"This retro look is perfect for creating glamorous and feminine silhouettes, as well as being practical - and practicality is what it's all about in my book because, as the weather gets colder, the compulsion to wrap up and keep out the drafts becomes much stronger.

"I've answered lots of style questions on my site howtolookgood.com, this month and if you are as keen to know all about this trend as my readers are, then let me set out the look - it's one I've been test driving myself.

"There are key fabrics and colours to this trend so anything that has a tweed effect is perfect and colours like rich browns, jades, berries and purples are also part of the look.

"If there is one accessory you can buy to rejuvenate some of your existing wardrobe, make it a leather belt that will cinch in your waist. When you wear it over the fitted cardigans you already have, you are instantly current.

"The easiest way to incorporate this trend into your wardrobe is with a new coat purchase. Look for one that is belted and classic single breasted with wide or shawl collar. This style will flatter curvaceous and willowy body shapes alike focusing on the waist and upper body. Wear with leather gloves and round-toed heels to give it a sleek and accessorised finish.

"I'll let you into a secret here... I have just updated last year's coat by sewing on a fake fur collar that gives a completely different feel to the Jasper Conran monochrome coat I bought from Debenhams twelve months ago. It's still in very good condition and I see no reason to splurge on another! Fashion can often allow for a bit of adaptation and you don't have to be good at sewing - it's more about the styling.

"The skirt suit is another Forties style that has been adapted by all the high street stores, so you will be able to find this at a price and style to suit you.

"If you don't want to take the plunge, buy a classic shape skirt and fitted jacket and you will be able to enjoy it for many seasons to come, then a brown or tweed pencil skirt with your fitted cardigan and belt will create the same silhouette.

"If you are pear shaped, you can still wear a pencil skirt, just make sure it is in the darkest brown you can find, whilst the top half of your body needs to be in a brighter colour cardigan to create balance.

"Slouchy, but tailored trousers are another easy-to-wear style and I've been living in my French Connection grey turn ups, teaming them with patent brogues which are like slippers and a mustard fitted cardigan. To elongate your leg, go for a medium heel and a round-toed boot, wear with a knitted tank top or your cardigan belted.

"If you are curvy, the wide trouser can be a fantastic style aid, just make sure you choose a flat-fronted pair and a style with a wide flare that skims from the hips.

"My final recommendation for a garment that will have quite a bit of longevity in your wardrobe is a well-cut fitted blouse with a pussy bow. These again are such a classic style. Yes, I've got one too - you knew that didn't you!

"If you are slender, this style will give volume to the top half of your body and if you are tall it is a much more feminine blouse for you than a mannish shirt.

"I know it works on all you curvaceous lovelies too, but make sure you prioritise v-neckline and a soft yielding bow.

"Happy shopping for now, but do join me next week when I'll be talking about military fashion, our next featured trend on Catwalk Challenge on The Clothes Show."

Caryn X

Last week's show, Catwalk Challenge: New Shape