Autumn & Winter Fashion
For chic autumn and winter style Angela explains the key seasonal trends which will keep you fashionable and warm.
Rock Chick
Leather is the fabric for autumn and winter and the trend is extending far beyond jackets. We'll be seeing leather shorts, dresses, leggings and much more. If leather is a little rock 'n' roll for your personal taste choose other gorgeous fabrics - faux fur, suede, wool, tweed, velvet, satin and denim.
Chunky Knits
Chunky and textured looks are the key to knitwear this winter - cardigans, turtlenecks or sweaters. For a snug outfit, try a long cable-knit 'cardigan coat' teamed with bright tights and ankle boots. Knits are hot in charcoal grey, bold colours or classic black. Team with a belt to ensure there's no loss of shape and keep the emphasis on your curves.
Elegantly Waisted
Waist definition is something New Zealand women are becoming more aware of. Knee-length skirts with flattering, soft and feminine blouses are a great look when paired with a broad or narrow belt. A big belt makes a bold statement, while a narrow belt will create a delicately defined waistline. Even if you don't have a well-defined waist, a belt will create the illusion of an hour glass shape.
Boots
Over-the-knee boots are a must-have item and those daring enough will find the tops of their boots creeping up even higher.
Prints
Expect to see lots of dramatic, feminine prints and accessories. Wear them in small doses rather than all over to balance the look.
Dresses
Team beautiful dresses with hoisery, boots and a gorgeous belt is one of my favourite looks.
Coats
A coat is one of the most expensive items of clothing you will ever purchase and should be considered an investment piece. Purchase the best quality you can afford in fit, cloth and cut.
Analyse your lifestyle and how you travel. Do you drive a car or travel a lot? If so, then a 3/4 or 7/8 length coat will make it easy for you to get in and out of vehicles. If you work in an office you will need a businesslike coat. If you have a casual lifestyle or live in the country, a duffel may be more appropriate. Full length capes are only useful if you have an extensive and formal night life.
Consider what you will wear under the coat. Make sure that you have chosen a style with enough room for your clothes and that still allows you to move freely.
Consider your age and health, not only for the suitability of the style, but also the fabric. A mature woman in heavy wool fabrics will be quickly exhausted by the weight of the fabric. Topcoats are generally lighter than overcoats and are designed to be worn in the warmer months. Some coats have detachable linings that make them perfect all year round.
Decide on your best neutral colour. Black and navy are very versatile colours and will go from day to evening, while beige, cream and taupe are best worn in the daytime. Add a scarf around the neck of your coat for extra pizazz.
Know you figure requirements. Some styles and fabrics add bulk to your silhouette and may make you appear shorter or heavier. A straight coat is more slimming than a barrel coat or a wrap in a thick fabric.

