A/W

This season we are spoilt for choice when it comes to the different trends we can adopt. From a quick look at the high fashion catwalk shows of Milan, Paris, London and New York, it’s clear that our A/W inspirations are taken from the 40s and 60s. Add to this Jewel Tones, Androgyny and Fetish (but to name a few) and we’re onto a winner. Here’s a run down of this season’s key trends and how to wear them to maximise your style points. Yes, that’s like Brownie points. But better.

The 1940s was a decade of glamour and sophistication on the fashion front. Think pearls, pencil skirts and pussy bow blouses. This season’s designers, such as Gucci and Prada (see pic), have borrowed the look and centred it around the simple pencil skirt. Wear yours with seamed hosiery and high, high heels, for a sexy yet demure look. Warning: you may feel ever so slightly like you’re dressed to be an extra in Miss Marple. But embrace it. Every fashionista worth her cashmere socks is rocking this look during the winter months.

Second wave feminism, a sexual revolution, Twiggy, The Beatles and the bikini – it was all happening in the 1960s. So natch, we're revisiting the look to brighten up our bleak winter months. Knee-high boots, bracelet length sleeves, big buttons and structured coats are staples. This decade also incorporates the androgynous look rather nicely. But ladies, do keep your brassiere on. We live in Britain and it's just too cold for that nonsense.

To go for an androgynous look, it's really all about structure and shape. Wear oversized boyfriend blazers to create a more masculine silhouette. Add to this tapered trousers and a good pair of brogues. Brogues are the new ballet pump, don't y'know. Oh and they really are very warm. If you choose to borrow your male friend's clothing, all the better. Just make sure not to swamp your frame. You'll be left looking two sizes bigger than you are, rather than a chic man-lady. Or lady-man. Your choice.

Fetish wear is not for the shy or timid. Marc Jabobs went big for this trend during his catwalk shows, and so should we. But there's a limit. Don't go wandering down the high street in your best Anne Summers PVC items *shudders at the thought*. Instead opt for black lace, or blocks of leather. Note I said leather. Faux-leather and pleather are not acceptable. You will sweat and the clothes will shrink. Fact. Add chunky and structured jewellery, to complete your madam look.

So for this A/W remember: it's not all about keeping warm. Have a flick through your Vogue, decide what trend is for you, and go for it. Old baggy jumpers and scruffy Ugg boots are banned.

We should be raiding our Gran's wardrobes. Fact.

This A/W season us fashionistas are taking style tips from decades gone by. The 40s and 60s were a huge influence on the catwalks and that has trickled down to the high-street. Pussy bow blouses, high waisted pencil skirts, petite neck scarves, chunky knits, masculine blazers and all-in-one jumpsuits, are on the style cards, but to name a few. This writer know exactly where to go for them - and it's not Topshop. Shock of shocks, I know. The answer? Raid your granny's wardrobe.

Let's take a step back here. I am in no way suggesting that readers should start donning sensible shoes and knee-length tweed skirts. By all means, if you can rock it, go for it. But Anna Wintour won't be giving you a pat on the back any time soon. Gran's and often our Mother's are the best source for some original vintage clothing. Why, you ask? Well for one they come from a generation of hoarders. My own Gran still has her daughter's smelly afghan coat from the 70s - *collective shudder*. Secondly clothes were more expensive and made better, therefore they lasted longer.

So head on down to your relative's attics, basements and cupboards. You're sure to find a veritable treasure chest (or at least tatty cardboard box) of classic attire, fit for any vintage lover. Mix the pieces with newer items, for example an old cable knit jumper with super skinny black jeans, to avoid looking like you've just rolled around in Oxfam, covered in sticky tape. After a bit of foraging you will have just cheaply and cheerfully updated your A/W wardrobe. And you'll gain brownie points for visiting your lovely old Nan. Win, win.