It’s the time of the year when Fashion week starts again showcasing what we will be wearing next Spring/Summer 2018 this takes place in New York, London, Milan and Paris although for now let’s look at what is already in the shops for Autumn/Winter 2017 and how does one make the looks we see on the catwalk work for our body type? not everyone has the slender limbs of a model but there are ways that you can update your wardrobe with a few statement pieces or an accessory from a designer that you know works well for you, here are some simple style tips.

Always buy one piece that you really like and something that you know will last for a long time and that you can re-invent and update with other more disposable elements so think longevity and quality, make sure that you select items that are flattering to your shape but who are also age appropriate and fit in with your lifestyle check that the fabric is of good quality, look at the neckline, the finishing and the cut of it and how it feels to the touch the classic pieces will make your wardrobe timeless like a white shirt, a pencil skirt, well cut trousers, a bomber jacket, a tuxedo jacket, fitted ankle boots and the essential piece of jewellery which can be earrings, a necklace or a watch not forgetting the all essential handbag. Affordable luxury is everywhere nowadays so why not invest in some statement accessories like the Longines Flagship Heritage 1957 a men’s watch which can be worn by women too an looks great with a sharp white shirt, or a stylish Marco Bicego Lunar ring with grey mother of pearl or some exceptional Brasile Orchid Earring by Anna & Alex a classic leather handbag by Aspinall of London and last but not least some cool Bowie or slouchy boots by Gina Couture.

Wear it with a twist at Mulberry: Checks and Oversize jackets and coats are all references from history and heritage with a nod to the 1970’s English Countryside. Go from Day into the Night with high necklines and high waisted skirts. Trousers are worn with braces this season which provides a chic and more strict silhouette at Temperley still retains her romanticism which her designs are so well known and adding a touch of floral and filigree embellishments. Expect the unexpected at Pam Hogg latex coats, sequin jumpsuits and long dresses and a floaty sheer red dress a la Marylin Monroe with a sexy alter neck, military uniforms, platform shoes and a high shine finish to complete this unique looks by this talented designer.

Charlotte Olympia launched her accessory collection with a film noir Premier at the Curzon Cinema in London aptly named: “An Accessory to Murder” featuring leopard shoes, a Mary Jane Doe shoes and some kitten heel killer red satin strappy and glamorous 1940’s style shoe and last and not the stunning and fabulous handbags. The wearable and the not so wearable are part of Molly Goddard fantasy cosmos which is welcome in this turbulent world with trapeze tops rushed tulle and leggings voluminous wide gowns and ruffles with oversized babydolls and everything to play with in aqua and coral colours.

The mood is futuristic and strong at Versus Versus Versace with loud music, dry Ice machines and strobe lights, Gigi Hadid opens the show wearing a black mini sweater dress with shoulder padding to give it a rounded exaggerated shape, silver zips details and sky high ankle boots, fluffy jumpers and lot’s of black leather follows with hints of metallic details turquoise and shocking pink and lot’s of heavy black eye make up. A sophisticated approach at Ports 1961 with clean lines and architectural designs with textured and raw edges, giant sequins, knitwear and a sober palette with hints of colours such as red, pale yellow and white quilted style vests, capes, wide trousers, A line shapes loose and comfortable a Japanese warrior style workwear meets style.

The Gothic Romantic style of Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Autumn Winter 2017 is an empowered Victoriana silhouette with references to the Suffragettes with ruching on high neck shirts,transparencies, ruffles, florals and billowing trousers a beautiful poetic collection. Opulence and craftsmanship go hand in hand in this attention grabbing collection by Julien Macdonald which is all about being yourself and living a modern life gowns are knitted from silver thread and embellished with sequins, lace mini dresses and sheer dresses with feathers motifs and silver edging also not forgetting the men catwalking with cut outs top with sequin and beadings and leather trousers.

Burberry is a global luxury brand which is in 2nd year of presenting the see now buy now concept to make it more available to everyone around the world this season the collection has a tactile and comfortable feel to it with a selection of varied looks each one making statement in its own right, mainly

black white and greys and all inspired by the Sculptor Henry Moore with round soft shapes, ruffles, lace, knits and shearling overcoats worn with crisp white dresses shirting. The shows end with a splendid selection of couture capes with feathers, beading, crystals and are all one offs and part of an exhibition travelling around the globe.

16Arlington is the vision of the young and good looking duo Marco Capaldo and Federica Cavenati. Juxtaposing minimalist lines with rich feminine detail, 16Arlington reimagines the possibilities of ready-to-wear. Defined by a high-fashion, directional aesthetic, it can be mixed, matched and transformed as the wearer wishes. Embracing a forward-thinking, fluid approach to dressing, Marco and Kikka have created garments that are interchangeable. From the understated collarini, to detachable ruffle trims, it translates couture into a ready-to-wear space. Soft, languid silhouettes are met with decadent detail. Feminine embellishments decorate tailored lines. While best described as affordable luxury, each piece is crafted with expert artistry, one of a kind and one to watch.