Style tips: Vibrant, fresh and opulent

It may not seem right, but we can't help it - we're already excited about winter fashion. Here at Simply You, we're busy preparing the March issue, compiling the key trends, practical tips and tricks and advice for next season. So, we thought, what better time to give you a taste of the fashion feast that lies ahead.
Tweed the bee's knees
Yes, tweed is making a glorious resurgence in various guises: boxy cropped jackets, wide-leg and narrow-cut trousers, swing coats, pencil skirts. You name it, it's sporting the tweed trend. And you can shake off those conservative images of stuffy, herringbone pieces akin to those worn on a round of shooting in the British hills. Tweed, closely tailored to the female form, is giving country chic a new lease of life this winter.

Open opulence
Maybe it's a reaction against the financial woes and forced frugality of recent times because there's no shortage of sumptuous fabric, glitz and glamour in pieces about to hit stores for winter. Expect luscious velvets in jewel tones, sequin-encrusted cocktail dresses in purple and gold and dress coats in shiny satin. There'll be embellishment galore and lashings of textures from layers of frothy tulle to ruched chiffon. Accessories will be oversized. Man-size, showy watches are going to enjoy another season of popularity. Bib-like necklaces in primary colours, as well as gold, silver and crystal are also on hand to liven up last season's favourites.

Desert road
The runway looks of Chloe (of course), Salvatore Ferragamo and Gucci all expressed a love affair with camel colours throughout their entire collections for winter. New Zealand designers have most certainly followed suit, with sandy tones of a desert scene translating beautifully into their ranges. Tailored long coats, cute shearling vests and jackets, and modern narrow pants are some of the treats in store. This is a classy, super-chic look that beckons head-to-toe co-ordination - you really can let loose with this one. Accessorise with matching totes, trims and booties to understated glamour at its best.
Rainbow riot
Those juicy block colours that have been making the odd appearance in previous seasons are about to hit full force to kick your winter blues. Abide by a simple blocking technique when dressing by choosing solid colours for each layer. For example, a block turquoise dress, with a block green cardigan over the top and, if you're feeling boisterous, opt for a different single colour shoe like red. As long as each piece is one single block colour, this look is fresh, vibrant and full of impact. You'll be amazed at how it will make you and other onlookers feel good. Be ready for the deluge of compliments.