Abstract: Starting from the concept of 4D printing technology, this paper summarized the definition and development process of 4D printing, and introduced the characteristics of 4D printing and 3D printing technologies. The application prospect of 4D printing was elaborated from the perspective of the types and incentive methods of intelligent materials for 4D printing, and the application advantages of 4D printing technology in leather goods design were then deeply analyzed. Finally, a case study was conducted on the use of 4D printing technology in leather shoe soles, upper and PU swimwear decoration, and the prospect for the research direction of 4D printing bag was proposed.