Fashion: Pretty in pastels

Whether you are pretty in pink or cool in blue, there's something about soft pastel colours that can make you feel really girly.

And when the soft, almost candy-coloured pastel pieces start appearing in shops, it's a sure sign that summer can't be too far away.

Some of the pastels this season are good enough to eat. I particularly like pastel maxi-dresses for a romantic holiday option. But while there's still a bit of winter chill around, look for a cardigan or trench coat in pale blue or green to get a taste of the spring trend early.

Because the soft colours can look a bit too girly on women older than 16, opt for more structured, tailored pieces if you want to wear pastels to work. A shift dress in pale blue, or a pair of cigarette trousers in mint could be perfect. Celebrities seem keen to match pastels with lace accents, but I can't help thinking it looks like something that should be in the children's-wear section.

If you can't face head-to-toe pastel, there are some ways to get a touch of the look without looking like an Easter egg.

Team a pastel dress with a black blazer or wear a pastel blouse with a black skirt. Black gives a much more formal touch to floaty, frilly pieces and anchors them, giving the colours more depth.

Try pastel accessories such as a handbag or a pair of shoes. Pale pink heels are a great alternative to the nude that's been on everyone's feet for the past year. Even pastel nail polishes are a nice touch, and make your nails look longer.

Mix pastels with other pale colours, but make sure they are all in the same colour family - for example, wear dark blue with pastel, eggshell blue.