How to dress like a grown-up

Proper, grown-up dressing is back in fashion. And boy does this come as a welcome relief after years of crotch-flashing hemlines, dominatrix shoes and flashy handbags. Thanks to a handful of female designers - notably Phoebe Philo at Céline - this autumn is all about classic styles, flattering cuts and luxe fabrics. The new minimal mood reflects a desire to blend in discreetly rather than stand out, and although ladylike blouses, midi skirts and kitten heels are never going to set the world alight, practical, modest dressing feels right for now.

At a time when sensible is cool and showing off isn't, it appears that shoppers are taking a reality check.  We are seeing that people are becoming more discerning as a result of the recession and are looking for better quality clothes with longevity and provenance,' states Lilian Bucke, head of buying, Jaeger. The preponderance of elegantly tailored garments in several shades of camel brings a new pared-down aesthetic to autumn fashion, and as one Vogue cover line points out, the return of real clothes.'

But how does this translate to the high street? ‘'The designer collections look fantastic due to the exquisite fabrics and the high standard of make,' says Sandy Verdon, Creative Director, Hobbs, ‘So simplicity of styling and cut and the lack of too much embellishment are important. Only the premium high street retailers will be able to translate it well.'

Get the look in five easy steps

Pay attention to detail

Look for a high well-cut arm hole,' advises Lilian Bucke, head of buying, Jaeger,  ‘ And body skimming sharp lapels - pure wool is always a winner in winter.'  Finding the perfect fit takes time, so don't impulse buy; check that a jacket sits properly across the shoulders, whether or not the lining has a centre back pleat for ease of movement and take a look at cuffs and seams and how they're finished.

Avoid the frump factor

Put a fresh spin on timeless classics, ‘'Take a beautiful silk pussy bow blouse, team with a boyfriend jean and heels,' recommends Bucke,  ‘Or a camel single-breasted city coat, dressed down with a Breton top and skinny cropped trousers. It's a fresher and new aesthetic.'

Stay neutral

Investment buying means looking for clothes with staying power - so it's best to stick to neutral shades such as camel, grey and black. Camel, a trend in its own right, is the easiest autumn update. Just be sure to get the right tone. Pale shades can make a lighter complexion look washed-out so opt for warmer toffee colours instead. ‘Camel doesn't suit everyone,' points out Sandy Verdon, Creative Director, Hobbs, ‘ so simply highlight it with another colour around the neck and face. Wear it with bright accessories too.'

Never compromise on fabrics

‘When buying a tailored piece, always buy the best that you can afford,' recommends Bucke. So, it's best to remember the old adage ‘buy cheap buy twice' and go for quality every time.

Finishing touches

The right accessories instantly take an outfit from pared-down to dressed up. Transform a simple camel shift with a jaunty silk scarf or an eye-catching necklace. ‘Try a skinny belt and a beautiful pair of bow detail shoes with a fifties-inspired dress,' says Tara ffrench-Mullen, communications director, LK Bennett, ‘A camel coat can look great with a belt and elegant knee high boots.'