Classic coats, pantsuits, animal prints, leather and shift dresses top the season's must-have list, while bold hues replace the moody, broody and dark colours that traditionally mark the return of cool weather.
"You could walk into a store and think you're in the wrong season because there are a lot of bright colours, floral prints and polka dots that we're not used to seeing in the winter," says Robin Keeler, fashion consultant for shopping centres managed by 20 Vic from coast to coast.
She lists the following as the season's essential pieces:
1. A classic coat with a twist: Though a coat is a big purchase for many women, it's also very functional. "It makes your first fashion impression so a coat has to be right," says Keeler. Simplicity and almost masculine tailoring characterize this season's definitive coat. It's knee length or just below that, and features plenty of detail, such as leather trim, a fur collar, pleating in the back, and simple or oversized buttons.
2. The pantsuit: Out of favour for a number of seasons now, the pantsuit is back with a vengeance. "If you don't have one, this is the season to get one," says Keeler. "The pantsuit is always appropriate, is extremely versatile and is an investment."
Depending on its style, a pantsuit can be powerful, professional or authoritative. It can also be simple and relaxed. A fitted jacket looks great on most body types, giving the body welcome shape. Pinstripes and tweeds are especially hot and feminine touches - such as a ruffled or bow blouse - balance the 'borrowed from the boys' tailoring and fabrics. "A great way to elevate the pantsuit to sexy is to add a killer pair of heels," says Keeler. "Add a pop of red underneath a dark suit or complete your look with a great red bag, shoes or lips."
3. An animal print: Leopard, cheetah or snakeskin have become classics but head-to-toe animal print is never good and can look very cartoonish. "One great piece will do quite nicely, such as a beautiful leopard print pencil skirt combined with a red jacket," Keeler says.
"You can tone down the animal print with solid neutral colours. Keep shapes fairly simple - not too many ruffles." Hesitant about wearing this trend? Accessories are a great way to bring out your inner animal but don't go overboard: if you're wearing an animal print jacket or skirt, resist the temptation to wear matching animal print shoes.
4. A piece of leather: As always, leather gives anything you wear an instant edge. Leather embellished with studs and chains creates a real rocker feel and is carried over from seasons past - though it should never be worn to the office. Instead, choose something like a knee-length leather skirt (as long as it's not too tight, Keeler cautions) paired with a cardigan or jacket. A jacket, dress, leggings and pants are other options. "Stick to classic shapes and earth-tone colours, which are so easy to integrate into a wardrobe," says Keeler. "Like animal prints, never wear leather head to toe."
5. '60s inspired minimal shift dress: It's a big season for dresses and few are as versatile as the shift dress, says Keeler. A sleeveless shift dress worn with a fitted, light gauge turtleneck sweater underneath becomes a jumper that looks fabulous with tights and flats. Pair it with a jacket and pumps for the office; dress it up with bold accessories and sexy heels for an evening on the town. Best of all, the shift dress looks great on most body types and comes in a huge variety of options, including bright colours, dark neutrals, leather, tweed and herringbone. Groovy!
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