Ah, winter! Season of slouch boots and baggy shapelessness! But it doesn’t have to be so. Warm, waterproof clothing and shoes can (and should) be shapely and stylish too.

The upside of winter fashions is that one can hide a multitude of sins under all those layers. Of course you wouldn’t dream of concealing a tummy-bulge under a heavy jacket, or pulling a woolly hat over unwashed hair … but it happens here and there. And if it’s done positively, it can look very, very chic. There is actually more opportunity for classy clothing choices in winter than in summer, when every garment looks lightweight and revealing and fashion can seem to be more about the tan than the line.

Winter style is about giving structure and flow to those layers. Think long cardigans, belted, broad-shouldered coats and sexy wool dresses. Practical boots with high, chunky heels team up well with extra-long black trousers for a leaner, taller silhouette. An A-line tweed skirt worn with a narrow-waisted tailored jacket is both warm and very feminine. And accessorizing in winter is fun. Matching hats and gloves! Stripy scarves and knee-high socks! Mmm, fake fur and slouch boots! … *sigh* … Why can’t it snow all year round?

If you do want to live in sweater and pants, choose garments with a shape and, moreover, the right shape for you. V-necks are flattering to round faces. A cowl neck or a quilted gilet adds necessary bulk to the top half of a pear-shaped figure. Stretch cords, bootleg jeans and brightly-colored trousers are great options for cheering up the drabber, flabbier days.

Bear in mind that your face and hands are the only parts of your skin that most people are likely to see. Cold weather, hot water, central heating and lack of fresh air all take their toll. Pay a little extra attention to moisturizing, exfoliating and outdoor exercise and you’ll glow your way through winter.