Put away your gipsy skirts and baggy jumpers - you'll be showing off your curves in the cold months ahead

GRIM winter weather compels us to wrap up warm and hide under comforting baggy layers. But forget slouchy jumpers, because this season the fashion world has other ideas.

This winter heralds a ladylike look that brings back the waist and says hello to curves. Toss out summer's shapeless gipsy skirts and peasant tops - the new wardrobe staples come in the form of curve-conscious tailoring like pencil skirts, fitted trousers and oh-so glamorous blouses.

"The ethos of the ladylike trend is to explore the silhouette of the female body in the most sophisticated way possible," says Sairey Stemp, Elle magazine's merchandising editor.

"It is about making a woman feel beautiful, empowered and sexy in a very 'made up' way. The trend takes inspiration from past generations, from 40s-inspired pencil skirts to 70s-style pussy bow blouses."

"The fitted pencil skirt is a key item to invest in, preferably high waisted, in black or a fine tweed.

"Curvy and slim girls alike will find they can work the pencil skirt. It should fit snugly around the hips and taper down to just below the knee with a slight back split," she advises.

For a classic look, go for a flattering black pencil skirt. Try Miss Selfridge's version, £20 (30 Euros), or Topshop's stretch skirt, £30. If you prefer a touch of detail, try Warehouse's black stripe pencil skirt, £35, or a tweed skirt from George, £16.

Those planning to party like a lady should try River Island's slinky satin number with cheeky ruffle detailing and fishtail, £24.99.

Even denim fans can embrace the ladylike trend, with a denim pencil skirt from Mango, £25.

"Blouses are all-important to this trend. The eye moves from head to toe so a great blouse makes an instant impact," says Stemp.

"It's all in the cut and texture. Go for silk in chiffon, jersey or satin. Plain colour blocks are best and sapphire, emerald, turquoise and plum will all work beautifully."

If you don't mind exposing your arms to the elements, try Laura Ashley's cute navy blue blouse, £50 or Matalan's capped sleeve satin blouse, £10. Oasis also has a Pavilion beaded blouse in classic monochrome colours, £80.

Long-sleeve blouses are the dressier option. The satin blouse is a must for your party wardrobe - great teamed with a skirt for optimum ladylike behaviour or dressing up skinny jeans. Topshop do a great navy version with neck tie detail, £35.

The Victoriana trend sits well with this look - try Marks & Spencer's classic chiffon blouse with lace detailing, £39.50.

WHAT'SHOT

Little extras will make the outfit work

Accessories like pretty vintage brooches and gloves will enhance this season's ladylike look. But to achieve that wasp waist silhouette, your must-have accessory is a wide belt cinched in high around the waist to show off your figure.

A cinch belt transforms any outfit and creates that all-important nipped-in waist. Topshop's black leather cinch belt is £40 or Miss Selfridge have a patent belt, £15.

Or, you could try a slim pair of gloves, faux pearls, a classic watch, small handbag and a good pair of opaque tights to set off that pair of court shoes you're going to need.

Finally, a bulky bag swinging on your shoulder will ruin the look - go small. For daytime, Matalan have a small contrast stitch flap over bag for £6 and for evening glamour, look for a dainty clutch like Accessorize's beaded bow and gem clutch, £25.

Take the plunge

IF your silhouette could do with a little help, turn to Playtex and Wonderbra. Playtex's Secrets Beauty Enhancers range, consisting of Bottom Lift pants, £6.99, Tummy Slimmer, £6.99, and Thigh And Tummy Slimmer, £7.99, help create curves on your bottom half, while Wonderbra's new range, from £20, come in four different effects - Cleavage, Plunging, Rounded or Uplift.

Perfect whether you're picking a pencil skirt or showing off in a low-cut top.

Super sparkle

YOU can now buy almost anything at your local supermarket. Add some extra sparkle to your weekly shop with Tesco and Asda's new ranges of jewellery.

Tesco's glittering goodies include colourful Chinese bead bracelets, £6, crystal brooches, £7.97, and purple beaded drop earrings, £3.97, while Asda's offerings include delicate butterfly pendants, £3.94, tortoise shell effect bangles, £2.94, and a cameo style brooch, £3.47.