a hole was left in my wardrobe. Luckily, there are plenty of other options for you to choose from rather than making the same mistake I did. Go chic with a heeled mule or all-out with a thigh-high boot.

---

Snake

Snake print brings the edge. You naturally demand respect when wearing it, and frankly, it wards off those who would otherwise try to walk all over you and think they won’t get bit. Reptilian prints and embossed leathers were also all over the spring/summer 2025 runways, though croc-embossed pieces and python have always been a favorite among exotics lovers.

This is where the true pros come into play. Snake print clothing is not for the weak, but it is a good way to feel even stronger. Whether you go soft in a slip dress or complete-boss in a trench coat, wear it with confidence, and you’re bound to receive plenty of compliments.

Maybe you need to shed something that’s not for you anymore (don’t worry…we all do). Why not reflect that in your wardrobe? Snakeskin bags, whether real or printed, are a great way to enter this world of edgy expression because they can be fun and flirty, but still tough. There’s also just plenty to choose from.

Exotic skins and prints were all over spring/summer 2025 runways, from subtle nods at Fendi and chic accents at Jil Sander to absolute snake-mania at Dries van Noten. Want to make a power move on your next night out? Wear a pair of fierce snakeskin boots. Beyonce just did (with a matching skirt, no less) to promote Kamala Harris’ campaign. Enough said.

---

Cow

Now, for the silly sister. If you think of zebra print as Charli XCX and snake print as Chappell Roan, then cow print (non-derogatory) is definitely Sabrina Carpenter. Sweet with some sass, unintimidating but exclusive, cow print is having a moment. If you’re thinking of the cheap, cartoon-y cow prints of children’s books, think again. Cow print fashion has evolved into something that can be chic, authentic-looking, and flattering, just look at the Instagram account @databutmakeitfashion, which declared cow print the next big pattern of the season.

Sure, no one wants to look like a cow, but dressing like one is very much in. Whether you go more abstract or literal, the key is to find a super chic version of the print. Pro tip: Go for more browns and creams rather than black and white.

You’ve seen the gorgeous cowhide rugs popular in interior design. Now, meet cowhide fashion. Cow print is usually an unexpected choice in personal style, but if you can rock it, you’re automatically the best-dressed at the function. Not necessarily as edgy as zebra or snake, this one can be worn anywhere, anytime—and if we’re talking bags, it’s incredibly versatile. Totes, backpacks, and shoulder bags all look good in the vaguely chic print.

Cow print or pony hair shoes can be a subtle take on the trend or a full statement. There are all kinds of styles you can choose from, from platform sandals to boots.