Lights, Camera, Fashion At The Trafford Centre

COMPLIMENTARY champagne is handed to me as I arrive at Trafford Centre’s Lights Camera, Fashion and I sip to the sounds of a Michael Buble impersonator while the crowd of waiting women mumble among themselves.

It’s been done thousands of times before but mannish dressing is big this winter, with the added feminine twist of loose fabrics. Round neck viscose t-shirts tucked into high wasted silk trousers in a palette of winter whites and dusky greys.

After a long summer spent dressing down in t-shirts and wedges, I’m excited about the catwalk’s fashion forecast and according to my complimentary Lights Camera, Fashion programme this season’s all about instant classics and serious winter statements.

Ankle socks rock a patent platform heel at John Lewis and Banana Republic, as they re-invent the polka dot blouse and A–line skirt look of the 1940s. Coast go glamour as they turn all couples into suited and booted luxury, teaming waistcoat–wearing men with evening gowned women. Fortunately for us ladies, the most expensive item to pace the catwalk is a Hawes & Curtis navy blue pinstripe suit at a pricey £500.

And what I thought was a strip tease is actually Karen Millen. Burberry inspired macs complete with whips. Insanely slick, discretely saucy leather comes in all styles: pencil skirts, mini jackets and fabric – inserted trousers. Racey lace sleeves complete with zip and stud detailed pouch handbags makes for a very wary (or weary?) winter. Think dominatrix meets secret spy.

DKNY and Guess aren’t far off, teaming every inch of leather with sky-scraper heels and skinny and boyfriend jeans are must - haves in the classic rebel shades of black, dark grey and plum. Men team brown leather elbow pads onto black leather and denim.

French ConnectionFrench Connection and Ted Baker steal the show, proving that British heritage is perfect dressing for Britain’s wind, cold and rain. Keep the look crisp with check country cardigans and layer tweed lapels with snug scarves in every autumn colour imaginable. Wide leg wool trousers complete the heritage look with leather satchels and equestrian–style boots. British dressing for a British winter.

Futuristic 3D glasses aside, all is good at Reiss and Zara as they too master layering to perfection. Play with patterns by swapping leopard print for snakeskin and colour block with autumn’s must –have shade, mustard. It’s been done thousands of times before but mannish dressing is big this winter, with the added feminine twist of loose fabrics. Round neck viscose t-shirts tucked into high wasted silk trousers in a palette of winter whites and dusky greys; simple dressing has never been so simple.

Party season is upon us, welcome Debenhams. Sequined shawls and bejewelled blazers are perfect winter cover ups over boozy shades of burgundy satin pencil skirts. Warm up your look with the come–back clutch and if you dare to be different, purchase Debenhams’ cheapest item of the day, a £10 pair of black satin gloves.

Start your winter wish list now by browsing the gallery of Lights Camera, Fashion favourites below...