It's edging closer to autumn, so it's about time you were thinking about your new season wardrobe.

Naturally, the trends were all planned months ago and AW18 clothing ideas were marched down runways at fashion weeks across the world, but it's now time for you to take notice.

What are the key trends for autumn/winter 2018?

Animal Print

Animal print in all its many forms is THE trend to nail this season.

It was seen all over the runways at the likes of Max Mara, Balenciaga and Tom Ford, plus the high street is covered and spots and stripes right now, it's hard to miss it.

Pleats

We love pretty pleats.

They're flirty and give a skirt or dress more fluid movement when you walk.

The look was all over the catwalk at the likes of Joseph, and JW Anderson and Balenciaga.

Metallics

Silver and golds always seem to creep in in the winter – they're perfect for Christmas parties and this season there is no change on that front.

From Balmain to Christian Dior, all the huge fashion houses were showing it on their runways.

Capes

Capes came to town several years ago and then dwindled away again, but if you loved the look you're in luck as it's back for autumn.

Female empowerment has been at the forefront of people's thoughts, the news and social media, especially with more and more discussions about closing the gender pay gap happening throughout the world.

Seen at the likes of Erdem, Missoni and Isabel Marant, it's going to be a key piece to own.

Invest in a new one if you didn't keep hold of your old pieces.

Leather dresses

Leather is a very cold snap-appropriate material as it'll keep you cosy.

This season it won't just be jackets hitting the shelf in the material as it's all about the leather dress – think heavy shirt dresses and belted minis in varying shades.

It was spotted at Alexander McQueen, Miu Miu and Givenchy so you know it's going to catch on on the high street too.

What is the best way to wear each trend for AW18?

Top-to-toe

The coolest way to don leopard print it is head-to-toe, if you dare.

Alternatively, go bright with a red leopard print or a blue zebra stripe – the louder the better.

With attittude

This season, it's all about shaking up the classic femininity of the pleat by pairing your piece with chunky trainers or boots or an oversized jumper to create contrast.

There's nothing dainty about the pleated look this season.

By looking into the future

This season's metallic feel is all about a futuristic vibe.

Think tip-to-toe metallics, including your footwear, holographic materials and disc sequin finishes that exude a space feel.

Giving it structure

The cape shows power and presence, especially when it's a structured or heavy version, but your favourite style will work just fine.

Making it grown-up

Wear your leathers with less of a biker chick attitude and more of a sophisticated feel.

We're talking belted maxi shirt dresses, slimline pencil dresses, pleated midis and high-necked minis.

Where can I buy pieces that nail the new season trends?

Animal print

Red Leopard Print Frill Sleeve Dress, £22 from Missguided – buy now

Pleats

Colour Block Pleat Midi Skirt, £42 from Topshop – buy now

Metallics

Sequin Panel Oversized T-shirt Dress, £28 from Boohoo – buy now

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