IT’S time to face facts. Summer just didn’t happen this year. While you might still be holding out hope the glimmer of an indian summer will yet warm the skies, the reality is autumn is just around the corner.

But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom, as a new season means new trends and that can only mean one thing – time to shop!

The most important fashion item of the Autumn/Winter season has to be a winter coat.

If the budget is tight forego the shoes and designer bags.

If there is one big investment you need to make this season, it's a new winter coat.

A style-savvy coat not only keeps the elements at bay, but gives you a fashion-forward look, whatever your outfit London Fashion Week showcased some fantastic styles in a whole range of patterns and colours, but if you can’t afford the designer price-tags don’t despair, the styles have been replicated on the high street at a much more comfortable price.

To give top fashion advice and help you make your choice wisely, Lakeside Shopping Centre’s Personal Shopper, Angela Pop lett, has cast her expert eye over some high street hotties.

Wrap up warm this winter in our pick of the most coveted coats.

The colours of the season are vibrant and loud with tomato red and rich purple leading the way.

Red is the perfect colour for a winter coat as it suits most complexions and brightens up a dull Autumn day.

Just make sure you go for the right shade of red. Brunettes should opt for a blue tone while blondes should go for a raspberry shade.

For an absolutely gorgeous red jacket, head to Red Herring, in Debenhams.

For those who want to stick to the more traditional colours, a crisp white winter coat is still very much in fashion.

You can pick up a fabulous white Raymack in House of Fraser. Metallic with a hint of grey, it’s the ideal colour for blondes!

When it comes to patterns, it’s all about embracing geometric and chequered prints. A mac- style chequered coat with big pussy cat bows is really popular this season,.

We’ve already seen bows on summer shirts and now they’ve made their way into our winter wardrobes too.

Dorothy Perkins has a gorgeous red and grey tartan coat with a big bow which is bound to be a top fashion item this season.

Voluptuous style coats were huge on the catwalk at London Fashion Week, but they’ve yet to appear on the high street, so make sure you snap anything up as soon as it hits the shops. It’s sure to be top of the fashion list come November.

For more casual coats, head to Next, which has heaps of styles to choose from, including a white duffel coat with a hood, perfect for the English weather.

New Look also has a whole range of fab practical coats at bargain prices.

l For more fashion advice, why not book yourself in for a personal shopping session with Angela? Just call 01708 869933 or visit www.lakeside.uk.com for details.