Black is the dominant colour for Autumn/Winter2008, followed closely by many shades of grey. There is also a focus on strong colours such as Midnight Blue, Bilberry, Red and Teal. Hemlines havedropped and fabrics also follow that same sense of contradiction with a return to traditional tweeds, checks and plaids, combined with more opulent fabrics like satin, sheers, and lace, all contrasted with a modern feel. Pictured left to right: YSL skirt €1700, Polo €495. Dolce & Gabbana three piece suit €2225

New Labels To Love: Halston There’s been quite a flurry of excitement surrounding the re-launch of Halston this season.With major industry players Harvey Weinstein,Tamara Mellon and Rachel Zoe involved in the project, this will be the collection of the season. The name Halston has always been synonymous with luxury and simplicity. For Autumn/Winter2008 Halston expands on these ideals with a modern approach. The collection is built on the foundation of the innate confidence of a woman. Each piece plays on a present-day version of the iconic and timeless House. Halston staples, such as simple skirts and blouses, ultra stylish shirtdresses, and evening dresses made of Italian cashmeres and French silks, are evident from day to night. All are presented in the Halston signature colour palette comprised of dusty pastels. Pictured left to right: Halston Grey Full Lenght Jersey Dress €1995, Halston Blush Full Lenght Stapless Dress €4995

Young Contemporary There is a lot of excitement and innovation in Young Contemporary as Autumn/Winter2008 brings with it six new brands to Brown Thomas. Dresses continue to dominate with this season’s emphasis focused on “prim and proper” looks. The look is demure featuring high necklines, cinched waists, and hemlines that fall to mid calf. This season sees the return of the blouse, often adorned with voluminous sleeves and pussycat bows. Lace and sheer fabrics are back with a vengeance, but this time it’s with a gothic edge. Trousers look to the 70’s as the high waist and wide legs are the order of the day.Theatrical styling prevails.Think cabaret and circus as brightly coloured tuxedo jackets, Pierrot collars, velvets and satins create drama.

PPQ is Amy Molyneaux and Percy Parker’s London label. It began as a collaboration between friends active in the art,music and fashion worlds. What’s resulted is a cult like following amongst London’s trendsetters. PPQ have become synonymous for their signature and esired looks; luxe pop-chic and underground London cool. This season over emphasized theatrical styling featuring velvet and satin prom dresses lures the likes of Peaches Geldof, Amy Winehouse and Lily Allen.

Rag & Bone was founded out of the sheer frustrations of Kentucky born Marcus Wainwright and David Neville not being able to buy the jeans they wanted to wear. Their mission was simple, they set about to make clothes both they and their friends would love to wear.The designers are guided by a strong British tailoring influence. Rag & Bone produces classic yet modern sportswear for women that are known for being understated and wearable. Each piece, whether it is a tailored shirt or a pair of jeans, is framed by the constants of high quality fabric, classic construction and perfect fit with a handmade feel.

Richard Ruiz lives and works in New York City but is a native of San Francisco. Renowned for his signature prints and the scarf dress, this season focuses on pretty Victorian and bold Egyptian inspired creations. Celebrity clients include Lauren Hill, Heather Headley and Celine Dion. Love Moschino: A new member to the Moschino family Love Moschino has inherited Moschino’s DNA character and creativity, expressing it with the strongest weapon; Love. The brand is keener on dictating trends than following them, and has a very typically Italian feel. Watch out for tailored demure mid calf length dresses with pretty detailing.