Tights: Don't Leave Home Without Them

This autumn/winter, you can't go wrong with the look of tights (opaque tights are 70 denier plus as opposed to sheer) under dresses or skirts. They will instantly make an outfit look more fashionable and up-to-date.

Unlike the footless tights we saw during summer, opaques are full pantyhose, and give a longer, lean look, and of course, added warmth. Last winter, we saw them teamed with Mary Janes. This year, wear them with any heavy weight shoe, in a platform or peep toe, but not patent leather. It's best to keep it all black as black is definitely a major shade on the winter palette. [Note on 22.04.07: I recently broke this rule myself and found that grey opaques with black patent shoes actually work quite well!]

However, if you're ready to put a high fashion edge to your outfit, wear them with the short ankle boot, also know as "shootie" or dress bootie.

All major shoe brands such as Diana Ferari and Sandler, have their own versions, but if you can only spend the bare minimum, Target and Payless have great options too. My recommendation would be to buy in black, as you will be able to wear them under black trousers in future years and they'll always look smart.

If you work in an office which has a conservative dress code, opaques are a totally acceptable option to footless tights. Buy the best quality you can afford such as the Voodoo Lavish Opaque Tight (pictured) which are 70 denier luxurious microfibre. They'll wash and wear well and you'll probably only need one pair.

Also, try and keep your boots or shoes in good condition as you never know when they'll take centre stage again. This year I'm wearing a pair of ankle boots I bought at Nine West around seven years ago and they still look gorgeous!