The 50 best: Out with the old .. in with the new

Amy Jones
Saturday 20 February 1999 00:02 GMT
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Are the contents of your wardrobe looking just so 1998? Well, your fashion nightmare has just ended. For, with the shops' spring stock imminent, our stylist, Amy Jones, has chosen 50 of the best fashion buys to add a little pizzazz - and a lot of class - to your closet. From short skirts to white suits, from hippy handbags to urban jewellery, your change of image starts here.

1

JOSEPH

These leather pieces both feature key spring fashion motifs: biker-inspired zips, a high funnel neck, drawstring waist and button-through fastening. The trousers are slim and sexy, too.

How much: brown leather jacket pounds 589, brown leather trousers pounds 469. Stockist enquiries: 0171-590 6200.

2

ADRIANO GOLD-SCHMIED

Olive is one of the colours for spring. Mix this button-through jacket with matching trousers cropped to mid-calf, add a tank, T-shirt and plimsolls, and you've got this season sewn up. How much: olive-green cotton-twill jacket pounds 100, cropped trousers pounds 70. Stockist enquiries: 0171-734 9222.

3

ELEY KISHIMOTO AT HARVEY NICHOLS

The cute diamante buckle on the built-in belt brings instant glamour and sparkle to these slimline jeans. Wear with kitten heels for a night out, or, for a more laid-back look, team with white pumps such as the Converse Jack Purcell (call 01372 731343 for stockists). How much: blue denim, slim-fit trousers pounds 115. Stockist enquiries: 0171-235 5000.

4

WALLIS

Buy them a size too big for a hip-slung baggy look, or the right size for smart work-wear. Whichever way you choose, these are great cropped pants for all occasions. Buy now, before they sell out. How much: grey cropped trousers pounds 60. Stockist enquiries: 0181-910 1333.

5

PRESS & BASTYAN

White suits don't have to mean Martin Bell. Instead, think cool, slimming, smart, fashionable and adaptable. The jacket will look fabulous with jeans, but is also perfect for formal occasions. How much: white cotton jacket pounds 165, trousers pounds 95. Stockist enquiries: 01622 763211.

6

PRESS & BASTYAN

This suit's unusual deep grey colour provides a classy alternative to black and navy, while the curvy jacket with waist-cinching buckle is perfect for women who want to stand out from the crowd.

How much: charcoal viscose-mix suit jacket pounds 180, trousers pounds 95. Stockist enquiries: 01622 763211.

7

FRENCH CONNECTION

This smart suit is ideal for work, but has two unusual features that give it a more casual edge. First, it looks like denim - a material forbidden by most offices; secondly, the linen fabric crumples easily, resulting in a very comfortable-looking ensemble. How much: blue denim-style linen jacket pounds 150, suit trousers pounds 80. Stockist enquiries: 0171-399 7200.

8

AUSTIN REED

Whether casual, tailored or drawstring, wide-leg linen trousers are this season's must-have. Available in white, denim-style blue, and black, you can dress them up any which way you want.

How much: linen trousers pounds 79, grey lace cardigan tied around waist pounds 19.99. Stockist enquiries: 0800 585479; cardigan by George at Asda, 0113-243 5435.

9

NICOLE FARHI

Farhi triumphs again with a trouser that will instantly revive your wardrobe for a new season. These beige, supersoft, fluid wide-leg pants will be reached for again and again, and will prove especially popular with women keen not to emphasise their hips. How much: beige wool/silk-mix cropped trousers pounds 219. Stockist enquiries: 0171-499 8368.

10

TOP SHOP

If you're not afraid to expose your hips, then do it in these. The deep pockets are great for storing your lipstick in, and the trousers are infinitely light and comfortable. What more could a girl ask for? How much: beige cropped hipster trousers pounds 25. Stockist enquiries: 0800 731 8284.

11

WALLIS

This simple, pretty dress, with contrasting light-blue lace trim, offers the comfort of linen and a style that looks great on more curvaceous ladies. How much: blue denim-style linen dress pounds 75. Stockist enquiries: 0181-910 1333.

12

NEXT DIRECTORY

This skirt will make any woman radiate chic with its classic bias cut and modern pleating detail; the lace trim above the pleating makes it dressy enough for any occasion. How much: black knee-length pleat-trim skirt pounds 34.99. Stockist enquiries: 0345 100500; Directory page 68, code: B, M80222X23.

