HOT TO TROT: SOFTLY SOFTLY DOES IT FOR THE SUNSHINE DAYS

IF the first glimpse of Spring has you already planning your holiday wardrobe then get ready to look like a real woman again.

The latest spring/ summer collections are truly feminine and beguiling, following the current trend for softer tailoring.

Unstructured outfits are perfect for the warmer weather but be warned - 80s power dressing is on the way back for autumn according to London Fashion Week.

Yes, big ugly shoulder pads and thick belts have been spotted on the international catwalks.

Meanwhile, those who prefer a more flowing, look are well catered for in reasonably priced chains such as A. Wear, which has just launched one of its prettiest collections to date.

A. Wear - whose flagship store is on Dublin's Grafton Street - has changed direction in the last year, dropping its menswear section and losing its in-house John Rocha collection.

The store has retained its popular Quin and Donnelly and Marc O'Neill ranges however and the focus is now firmly on womenswear and accessories for the 18 to 35 age-group.

Skirt lengths cater for all shapes and sizes of legs, varying from thigh- high to ankle-length.

The more 'in' skirt length is to the knee with embroidered details and the odd pleated number making an appearance.

For an ultra-feminine look, team a longer length skirt with a delicate peasant style top in a butterfly print or in vaguely transparent pure white cotton.

Although grey has slipped back in to the new season's collections, there's plenty of colour around including pink, in every shade imaginable.

Pale blues and lilacs are popular for sun dresses, while khaki, steel grey, navy and plum predominate combats and outer-wear.

With the continued emphasis on urban sportswear, you will see lots of drawstring trousers and vest tops this summer, and hoods on everything from cocktail dresses to T-shirts.

If you prefer less of the unisex look, however, check out the girlie knitwear ranges which are now acting as an alternative to the jacket and blazer.

A. Wear's super-fine knits feature tiny rose-buds, embroidery and beading - it's very much a Paula Yates look when teamed with a strappy sun-dress.

It you are more of a Grace Kelly, opt for an elegant twin-set in a cool pastel shade.

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