How to Style an Animal Print Dress with Shoes
Some decisions seem simple—until it comes time to put them into practice. You stand in front of the mirror, wearing that animal print dress that makes you feel powerful, wild, unstoppable… but then you pause. Heels or sneakers? Minimalist sandals or statement boots?
That small choice can elevate your look or completely ruin it, and you know it.
Choosing the right shoes to pair with an animal print dress isn’t just a matter of aesthetics—it’s a matter of attitude. Today, we’ll show you how to turn this bold print into a flawless fashion statement, no matter your style or the occasion. You might be surprised to discover that some unexpected combinations work better than the classic ones.
Sandals with an Animal Print Dress
Yes, an animal print dress can also be paired with sandals. And we’re not just talking about summer. This combination works perfectly for warm weather, but with the right model, it can also be suitable for spring or even autumn.
A fail-safe option is thin-strapped sandals. The more minimalist, the better. In neutral colors like black, beige, or off-white, they provide the perfect counterpoint to a long, patterned dress. Especially if the dress is flowy or voluminous, sandals give it a fresh and elongated silhouette.
You can also take it a step further. Platform sandals or retro-inspired styles pair wonderfully with midi-length or shirt-style animal print dresses. This mix is very trendy and gives the look a casual yet polished vibe.
If your dress features leopard, zebra, or snake print, don’t try to match the exact color. Opt for neutral tones like sand, camel, off-white, or even a subtle olive green. Avoid fluorescent or overly bright shades, as they can disrupt the harmony of the outfit.
Animal Print Dresses with Sneakers
Without a doubt, this is one of the most unexpected yet successful combinations of recent years: dresses with sneakers. It’s the ultimate proof that animal print has evolved from a symbol of sophistication to a versatile, urban wardrobe staple.
Classic white sneakers, without bold logos, are the best choice if it’s your first time trying this mix. They work well with short or long dresses, fitted or flowy. The result is a comfortable, modern look with a casual edge — perfect for everyday wear.
If you’ve already experimented with this style and want to take it up a notch, go for chunkier or retro-inspired sneakers. Keep the colors neutral — white, beige, light grey, or even black. The goal isn’t to compete with the dress, but to balance the outfit.
This combination is also ideal for styling a leopard print dress in winter. Pair it with neutral sneakers and an oversized shirt in dark tones for an effortlessly stylish look.
Styling Boots with an Animal Print Dress
Now we’ve reached the wild card of almost every season: boots. They are the ideal choice for fall and winter, but their versatility allows them to be worn even in spring when the weather permits. And they pair wonderfully with animal print dresses.
Tall boots, especially wide-calf suede styles, create a slender and elegant silhouette. They work particularly well with long or midi dresses, especially in leopard or snake prints. The contrast between the dress fabric and the boot texture adds richness to the look without making it feel heavy.
On the other hand, ankle boots are perfect for urban and slightly more casual looks. If you’re wearing a short or straight-cut animal print dress, black or brown ankle boots with a small heel might be all you need. You can even experiment with white ankle boots if the dress is more neutral.
For a bolder approach, try cowboy-style boots. They work well with flowy dresses and bolder prints, adding a bohemian and daring touch without losing sophistication.
As you can see, styling an animal print dress with shoes isn’t an exact science, but it is a matter of balance, intention, and personal style. The secret lies in understanding what message you want to convey with your outfit and choosing footwear that complements it without overshadowing it.
If you want every step to make a statement, Pedro Miralles offers the perfect selection of shoes for each of these looks. Are you ready to discover which pair suits you best?
Get ready to wear your animal print dress in style — with your favorite shoes.