Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover.

Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover.

      Each season, one or two animal prints inevitably emerge as favorites, typically including leopard, snakeskin, or crocodile—sometimes all three. Occasionally, cow print, zebra print, and lizard skin also capture interest. However, at the moment, a more subtle pair of animal prints is gaining traction, proving to be far more stylish than any we've seen in a while. These lesser-known prints? Eel and ostrich—two exotic leathers that have recently attracted the fashion world’s attention and are quietly making a strong impact. Apologies to other animal prints, but these two are rising to the top of every wishlist this season.

      I first became aware of eel print when Fendi showcased several pieces crafted from this leather in its Fall/Winter 2025 show back in February. This collection included a brown-and-black chevron-pattern dress and skirt paired with matching boots and a bag. I took nearly 100 photos of the items, captivated by the uniqueness of the print. Since that time, I've seen it featured by Khaite, Ferragamo, and The Row, along with more affordable brands like J.Crew, Reformation, and Massimo Dutti, utilizing a combination of faux and genuine leather embossed to resemble eel.

      I've always had an interest in ostrich print, as I frequently find vintage Prada items that showcase it while browsing eBay, the RealReal, and Poshmark. More recently, Balenciaga has utilized it on their popular Rodeo bag and various shoe designs at Khaite. Tory Burch added a playful twist by embossing and glazing polyester to replicate the texture of authentic ostrich leather, creating shift dresses and car coats.

      To familiarize you with the animal prints of 2026 (and the remainder of 2025), I’ve compiled a selection of the best versions available in the market thus far. But believe me, much more is on the horizon. Every brand will soon be experimenting with ostrich and eel prints on shoes, bags, dresses, coats, skirts, and beyond.

      **Eel Print**

      *J.Crew*

      Scoopneck Mini Dress in Faux Eel-Skin Leather

      This dress is currently on sale. Incredible.

      *The Row*

      Clasp Sunglasses Case in Eel

      Another bag from The Row that’s set to become an It item.

      These high-vamp pumps are extraordinarily chic. No wonder they are selling out so fast.

      *AllSaints*

      Asha Eel-Embossed Leather Shoulder Bag

      *LIFFNER*

      Belted Eel Clutch

      I've been looking for a stylish, unique clutch for ages. This one is ideal.

      *J.Crew*

      Collection A-Line Skirt in Faux Eel-Skin Leather

      This eel-print skirt is perfect for the holiday season.

      *Reformation*

      Inez Ballet Flats

      *KHAITE*

      Bobbi Eel Shoulder Bag

      This is definitely a want, not a need.

      *Fendi*

      Show Genuine Eel Wedge Mule

      The peep toes! The color! The eel print! I've been contemplating these for months.

      *FERRAGAMO*

      Small Hug Eelskin Leather Handbag

      Just when you thought the Hug bag couldn’t get any more appealing.

      *Massimo Dutti*

      Embossed Leather High-Heel Ankle Boots

      **Ostrich Print**

      *Massimo Dutti*

      Ostrich Print Leather Ballet Flats

      A simple pair of flats sure to earn you daily compliments.

      *Róhe*

      Ostrich Satin Column Skirt

      This skirt is at the top of my shopping list for 2026.

      *BLACK SUEDE STUDIO*

      Mac 70 Wedge

      Just pair with vintage jeans and a trendy jacket.

      *Balenciaga*

      Rodeo Ostrich Embossed Leather Top Handle Bag

      I've never desired a handbag as much as I desire this ostrich leather Rodeo bag.

      *KHAITE*

      Jane Ostrich Leather Flats

      These low-profile slippers are also available in turquoise! I can’t decide which color is better.

      *Massimo Dutti*

      Ostrich Print Leather Court Shoes

      Some classic court shoes suitable for virtually everything.

      *Tory Burch*

      Textured Dress

      This is a dress that needs to be seen in person to truly appreciate.

      *BLACK SUEDE STUDIO*

      Jazz 70 Sandal

Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover. Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover.

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Not Snakeskin, Not Crocodile—These Two Overlooked Animal Prints Are Subtly Executing a Fashion Takeover.

From J.Crew to Khaite.