This season is all change and not for the better either. Start with the colour palette.

Usually there are clear indications about what is 'in' and what is 'out'. This summer the message is that bold black and whites, subtle navy and taupes as well as neutrals, whites and creams are all perfectly acceptable as a starting point. Add to this the nu-rave neon brights, dirty pastels, soft greys and anything in between including browns and naval reds.

And did we mention that black is still THE colour of le moment?

Skirts are pencil, bubble, mini, maxi and tulip, although this season, as you know, it is all about the dress . . . whether you wear it loose and billowing or sports-jersey style, over leggings and cinched at the waist. Trousers are highwaisted and flared, low-waisted and skinny, high-street, vintage or designer, long, short or anywhere in between. Jackets are tuxedo or micro-mac, boxy or cocoon.

No point looking to a historical reference points either as the 1930s, '40s, '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s and even '90s influences are running concurrently right now.

My advice? Stave off new clothes for the next few weeks while fashion finds its newseason feet. Stick with your basics for now and a clearer picture will emerge. If it doesn't, take the year off. That's what I'll be doing.