It is that fabulous time of year again when you get to wear sumptuous layer upon luxurious layer of the latest women’s fashion for winter and while the summer fashion was all about to choose or not to choose the maxi dress, winter is all about wearing what you want, with style.

Choose belted tweed shorts and team with cashmere tights, fur-lined boots and a longline boyfriend cardigan for a casual but tailored look that is perfect for a relaxed office look or Saturday lunch with the girls on a cold day. If you’ve never understood the idea of wearing shorts with tights, in winter, and you still don’t, copy the look with a pair of wool peg trousers and make sure that your crisp tailored shirt or silk blouse is tucked in, whether you choose the high-waisted or long-slung version.

The autumn / winter colours are subtle, muted and flattering for all, so whether you decide to wrap up in striking camouflage, tone your look down with khakis and nudes or add a splash of deep dramatic colour with dark purples and rusty oranges, you’ll be bang on trend now and you’ll have built up a versatile wardrobe to span the upcoming seasons.

You won’t be able to shop the high street or online women’s fashion stores right now without coming across a cape or two, so here are a few tips on how to make the perfect winter accessory work for you.

• Pear shapes – look for structure to emphasise your slimmest point (the waist), something with a belt works well.

• Petite shapes – stick to slimline capes and team with opaque tights and a short skirt or skinny jeans for a look that will emphasise your shape and not swamp it.

• Athletic shapes – choose capes with a flare and shiny buttons to create a feminine shape without going overboard on the glamour and team with skinny jeans or belted shorts.

• Hourglass shapes – stick to tailored capes that will flatter your curves and wear with a pencil skirt or tailored wide leg trousers to balance out the look.

The same principles apply to wearing the oversized jumper trend successfully and make sure you choose chunky knitwear to wear with simple t-shirts and waffle or sheer versions to layer up for a glamorous winter warmer.

If you loved the maxi dress trend and you’re not ready to let go just yet then fear not because knitted maxi dresses are warm and sensible but far from compromising on sophistication and style, they are the ultimate in simple elegance. Wear your knitted maxi dress with Shearling lined boots; with a heel for added glamour and height for the petite among you and flat for a casual weekend look. Don’t forget to add a knitted headband to whichever look you decide to go for, it is the must-have women’s fashion accessory for autumn / winter.