13

WAREHOUSE

Feminine and versatile, and in a length that goes with anything, this skirt will transform your wardrobe. Throw it on with a short-sleeved black shirt or white drawstring top, and you'll be sure to turn heads. How much: knee-length floral skirt pounds 35. Stockist enquiries: 0171-705 1901.

14

NICOLE FARHI

Gingham is a prominent look this spring, and the ideal investment for jazzing up a drab wardrobe. Wear proud prints and vibrant, contrasting colours for a cutting-edge designer look. How much: long black-and-white gingham-print skirt pounds 219. Stockist enquiries: 0171-499 8368.

15

PIED A TERRE

Revive your wardrobe with a dash of yellow, the perfect colour for this season. The soft fabric and drawstring hem are great design features, and are sure to banish the winter blues. How much: yellow silk parachute dress pounds 99. Stockist enquiries: 0171-491 3857.

16

WAREHOUSE

Cowl necks make a great alternative to the slash and V-necks that are currently filling the shops. This dress is perfect for fans of white, and the pastel flower print adds the right feminine note. How much: white floral cowl-neck dress pounds 50. Stockist enquiries: 0171-278 3491.

17

JOSEPH

With its provocative plunging neckline and fine leather strapping around the waist and shoulders, this dress is essential for spring soirees. How much: long black wrap-over dress with leather straps pounds 189. Stockist enquiries: 0171-590 6200.

18

OASIS

For those of us who cannot afford Pucci, this skirt is the perfect way to make a statement, with its punchy yet tasteful colouring. The elastic waist means you can wear it on the hip or waist. How much: knee-length kitsch-print skirt pounds 34.99. Stockist enquiries: 01865 881986.

19

FRENCH CONNECTION

This indigo satin skirt is refreshingly simple yet surprisingly glamorous. It has the distinct advantage of being suitable both for the office and for after-work drinks. How much: navy satin skirt with black elastic trim pounds 50. Stockist enquiries: 0171-399 7200.

20

TOP SHOP

Pretty in pink is how you'll feel in this dress. The drawstring gypsy-style neck is a high-fashion feature this spring, and very flattering. Wear with a three-quarter-length-sleeved cardigan and sexy kitten heels. How much: knee-length pink stretch dress pounds 35. Stockist enquiries: 0800 731 8284.

21

OWEN GASTER

Funnel necks are highly fashionable: buy them in wool, fleece or cotton. Wear the neck loose for a futuristic feel to your outfit, or draw it in tight, depending on your mood. How much: black funnel-neck top pounds 20. Stockist enquiries: 0171-262 3288.

22

KINGSHILL

In contrast to the picture, this shirt can be worn with the collar and sleeves turned up. The rich pink will brighten up your wardrobe and bring new life to the usual staple of monotonous greys and blacks. How much: pink long-sleeved shirt pounds 65. Stockist enquiries: mail order 01494 890555.

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29

MORGAN

The attractive knit detail around the neckline is certain to attract roving eyes. Go for the Audrey Hepburn look, and team this with plain tailored trousers or knee- length skirts for true Euro chic.

How much: raspberry detailed-knit scoop-neck jumper pounds 39.99. Stockist enquiries: 0171-383 2888.

30

PAUL COSTELLOE

A classic example of small-print gingham. Worn as a top with wide-legged, white linen trousers, or simply as a dress, with kitten heels, its colour and versatility make this a spring essential.

How much: yellow-and-white gingham shirt dress pounds 99. Stockist enquiries: 0171-589 9484.

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34

AUDLEY

If your style is simple chic, you will love these. The soft leather and wide slip-on styling make them as comfortable as slippers. Wear with long, straight skirts and wide-legged trousers for a utilitarian feel.

How much: cream leather flat mule pounds 80. Stockist enquiries: 0171-229 2292.

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46

CALVIN KLEIN AT H SAMUEL

This watch is simple and contemporary. It caters for both wearers of classic styles with a modern twist and those favouring a utilitarian look.

How much: ladies' matt silver watch with black face pounds 145. Stockist enquiries: 0181-905 9000.

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