As any self-respecting fashionista will tell you, a new year means new trends, and from this autumn's fashion week shows in London, Milan and New York it's clear that designers are looking forward to bold, sexy, and very feminine looks in 2008. Colour-wise, black and white look set to remain hot next season - whether they're teamed in big, bold prints, stripes, spots or one main colour with natty contrasting trims, hems and cute 50s-inspired details such as buckles and bows, which can be carried over to shoes to complete a look.

The metallic trend from winter should soften and turn more neutral, with warm tones of rosy grey, pewter and old gold which are much more flattering to pale skin tones - a blessing if the winter has left you with that typically British complexion; paper-white with pink cheeks and nose when you step outside! Bright colours worn next to the face can make you look more washed-out, as does black, so it may be best to save them for tights and shoes.

The winter trend of hard-edged, futuristic shiny fabrics, with wet-look, glittering dresses and leather biker jackets, gives way to a lighter and altogether more feminine look, with tulle, ruffles and tutus all set to make a comeback in the new season's party dresses.

Ladylike, polished Hollywood glamour is back in a big way, too; while the ‘body-conscious' trend isn't dead, spring silhouettes will have softer edges with emphasis on nipped-in waists and classic curves rather than scary shoulders and pointy toes. Choose luxurious satin and taffeta dresses with flattering halter necklines, or strapless with little details such as flower corsages; in skirt shapes, we'll see flamboyant fishtails and the ‘mermaid' shape - tight to the knee, then flared - which really exaggerate feminine curves. Team these key pieces with pearls, red lips, and fluffy faux-fur wraps for a vintage siren look that would make Rita Hayworth proud.

For a more relaxed, fun daytime look, girly scoop-necked tea dresses and pinafores can be layered with cute cardigans or high-necked tops in warm colours. Details like oversized buttons, delicate floral prints or bright ankle socks bring a carefree, nursery-school touch to dull January days. This look will work well with the kicky, elfin cropped hairstyles popularised by Girls Aloud and catwalk superstar Agyness Deyn. Alternatively, if you're not that brave, tuck long, flowing locks up into a beret or beanie. Finish it off with sensible mary-janes or ankle boots - the coolest right now are inspired by ice-skating, with wearable chunky heels and front lacing.

There's a lot to look forward to in 2008 - and with Christmas bonuses, January sales and plenty of time off to think about it, winter is a great time to start picking out your perfect pieces, such as classy designer dresses, which with clever accessorising can multitask and see you safely through the winter and spring in style.

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