The high street stores have already begun to stock their display windows with beautifully wrapped presents and colourful Christmas trees that make us all turn green with envy. But what do these changes mean? Well, dig out your 15-tog duvets because the chilly mornings and wet windy weekends are coming.

But fear not, the winter does bring with it some good news. You may be sad that you’ve packed away the swimsuit and can no longer soak up the sun’s rays whilst lounging in the back garden, but one thing we can all get excited about is this year’s tasteful autumn/ winter collection. Earlier this year the architects of the fashion world predicted which trends would become red hot by the end of 2017, but since there are far too many to list, I’ve narrowed it down to the top five.

1. The oversized jacket… because bigger is better!

The very first item on the list is a basic winter necessity; a cosy, comfortable coat. Whether you’re passionate about parkas, a lover of leather or have a fondness for faux fur, this season grab yourself a fabulous oversized jacket that will suit your style, personality and needs. Zara’s new maroon, white and black-checked bouclé jacket is a personal favourite of mine because it’s a perfect quirky companion for all occasions this winter. A quick suggestion for you gents out there, this season’s Boss fashion show confirms that you can’t go wrong with a sophisticated over coat or an oversized parka.

Image Credit: (L) Zara (R) Vogue – Hugo Boss

2. Don’t be blue, wear it!

This season there isn’t really one specific colour that is set to dominate everyone’s winter wardrobe. However, earthy tones like moss green, camel and dusky blue are definitely front-runners for the top three spots (and of course black, but when is it not on trend?) Lemaire’s fall/winter collection indicates that this season, men’s fashion will be full of moss green and camel coloured chunky jumpers, trousers and over coats. Whereas women’s fashion will feature more dusky blue and warm coloured pants and blouses. Just because summer is behind us doesn’t mean we have to avoid warming up our wardrobes with a touch of colour.

Image Credit:  (L) Lemaire (R) Lemaire 

3.  Everyone suit up!

The tasteful suit has always been, and will forever be a winner for men’s fashion inside and outside the office (so gentlemen, keep suiting up). But this season, the female tailored trend has returned once again, and this time it’s more flattering than ever. Belts and tailored blazers that cinch the waist allow women to flaunt those womanly curves whilst covering up from the winter chill. So why not rock up to work wearing this ultra-chic grape patterned suit by Ted Baker? It’s perfect for a day in the office and a night out with friends.

Image Credit: (L) Vogue – Hugo Boss  (R) Ted Baker 

4. Don’t be afraid to be fabulous and formal

Don’t let the dull and wet weather stop you from venturing out into the city and spoiling yourself with some lavish cocktails and delicious food.  Everyone loves a good opportunity to dress up and show off a gorgeous new dress or a suave new suit. So this season, make sure you’re the belle or beau of the ball and arrive to your annual Christmas do in style. For you ladies a silver sequined dress would be an elegant and glamorous choice, and for you gents a bold checked suit would certainly hit the spot. The Balenciaga and Ted Baker men’s winter collection proves that the checkered pattern is red hot, so when choosing a new suit don’t stay safe, go for the patterns. Formal attire is BACK, so push the boat out this season and make sure you shine in the spotlight.

      Image Credit: (L) Vogue – Saint Laurent (R) Ted Baker 

5. Love the leather!

Everybody owns, (or have at some point owned) a piece of leather clothing whether it be a leather jacket, skirt or for you daring punk rockers out there, a pair of slick leather pants. This year complete any autumn outfit with a super stylish leather jacket. The season’s most fashionable new arrivals include Tommy Hilfiger’s leather pilot and biker jackets. You could even compliment the outfit further by adding a cosy oversized woolly scarf to ensure you stay warm this winter. A quick note for the ladies out there, leather skirts are super chic and would look fabulous with a chunky turtleneck and some suede knee length or tall ankle boots.

 Image Credit: (L) Desigual (R) Tommy Hilfiger 

So spice up your winter wardrobe and look sophisticated and stylish this season!