Prim and Proper
1. A basic blouse (pussy-bow necklines and spotty prints are a plus) adds a bit of polish to any ensemble. The prim way to wear it? Tucked into your skirt, of course.
Paisley print top, £89, Hobbs NW3
2. Chic kitten heels are a great way to embrace the trend. Satin or patent are your best bets.
Satin sling back heels, £420, Lanvin at Matches
3. Button up: nothing says ladylike like a fitted cardigan.
Lace-trim cardigan, £215, Paul Smith Women
4. Party with this '50s-inspired prom dress which ticks all of the boxes of the designer versions (nipped-in waist, cleavage-accentuating and a great print) at a fraction of the price.
Fusion Gemma prom dress, £65, Monsoon
5. Want to really feel like a Joan or a Betty? A peach satin bullet bra will take you back in time and give you a sweater-girl silhouette.
Harlow bullet bra, £29.50, What Katie Did
6. Skirt lengths have dropped to the knee and calf this season (pencil shapes and fuller-skirted versions are both popular). Texture is also great, like the spot and ribbon detailing on this skirt, which calls to mind Prada's nubby versions on the a/w catwalks.
Spot textured skirt, £35, Oasis
7. The easiest way to do prim and proper is with a fabulous frock. Combine with a granny-style handbag and quirky knee socks for a lesson in eccentric ladylike.
Daulle dress, £1,020, Dries Van Noten at My Theresa
8. Accessories are key to the trend and the skinny belt with a bow buckle was a waist-cinching hit on many an a/w catwalk.
Pink belt with gold bow buckle, £3, Primark
9. Stay warm with this feminine coat - the camel shade knocks off two of the season's top trends in one.
Camel corelli coat, £80, Miss Selfridge
10. A handbag with a clasp closure embodies the '50s spirit and adds a ladylike finish to even a basic T-and-jeans outfit.
Patent leather croc Yo-Yo bag, £1,495, Prada