As we say goodbye to the balmy days of summer and the falling leaves of autumn, our thoughts inevitably turn to the one thing that makes winter bearable – fine knits, comfy cardies, elegant jerseys and eye-catching footwear. Who says the best things about winter are log fires and red wine? Well, they’re worth looking forward to as well. But it’s the clothes that make it all worthwhile. And this season, fashion designers have conjured up a veritable treasure trove of dazzling outfits that will see us out and about strutting our style instead of huddling up indoors.

So what can we expect? The answer is to think red. Shoes, bags, coats, jackets, scarves, red in all its various hues seem to be the colour of choice this winter.  From ruby to burgundy, scarlet to cherry, red is the show-stopping colour of the season. Team it with soft silvers and muted greys for tops, skirts and pants and you’re dressed to thrill!

Fortunately for those who loathe the cheery, chilly days of winter, cardigans and coats are making a huge return to the local fashion scene.  The new cardigan comes in a variety of guises – long and draped for wearing with pants; short and sassy for teaming with narrow pencil skirts and elegant jewellery; and cardigan coats for wearing over chic dresses and business suits.

Coats are fitted with detail at the waistline to create the illusion of an hourglass in even the roundest of shapes. Reliable black is still around, but rather be more daring and opt for something in teal, red or cream.

And have you noticed that the forties seem to be back in fashion? Tailored skirt suits with structured silhouettes in clever cuts that create the illusion of tiny waists. What’s not to love? Even shoulder pads are making a come-back but in a power-dressing design that won’t leave you looking like you belong on an American football pitch. Princess Grace, eat your heart out!

On the opposite end of the elegance scale, military is still making an impact. Gold trimmings, antique buttons and epaulettes are turning ordinary jackets into martial works of art.

If you prefer to leave the epaulettes to the army, then shimmer and dazzle in a sprinkling of sparkles and opt for the new passion for sequins. No longer confined to evening wear, sequins are popping up on cardigans, wrap tops and even jackets.

And don’t forget about your all-important accessories. Jewellery is jumbo-sized; bags are either small and shiny or large and metallic; heels are high and hot; boots are thigh-high, knee-high, buckled and belted; scarves are softly patterned; umbrellas have hooked handles and bright hues.

So don’t feel sad about packing away the shorts and sandals. Wrap up in the enticing, colourful warmth of your new winter wardrobe and enjoy the effect you create!