"If there is one look this season that I would claim as my favourite then it would be this week's Catwalk Challenge look, monochrome. Black and white or indeed black and cream are such a classic combination, which regularly appear our catwalks, making any item of clothing you invest in, something that will pay style dividends for many seasons to come.

"So let's talk longevity. Basically a well-made blouse, dress or even a jacket in a great looking monochrome print will mean you'll be able to get it out time and time again. It has an elegance and sophistication that harks back to the 50s and 60s. And if you want to update your wardrobe but are on a limited budget then a trend like monochrome is a better bet that some of the shorter lived ones.

"Of course all the high streets have created their take on the look but a high street item is produced in hundreds of thousands units - lots of others will have the garment you have picked out for yourself too, but if you want to wear something time and time again and season after season the best way is to buy vintage. There are now lots of second hand shops and vintage stalls. It's here that you find one offs and exciting or unusual designs.

"I have a wonderful Fifties three-quarter length black and white coat that I've had for many seasons. I wore it to fashion week last season and probably will again this coming September and I got married in it seven years ago (I'm sure I've done loads of other things in it too). But I got it in a second hand shop in Leeds. When I saw it I knew it would work well with everything I own because it was a well made piece of clothing. Looking for vintage clothing can take a bit of time but the reward of having a one off that no-body else has is so worth it so here are my top tips for buying good vintage. Happy rummaging."

Do a small amount of research first and familiarise yourself with the cuts of the fifties and sixties so you know what to look for. The Fifties and Seventies were the most flattering for curvy bodies and the sixties and eighties cuts were better suited to willowy shapes. There are often real designer bargains to be had as people turn out their grandmother's wardrobes.

Look the item of clothing you are intending to buy all over, to check for wear and tear. There may be a ripped lining or some kind of damage in a place that you can't immediately see. If it is a blouse check the seam under the arms is not fraying or worn.

Feel for the weight of the garment on the hanger. Anything that is of quality or natural fibre will be heavier than a synthetic version. Something that was made forty years ago will have had to be made from good quality fabrics to have survived all this time.

Look at the label inside this is often an indication of the age of the garment. The graphics and the typography give it away. This can help you to date the item.

Look at trims and finishes button made or wood, horn; metal and mother or pearl often adorn items of clothing made with care. You want to avoid plastic buttons.

Check that any fastenings on the garment work as these often wear out first. There were lots of cumbersome metals zips back then. If they don't bring this to the attention of the seller for a reduction and then take the item of clothing to a good dry cleaner to get the zip replaced for a modern plastic one which will be much more comfortable.

Above all take the time to try on the garment, as it still needs to fit you well at the end of the day. Happy rummaging!"