Return to Russian Romanticism

For those who long to play dress up and return to the days when women were sensual creatures, both mysterious and feminine, look no further than the coming season. This fall sees an indulgent return to romance.

The new fashions celebrate femininity and heroines from literature and the past. From the looks of Imperial Russia and Victorian England to the Katherine Hepburnesque glamour of the thirties and forties and the sexy silhouette of the Hollywood starlet back in its heyday, this coming season offers the proverbial "something for everyone".

For lovers of Russia's era of beauty and drama, turn to Kenzo for a regal, yet earthy mid-calf-length coat in burgundy complete with sumptuous embroidery. For a more modern version, a Hussar-style black jacket by Roberto Cavalli, with the designer's signature opulent detailing, paired with a pair of black, velvet trousers tucked over a pair boots will do the trick.

Meanwhile Yves Saint Laurent provides a stunning ensemble in ton-sur-ton ecru; a billowing embroidered knee-length coat over tulip skirt harks back to the days when royalty also dressed as such. Equally unforgettable is a fitted coat with luxuriously thick fur trim along the bottom and Cossack hat by Costume National, which call to mind images of tragic figures in Russian literature like Onegin.

For a more folksy, rustic Russian look - think Lara in Doctor Zhivago or any of the daughters in "Fiddler on the Roof" combined with a bit of Boho glamour - look no further than Miu Miu, Anna Sui - who does a delightfully modern take on the traditional Sarafan - and Diane von Furstenberg. Plenty of tweeds and wool peasant dresses decorated with colourful, flamboyant embroidery, paired with lace up boots, transport us to the Russian plains, where we can imagine ourselves dancingly around freely singing "Matchmaker Matchmaker, make me a match".

Come fall and winter, make sure to invest in a few good romantic pieces. If your budget or attention limits you to just one, chose a great Russian style coat or jacket that can be paired with dressy black pants or skirt, or even a simple pair of jeans tucked into knee-high boots. You'll be all the rage.