By Pamela Kieck Fashion Columnist Published Aug 23, 2018 at 5:16 PM

We are coming upon my favorite time of the year: fall! The crispy air, the falling leaves and all of the fashion moments are just a few things that I love about this season.

For me, fall fashion is always a little darker, a little edgier and a lot more my style – and this year's fall trends do not disappoint! Here are the top trends that you need in your wardrobe.

1. Animal print

This trend is back in full force! Colorful animal print, as well as your standard cheetah print, are all over the runway and is actually seen used as a neutral on a lot of outfits.

PRO TIP: Using animal print as a neutral will work great for the heavy pattern mixing trend that you will see later in this article.

2. Plaid and tweed

Plaid is a staple for fall – always has been and probably always will be. But this year it's a bigger wardrobe must than it's EVER been in previous years. Plaid is simply EVERYWHERE on the runway.

PRO TIP: Want a fun and exciting way to wear plaid? How about mixing multiple plaids together! 

3. Western-inspired

Yippie! Time to cowgirl up with this trend! Western-inspired looks were seen down the runway and are hitting the stores just in time for fall.

PRO TIP: Don't go overkill on this trend. Add some western details to your looks by having one or two western-inspired pieces. There is a fine line in this trend from looking chic and looking like Jessie from "Toy Story 2." 

4. Print mixing

Here is where you can go WILD! Mixing prints is a great way to add dimension and sass to an outfit. Previously I have done a "rules" of print mixing on the blog, but this season, the style world wants you to throw the rules out the window and mix prints until your heart is content!

PRO TIP: Use stripes and leopard as a neutral when mixing prints for easy and effortless styling. 

5. Shearling

This is the coziest of the trends this season. Shearling jackets, vest, boots and accessories are coming in hot this season – and they're not only gonna keep you warm on a crisp fall night, but they'll also have you right on trend for the season! 

PRO TIP: Pair your shearling jacket with a white long sleeve, black jeans, booties and wide brimmed hat for the perfect go-to casual look! 

Pamela Kieck Fashion Columnist
Pamela Kieck is a Milwaukee based fashionista and is the founder of the fashion, beauty and lifestyle website itspamelakieck.com Pamela has always found herself with an intense interest in style,body positivity, and empowering women to live their best life all while looking fabulous!

Pamela has recently been named an Influencer by Vogue magazine, and is a Social Media Influencer for Cosmopolitan magazine. She enjoys a recurring gig on Milwaukee's Fox 6 Real Milwaukee as a Style/ Beauty expert.

Pamela is bold, outspoken and doesn't take herself too seriously. She is a dog mom to 2 puppies, Cooper and Winston. She can't live without mascara, oversized sunglasses and a lavender latte from Stone Creek Coffee.

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