The fashion briefing

Look of the week The past few days in ­Milan have seen some of fashion’s biggest ­designers, from ­Versace to Jil Sander, presenting their ­autumn/winter ­collections. In this Italian city, there are always two camps - super, super sexy ­versus quirky and ­intellectual. Prada (pictured) fits into the latter, and as it ­continues to be one of the most ­important ­barometers for the ­direction in which fashion will move next, take note. The latest collection saw the label revive and rework some of its signature looks. Cue geometric 60s prints, A-line skirts, pointy ­stilettos and fantastic texture mixing - think heavy knits with glossy patent leather. To be ahead of the curve, opt for skinny bow belts over jumpers, a look you can start putting ­together right away.
Photograph: Catwalking.com

Splurge These shoes require a pedicure, a taxi and possibly a steady arm to guide you through the night. This is not footwear for daylight hours. But you gotta love the platform, the bamboo detail and the all-round strappiness. So molto sexy. So Gucci. £450, gucci.com
Photograph: PR

Get the Milan look Forget mannish blazers – they’re far too low-key for channelling Milanese style. Instead you’ll need to rock some higher voltage outerwear. Fur – faux of course – or something in leather is the obvious choice. But it’s show ­season, so obvious is not the way to go. This fringed suede Warehouse bolero has something of ­Cavalli about it. Wear slung around the shoulders of a sexy day dress. £150, warehouse.co.uk
Photograph: PR

Finishing touch While this fuchsia and green brass Roberto ­Cavalli snake bracelet is distinctive, it is not screaming at the top of its lungs. Brilliant for ­ramping up a day look or finishing off a night one. £275, netaporter.com
Photograph: PR

Eye look of the week According to Dolce & Gabbana, their latest makeup collection has been designed for “a woman who must play countless roles”. See their adverts with Madonna cleaning, hanging out the washing, crying etc. World-renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath has collaborated on the extensive range so you’re in expert hands. Top pick is this purple/brown eye shadow combo – a sure-fire way to create the perfect sultry eye. £22, selfridges.com
Photograph: PR

And for the chaps ... This March sees the trench being reworked by a team of menswear experts in a collaboration with Topman. Mihara Yasuhiro’s is in stone and full length, B Blessing’s is zippy and Tim Soar has done an olive pac-a-mac. The stand-out two though, are Topman Design’s pared back grey and black ­version (pictured) and stylist Alistair ­Mackie’s navy number, which is belted with an oversized collar and a paisley lining. From £80, topman.com
Photograph: Teri Pengilley