Prim is in

Seductive and simple, prim is in! Inspired by Maggie Gyllenhaal's character in the film Secretary, released earlier this year, pencil skirts, prim blouses and high heels are the new chic.

Gone are the badly dressed, just-out-of-bed-look days as the well-chosen office ensembles make it to the front of your wardrobe. Think tie-neck blouses, silk-cashmere cardigans, knee-length skirts (belt optional) and stiletto heels. All the basics to make you look seductive and subversive at the office.

While most office workers probably long to escape the regimented uniform look that has been in place for decades, now is not the time. This autumn, the blouse and skirt have been revitalized, as designers look back to the decades when these simple pieces were far from boring.

The exaggerated femininity of the Forties and Fifties has inspired both designers and the high street to rethink daywear and make it as sexy as evening. To complement the new men's power-dressing you can exude boardroom confidence with an office look that is sexy yet understated. Wear tweed with chiffon for neutral tailoring. Add leather gloves in red or green for the season's most important accessory.