Top Trends for Winter

By Claire Brayford, Deputy Fashion editor of The Daily Express.

It may be cold outside, but your wardrobe has never looked so hot. Below are the smartest trends to follow this winter so you will be able to enjoy cheap to chic in no time. Whether you are wrapping up in style or preparing to party, we’ve got the colours, shapes and styles to take you through the season in style, and beyond.

1. Invest in precious jewel tones

For a look that is truly priceless, make a break away from the little black dress and invest in dazzling jewel tones. Nothing says ‘party-time’ quite like it. This season, the catwalks were glistening like a treasure trove of amethysts, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Look for simple shapes and minimal embellishment – dresses or contrasting separates – so that the colour loses none of its lustre. Then you can offset it with a contrasting clutch. There is something about these decadent hues that has an air of old-Hollywood glamour - they make you feel instantly luxurious, just be prepared to shine.

2. Don’t forget to hear it for the boys

Many of winter’s slickest looks are borrowed from the boys. Tailored masculine blazers, classic crombie coats with contrasting leather sleeves and pin-sharp pleat-front trousers give your wardrobe a sophisticated edge. It’s about finding the balance between masculine and feminine. So whether your look is more ‘Cabaret’, with a slim-fitting tuxedo jacket with luxurious satin lapels and glittering heels, or more androgynous in the style of Malene Dietrich, this timelessly chic trend is one you cannot ignore. Start simply, by swapping your ballet flats for a more traditional brogue, switch your everyday handbag for a boyish satchel or briefcase bag, or even accessorise with an oversized watch. There really is no excuse for not being suited and booted in style.

3. Follow the call of the wild

Print and texture are both key trends for winter, but the most sensational of them all is snakeskin. It is the most fool-proof way to give your wardrobe classics a modern injection. The look was worn head-to-toe on the catwalks – see Chloe’s knock-out collection – but it works just as well in accents. A sheer chiffon blouse in glamorous python print will add some bite to your workwear, try showing just the collar from beneath a classic knit or using it to update a leather skirt for evening. Slim snakeskin-print jeans look great for a laid-back evening look or simply opt for snakeskin accessories, a pair of faux-snakeskin gloves, an oversized clutch or with Miuccia Prada’s knee-high boots the must-have footwear of the season, a pair of knee-high boots. For once it’s ok to have a slippery side.

4. Add a dash of Forties flair

For a fashion fast-track to style, there is only one decade to know, and that is the Forties. Understated ladylike elegance was a look that will continue through to next spring, so it is definitely worth perfecting now. You can begin your post-war heroine look by experimenting with the new longer hemlines, preferably in a figure-hugging pencil skirt. This silhouette is about looking subtly sexy rather than too obvious. It’s strong but does not compromise your femininity. For the full cinematic effect, invest in an a prettily printed tea dress, team with elbow-length leather gauntlet gloves, a faux-fur stole and a structured box bag. It’s an elegant return to retro glamour that cannot fail to turn heads.

5. Finally, why not enjoy some ‘gilty’ pleasures

Turn out the lights and get ready to shine with winter’s shimmering molten looks. From floor-length gleaming, mega-watt gowns to just a touch of glossy sheen – who can resist a little sparkle at Christmas. For evening, bronze and pewter make a change from traditional silver and gold, while full-on crystal beading or chainmail can make classic cuts go from simple to sensational. For day, a metallic knit, a golden brogue or even a glittering trophy trouser will add an air of polish. Everyone needs a sprinkling of stardust in their wardrobes whatever the occasion, so why not choose a look that puts you straight in the spotlight.