Looking for something to spice up your classic black outfit? Why not a classy pair of leopard print shoes?

If you are reluctant to wear animal prints because you fear the animals themselves have been harmed, then take heart. No more are jungle cats like the leopard hunted for their skins to make clothing. Instead, the design of their beautiful coats has been copied onto fabrics and leathers to create a whole range of attractive footwear.

In fact, animal prints such as leopard have withstood the test of time to become fashion classics. Some couture experts say that clothing such as leopard print shoes are now as timeless and appropriate as basic black.

There's a trick to wearing animal prints, though. Always remember that a little animal print can go a long way.

For example, suppose you're wearing a fabulous LBD (Little Black Dress), but you'd like to give your outfit a touch of the wild. A fine pair of leopard shoes could be just the thing to bring out the animal in you.

Another terrific option today is to pair your leopard print high heels with a pair of denim jeans. There are fashionistas out there who will simply swoon with delight at this combination!

If high heels aren't your thing, don't despair. You can still heed the call of the wild with leopard print shoes in a variety of styles. These prints have shown up on everything from athletic shoes to low-heeled slip-ons to sandals in recent years. All you have to do is seek them out.

Be careful when choosing your leopard print shoes, however. Always be very picky about how well the animal print pattern is designed; you'll lose that sense of jungle authenticity if your animal actually looks more like a jaguar. To be sure you're getting a good print, look for dark brown or black rosettes closely spaced together, without black centers (that's a jaguar trait).

If the design passes the test, however, don't hesitate: Pounce on those leopard print shoes and give your wardrobe some jungle boogie.