Winter trends are about a creating a cocktail of outfits and designs

This winter 2007/2008 it's time to go Retro! The seventies are back with a bang and the old old is the new new. But wait, before those 40 somethings amongst you go diving into the depths of your wardrobe - this year's fashion is not about a reintroduction of the early seventies style but a reinvention!

Winter trends are about a creating a cocktail of outfits and designs which break all those 70's rules. A fusion of yesterday's traditional styles with today's cuts and sharp clean colors.

Retro does not mean 'old fashioned'. Rather it is synonymous with 'timeless' or classic and such are this season's colors - timeless and classic monochromes with an infusion of grays, earthy browns and powerful purples.

The cardigan sees a revival along with the turtleneck and tapered trousers, and striped shirts. The best dressed man in the high street this winter shows just how to wear a synergy of dressy and casual within the same outfit.

Classy Cardigans

Winter 2007/2008 sees updated versions of your granddad's cardigan or your dad's sweater, with a slimmer more modern close fitting cut, in lightweight wools and classy cashmere. These retro sweaters are thin enough to wear under a jacket or a versatile zip up cardigan, which in turn can be worn over a turtleneck and look great with this season's straight legged pants.

Throw a chunky cotton sweater over your t-shirt and teem it with tapered trousers or jeans. Much of their inspiration is based on the reinvention of the ski jumper with a fresh new feel. V-neck cardigans and cardigan vests or pulllovers should be fitted close to the chest, perfect for layering. For a real retro feel go for some patches on the elbow - granddad style.

Sweaters, vests and cardigans are no longer for 'wrinklies' but have a fresh young attitude, especially when combined with the ski theme which adds a sporty note.

Pinstripe Pants

The revival of the classic pinstripe gives great versatility in creating business casual or popular party wear. Perfect for all occasions, you can dress them up or down. Teem them with a smart striped shirt, or a chunky sweater or ski jacket for a modern look. Pinstripes are in; whatever size, whatever color, but remember that pants are more tapered to give a slimmer, sleeker silhouette this year.

Twill, pants are back in retro style but this time, flat fronted not pleated. Match them with a cashmere gray or monochrome turtleneck sweater for classy chic. Add a pair of silver brogue shoes for a complete effect.