Autumn/Winter 08 Study Guide. Part 1: The Trends.

1. LONDON GIRL -esque goth, grunge and punk was on everyone's runways for this season, marking a drastic change from the day-glo and neons of this summer's brights. Here's how to wear bad girl black...

• Lace : even small touches of black lace are enough to make an outfit bang on trend this season. Hold off the accessories with this trend as the lace is decorative enough. To keep lace looking modern, team with leathers.
• Gothic : High necklines and Maxi lengths are super-chic. Ruffles, chiffon and layers add dark, romantic appeal.
• The LBD : Is the wardrobe staple of the season, and killer heels and super-sparkly jewels are still its perfect companions! This season, make yours uber-mini, strapless, knee-length or one-shouldered.

2. HERITAGE inspired prim and proper dressing is back in a big way, with everything from your grandmother's jewels to headscarves and military jackets on every fashionista's wish list. Ch-ch-ch-check it out...

• Tartan : is a winter tradition, but can be livened up by wearing plaids of violet, orange, turquoise or emerald, or mix-matched with contrasting checks for a more modern way to wear.
• Military: This is a strict, buttoned-up style, so soften the look with a frilled blouse or chiffon skirt. Match with long leather boots to complete the look, or match with metallic leggings for a modern look. Remember - this mess dress, not combat.
• Country Lady-like style is more of a mini-trend, particularly in head-wear: headscarves. But they can also be ties around the neck to complete the prim look, teamed with gloves, bag, belt and heels at all times!

3. EMBELISHMENT is huge, literally. But how you wear it depends on where you wear it…

• Jewels : should be old school heirlooms. If it came from your Grandma’s jewelry box, (or just looks like it did) then it sticks!
• Shoes: check out embellished pumps for both evening and day-wear. Plastic, OTT gems are ideal here.

4. NEW POWER DRESSING super-sharp tailoring makes you look like you mean business, and with the new season comes a whole series of new silhouettes alongside perfectly-cut suits…

• Stilettos : make like it’s the eighties and get your hands (or should that be feet?) on a pair of pointy-toed stilettos to look and feel the business.
• Pared-back : is the perfect way to wear this trend, which in turn lends itself to The Statement Necklace in its own simplicity. Keep your shades in autumn-inspired colours like plum, mocha, navy or black.

IN PART 2: HOW TO WEAR: FROM CATWALK TO CAMPAIGN TO CLOSET