Cheetah or leopard print shoes? Spotting the difference can be tricky! Both prints feature similar warm tones and patterns, so it’s no surprise they’re often confused. But don’t worry — we’re here to clarify things and help you distinguish between the two.

This image compares leopard and cheetah prints: the leopard print (left) has irregular black rosettes, while the cheetah print (right) features evenly spaced solid black spots

What Makes Leopard Print Unique?

Leopard print is defined by its signature rosette-shaped spots: black markings that form a circle or horseshoe shape around a darker center, all set against a golden-yellow background.

Unlike shoe styles, sizes, or colors, which often vary, leopard print tends to remain consistent. A perfect example? These chic calf hair pointed-toe pumps from Sam Edelman showcase the classic leopard print beautifully:

Leopard Print Sam Edelman ‘Hazel’ Pumps, $48.00 – $140.00

What Sets Cheetah Print Apart?

Cheetah print...