Trend Alert

Firstly let's get one thing straight; Red is not the new black. Black is, was and always will be the new black. Red is, however this season's statement colour.

The catwalks of Christopher Kane, Alexander McQueen, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren were awash with scarlet hues.

To work this look by day, accentuate darker colours with a standout red accessory or liven up your office outfit with a ruffled red blouse.

At night stepping out in a red dress will turn heads. Keep accessories simple to avoid overkill; add a chunky black belt or, when it gets a little cooler, thick black tights. Pairing red with black is big news but be careful, this is one look which can go from chic to cheap very easily.

1. Red ruffle front blouse, £30 at Wallis (top left)

2.Vintage 1950s red velvet dress, £55 at Beyond Retro (centre)

3.Puff sleeve crochet top, £25 at Dorothy Perkins (top right)

4.J by Jasper Conran Red Shoes, £65 at Debenhams (bottom right)

5. Betty Jackson red bag, £70 at Debenhams (bottom left)