After seasons of wishy-washy trends (studs and pleather leggings, anyone?) designers are serious for autumn with pared down and tailored styles that evoke timeless classics - albeit with a modern, luxurious touch.
Autumn-winter 2010 is all about luxury minimalism with no frills, and no fuss. Beautifully tailored coats, high-waisted trousers, chunky fair isle knits and shearling and leather jackets are some of the looks that came down the runways. Even accessories are stripped down with simple structured bags (from Louis Vuitton's redesigned speedy to Celine's Enveloppe bag) and clear statement jewellery.
'Women want to feel strong, feminine, independent but soft all at the same time,' says fashion designer Grace Yow. 'Subtle opulence is the modern, intelligent luxury for today.'
Designers also revisited some of their favourite themes - including military and sportswear - to add a cool utilitarian vibe to autumn's offerings. Cover-ups were also a big story and ranged from luxe furs to romantic capes. As for colours, camel is the new black, while red and military green are also favourites.
We consulted local buyers and designers to get their low-down on this season's hottest trends.
Favourite trend
Audrey Sun, COO of Harvey Nichols: 'The military influence is a strong trend. It's all about the details, including military pockets, epaulettes, regimental binding and piping and the use of burnished metal buttons.'