The middle way

Blame the popular British period TV dramas Downton Abbey and Call the Midwife, because mid-length skirts will be everywhere come autumn. Straight, bias-cut, in filmy silk with a handkerchief hem or cut in a circle shape, there’s plenty of choice, yet this doesn’t disguise the fact that this is a difficult length to pull off – especially when it hits the calf at exactly its widest point. Combine it with flat shoes, as seen at Roksanda Ilincic and you could be heading for very stumpy territory indeed. It’s a challenge though, and the fashion pack love one of those.

Statement sleeves

If you don’t have “statement arms” (namely yoga-toned A-list biceps), then why not wrap them up in some fashion-forward sleeves instead? From undulating strips of fabric with the arm threaded through at Christopher Kane, to leg-of-mutton cord sleeves at JW Anderson, it was as if designers had racked their brains for the latest area to flag up. Once again, though, these sleeves come with issues: can you wear a jumper on top? (no). What about a coat? (probably not). Try a cape.

Chubby chic

The chubby – namely a short, boxy, shaggy coat made from fur or shearling – is firmly back on the fashion map. Pioneered by Yves Saint Laurent in the 1970s, it adds a decadent vibe to even the safest outfit, especially dyed shades of purple, pink or patchwork. Follow Christopher Kane’s lead and wear this disco yeti look with utilitarian fabrics such as nylon; or sling over boyfriend jeans. The chubby is guaranteed to attract attention – whether it’s from street style photographers or Peta. London’s new love for fur won’t square with everyone’s ethics (or wallets.) But there is an alternative: multicoloured fun furs by Shrimps are a front-row obsession.

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