By Crystel Bailey

MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Update wardrobes this fall with preppie styles and shiny fabrics, but don't throw away those animal prints just yet.

Everlyn Johnson, apparel and textile program leader with Mississippi State University's Extension Service, said to look for animal prints, plaids, gold jewelry and leather this fall.

"Animal prints are bigger than ever this fall, despite the fact they have been around for the past few seasons. Leopard, cheetah, zebra, tiger and cow prints have tipped into home furnishing, accessories and children's clothing," Johnson said.

She said fashion repeats looks about every 33 years. Look for fashions from the late '30s, early '40s, late '60s and early '70s, such as the cable-knit sweaters and plaid skirts.

"You'll even see different patterns of plaids put together on the same skirt, but each patch will be in the same color family," Johnson said.

Gold is making a reappearance this season. Look for gold shoes, accessories and clothing.

She said pure leather and faux leather will be popular this season, but some will have a higher sheen than normal.

"Expect a lot of embellishment, such as flowers and butterflies, on clothing. Look for a lot of borders and edge treatments on clothing, too," Johnson said.

She said floral prints in deeper tones will be common, as well as paisley prints.

"Denim never goes out of style, but this season, you'll see a softer denim. You'll also see gathered denim pants and skirts," Johnson said.

Other fall fashion items include jackets that stop at the hip bone, fun detailing on clothing and accessories, asymmetrical looks on pants and dress suits, matching three-piece ensembles, noticeable zippers, detailing on the backs of skirts, retro '70s pants suits, full height boots and pant boots, fabrics with luster and sheen, ornate belts, fabric and suede shoes, belted-trench coats, and chiffon shirts and dresses.

Many of this season's colors are classic, which means they never go out of style.

"Black is a must-have color. Look for deeper reds, such as garnet. Navy and royal blue will be popular, as well as tweed. Straw or oatmeal is in, too," Johnson said.

Other classic colors include brown, white, forest and olive greens, mauve, teal, plum and burgundy.

Tailored looks in wool, silk and cotton fibers will be strong. Boiled wool and corduroy fabrics are two that will be in style this fall.

"If you want to be able to wear your clothing for more than a season or two, buy classic colors and styles," Johnson said. "The classic cardigan-jacket (V or round necklines), the Chanel suit, simple straight dresses with matching jackets and the standard blazer are clothing items that never go out of style."