The solution: It can be tricky striking the right chord in the office, so keep it simple. First, you need a couple of great basics.

A good pair of trousers will be invaluable this winter. Toast has a pair that are £115 and fashionable, yet classic enough to wear every day. It also has a black wrap top, £85, that is a total winner. It is versatile enough to offer value for money but doesn't look dull: wear it tucked into a high-waisted skirt or layer under a cardigan (www.toast.co.uk ).

The best thing about these pieces is that you can jazz them up. If you invest in good-quality clothes they will last, and you can keep them fresh with accessories. Have a look in Topshop, Miss Selfridge and Urban Outfitters, all of which have trendy bits.

Another good staple is a shift dress; Saltwater has the perfect style (above). It is 100 per cent wool, comes in soft grey and has a flattering nipped-in waist (£109 at www.saltwater.net). You can pre-order it now, as it doesn't arrive online for another couple of weeks. With any surplus money, how about buying a pair of shoe-boots? Office has a brilliant grey suede pair for £85 that will keep things fun and funky (www.office.co.uk ).

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