The longevity of animal print has long surpassed what we can consider a fashion trend. Long before trend cycles and fast-fashion, animal print moved across cultures and continents. Today, it has cemented itself as one of the smartest pieces you can pack on any trip.
I always pack at least one animal-printed item in my suitcase, whether it’s a zebra handbag or a cheetah flat. I do this because it’s stylish, but also because it’s an effortless way to spruce up any outfit. Animal prints like leopard, snakeskin, and cow print might look busy on paper, but in practice, they behave like a neutral. These prints go with every color and fabric in my carry-on: black, white, red, denim, linen, you name it. You can dress animal print up, wear it down, or let it talk while everything else in your capsule wardrobe stays simple. One piece of clothing or accessory with a bold print can carry an entire look from a morning stroll down London’s cobblestone streets to a rooftop dinner in Paris. And for travelers, this type of versatility helps you pack less and wear more.
A brief history of animal print
Animal print traveled far before it ever hit our Instagram feeds. Egyptian hieroglyphics from 1290 to 1224 BC show leopard skins worn by royalty and warriors. In Zulu culture, leopard fur suggests elevated social status. And by the 1930s, Hollywood brought animal print to the big screen: Movie stars like Joan Crawford and major films like Tarzan and the Ape Man made prints more mainstream, while pin-ups and corseted dresses in leopard and snake patterns signaled confidence and sex appeal.
The first appearance of leopard print on the runway was by Christian Dior. Post-World War II in 1947, Dior’s “New Look” showcase included a jungle theme, elevating leopard into high fashion that would later be worn by femme fatale icons like Eartha Kitt and Marilyn Monroe. In the 1980s, designers including Alexander McQueen, Roberto Cavalli, and Dolce & Gabbana continued to reinterpret the trend—turning a potentially rebellious motif into sophisticated, city-ready style. Even in the early 2000s, when pop culture flirted with tackiness and Y2K maximalism (we all watched Jersey Shore, right?), animal print persisted, reimagined through thoughtful styling and the creativity of designers and street style alike.
Today, animal print is both expressive and endlessly practical. I pack a snakeskin-printed boot the same way I pack denim or a great jacket. On busy streets everywhere from Milan to New York City, you’ll see it styled subtly: a leopard flat under tailored pants, a cheetah belt with simple jean, or a printed scarf tucked under a long wool coat. They add texture, edge, and a hint of playful rebellion, without ever feeling costume-y. Below, 14 staples embracing the always-in-style trend to pack on your next getaway.
Animal print finds we love
For a memorable coat you can wear from day to night, the Karlie trench from Cara Cara is a statement piece. Versatile, trendy, and lightweight enough to pack, the jacket features a peak lapel collar and a removable sash belt.
Gap
Stride corduroy wide-leg pants
Gap’s high-rise corduroy pants are a fall and winter staple. This wide0leg pair moves with you—offering a stretch tech design while still appearing fitted and flattering. Known as the brand’s most comfortable authentic denim, the pair also comes in various colors and designs.
Loved and well-reviewed by loads of trendy shoppers, this pair of kitten heels has been restocked by Dolce Vita countless times since its release. Available in leopard mesh, these Cleo mule heels are both classy and cool. With a low two-inch heel, they are a lightweight and an easy-to-walk-in addition to your suitcase for destination weddings or fancy dinners.
Designed in Barcelona with fine knit fabric, this animal print sweater is a fashionable way to stay cozy this winter. The soft material is complete with a medium brown and off-white pattern—a subtle yet wild-inspired design that can help elevate a business trip look.
Parker Thatch
The Micro Jane tote
This statement bag was designed for versatility as much as it was style. Comfortably fitting your phone, keys, and a small wallet, the Micro Jane in a dotted leopard design carries your everyday essentials with personality. It’s all about thoughtful design here, from its secure button snap closure to its interior slip pocket. Not to mention, the gold D-rings along the side allow for customization; you can add a long strap, bag charms, and accessories.
Simon Miller
Pia poplin pant
The best-selling Pia Poplin zebra print pants speak for themselves. The mid-rise, wide-leg design is a bold addition to a simple look. Lucky for you, they are also available in brown and black leopard.
Dolce Vita
Animal print scarf
This light and airy scarf from Dolce Vita can be styled with anything. The brown multi-color scarf blends leopard and zebra prints together for an earthy neutral design that goes with everything. Wear it is a neck-scarf with a trench coat or tie it in your hair or to a purse—et voila—your effortlessly chic look is complete.
Cozy and cute, this oversized leopard jacket from H&M is the cherry on top of any outfit. Made with a woven fabric with a brushed finish, it’s a durable design for its lower price tag. A tool to spruce up any outfit, it’s complete with a sophisticated collar and welt front pockets with a flap. (If you can snag it before it sells out, there’s also a leopard midi skirt to match.)
Schutz
Maryann calf hair bootie
With an effortless silhouette, sculpted heel, and a well-made leather material, Schutz’s Maryann booties are a fun take on the Westernwear trend. Whether you’re headed to work or a dinner outing, these spotted, Dalmatian print–inspired boots will keep you looking the part and feeling comfortable.
Mango’s leopard print blouse emulates sophisticated style. Complete with a funnel neck, attached scarf embellishment, as well as long sleeves with buttoned cuffs, this top can be paired with any pair of pants or a skirt.
This Vero Moda soft scarf is made for those who want to say warm in style. The cozy accessory offers a unique brown zebra print and a tassel trim for a sweet and subtle touch. Its oversized fit lets it double as a warm blanket scarf to wear on the plane or a road trip.
Puma
Speedcat wild ballet flat
I have these bad boys myself and can honestly say that they are as comfortable as they are fun. A ballet flat-merged-sneaker, these Pumas are most definitely having a moment—most evident for me on the streets of NYC. The leopard design completes any casual outfit.
Damson Madder
Quilted leopard tote
This Damson Madder tote from Anthropologie is meant to be worn and worn again. With a light quilted fabric, this travel essential can easily be folded and tucked in your suitcase just in case.
