Winter is inn!

The 4 key autumn/winter 2015 fashion trends you need to know about:

The 8 key AW14 fashion trends you need to know about — Cara introduces the monogrammed luxury Burberry blanket to the world (Picture: Getty)

Autumn/winter is our absolute favourite season of the year (just so you know, we think in fashion seasons rather than those of the meteorological variety – much easier to distinguish).
British people dress better in winter than they do in summer. Fact.
We much prefer wrapping ourselves in snuggly coats and layers of soft knit. In fact, we dream in cashmere.
And with shops receiving their first delivery of new season AW14 clothes next month (true story), here’s all you need to know about the key trends.
1. 60s mods

Every season has its signature decade these days and this time round it’s the 60s, as seen at Nicolas Ghesquiere’s first show for Louis Vuitton which featured structured A-line shifts, knee-high shiny leather boots and luxe polo necks.
Gucci’s more glamorous take saw brown leather A-lines paired with ruffled leather shirts, while Valentino gave us bright printed tunics.

Note, pointed 60s flats and mini boxy handbags are also having a moment. It’s 60s with a modern twist.
2. Fairy tales come true

Dolce & Gabbana turned storytellers with their dark, unctuous take on traditional fairy tales for AW14. Think huge fur hoods, jade green embellished capes and enchanting Little Red Riding Hood thick ruby coats.

Elsewhere, there was no less drama at Christopher Kane with his delicious 3D millefeuille dresses and tuilled spiral arms. Oh, and don’t forget Preen’s Darth Vader sweats.
Expect shops to be littered with hooded capes and bold embellished detail, particularly when the colder weather hits.
3. Designer normcore

Don’t groan. Yes, normcore’s gone high fashion. Also described as ‘perfectly boring’, the key to this trend is beautifully tailored louche trouser suits, soft wool jumpers, and a lot of classic grey, navy and black. This is about wearing the very best classic pieces you can afford, to make your life as simple and comfortable as possible. As seen at Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs and Margaret Howell.

Just remember, this is designer normcore, so leave the hoody at home.
4. Portrait of an artist

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Model Cara Delevingne walks the runway at the Burberry Prorsum show at London Fashion Week AW14 at Perks Fields, Kensington Gardens on February 17, 2014 in London, England. Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images

Tips!

How to Stay Warm and Stylish During Winter

As much as you want to in the winter, you may think that this is simply not possible, especially when it's negative twenty degrees out. It's frustrating, but don't give up! Although it requires a bit more thought and effort to remain stylish during the winter months, it is very possible and easy to achieve, once you get the hang of it. So, if you really want to snag the perfect cold weather style, throw out those old knitted sweaters already.

1. Invest in one sturdy, and fashionable winter jacket. Choose one that looks good on you, not the mannequin. Also, be sure to buy a coat that is appropriate for your area's weather. For example, someone living in Quebec will need a heavier coat than a person living in Arkansas. A neutral color is best since neutrals are ultra-wearable and will keep you looking classy. Colors like black, gray, and brown really cannot be beat. Choose white only if you are willing to invest the effort into making sure the coat stays spotless. Although white may look great when you first buy it, it doesn't have as nice of a contrast against snow, and the dirt the color so easily collects will just make you and your style look drab and dingy.

2. Buy a versatile and cute hat. Although it's better if you have different styles and colors of hats, having one main-stay can instantly pull together your look. Ideally, you should purchase a neutral-toned hat that complements your coat. Men should avoid wearing hats that instantly bring to mind images of bums; instead, you should pick classy, winter versions of your favorite hats. Try a nice newsboy or an insulated fedora.

3. Add a scarf! Especially windy days will have you wishing you had on three pairs of long underwear and woolly socks if you aren't dressed in a way that can protect you from the winter elements. One way you can protect yourself and keep yourself looking fashionable is with a scarf. Not only are they fairly inexpensive, they can be purchased in a variety of fabrics, colors, and styles. With a scarf, you can show your personality and keep your body heat in your jacket. Scarves will make you look put together, and many can even be worn inside. Men should stick with either scarves that are either one color or in a simple pattern such as wide stripes to help keep the look masculine. Try wearing a color that will either accent your coat or match your hat.

A black coat could be paired with a scarf that is dark or light gray; burgundy; navy; or a fun, mixed pattern or print. Black will work well with nearly anything, but keep the look stylish and not kindergarten by avoiding colors that completely clash.
Those wearing a brown coat should try scarves that are burgundy, a darker or lighter shade of brown, cream, purple, or a non-fluorescent shade of orange. Basically, brown coats work well with complementary neutrals or warm-toned scarves. Women can try a fun pattern or print to mix it up a bit!

4. Wear gloves. Nothing is less stylish than dry, chapped hands, which is exactly what you'll have if you don't wear gloves! Obviously, wearing mittens or extremely thick gloves would be warmer, but thin, streamlined gloves are more chic. Find a perfect medium that suits your outfit and the weather for maximum comfort. Your gloves should either match you hat or scarf, or fit the color scheme of your outerwear in some way.

5.Wear layers. Layering your "inside" clothes will help keep you warm without forcing you to resort to that knitted sweater your Auntie gave you three years ago for Christmas.

Women, you should try wearing a camisole under a t-shirt; or your favorite tank top under a thin, long sleeved shirt.
Men, you have this step a bit easier, since the best tools for layering under men's clothing are the inexpensive, white cotton t-shirts available at stores like Wal-mart in packs of five. Henley-style shirts look great with plain white tees.

6. Stick with shoes that cover more skin.

Women - Although they may be cute, you really should save your flip-flops and strappy-shoes for spring and summer. During the late fall and winter months, your best bets to keep warm are different styles of boots, cute tennis shoes, and ballet flats. Obviously, your outfit will dictate what kind of shoes you wear. You wouldn't wear tennis shoes with your formal skirt and tights.
Men - Heavier boots or normal tennis shoes with thicker socks are a guy's best friend when trying to keep your feet warm. Shop around a bit to find shoes that are a bit more stylish that the typical winter offerings. Go with natural materials with accents rather plain old rubber boots.

7. Wear tights and thermal leggings whenever you wear a skirt or dress. Instead of going bare-legged, ladies should consider wearing tights or leggings beneath their skirt or dress. Not only does it look more climate-appropriate in formal situations, your legs will remain softer since they won't be as exposed to the elements. Just like scarves, leggings and tights come in many different varieties, so it is nearly impossible not find a pair that will work with your outfit and mesh with your personality. Also add a purse and other accessories. If you don't want to wear tights there are some great stylish fleece lined jeans you can buy, they are called Winter Blues Jeans and they come in the newest styles and various sizes.

8. Layer thin clothes. To many, big, bulky coats are unattractive and uncomfortable. Start layering more summery clothes. You could wear a neon t-shirt under a long sleeved, pale top, then layer a thin hoody, then finish the look with a long, open cardigan. If you are tolerant of cold then this is perfect for you. If, however, you can't even stand a slight chill, then you might get cold.