Winter 2012

With a mix of punky plaids, tweedy separates, and prim pointed-toe flats, we like to think of Topshop's Autumn/Winter collection as a hybrid of cool-girl stylings from Britain's fashion darlings. We could see both Alexa Chung's boy-meets-girl street style and Poppy Delevingne's effortless-chic in the trench coats, leather skirts, loafers, and tweed crop tops from Topshop's latest line-up. Right down to the boxy handheld satchels, quilted leather, and red-plaid skinnies, the brand balances British prep-school punk with a more sophisticated, ladylike spin. In short, it's perfect for playing the part of any of London's trendsetters (no Pommy accent required).

It's not just makeup that changes with the season, skincare very much needs to adapt to the elements, too. And if you haven't made the switch to richer, more nourishing creams that will help replace some of that moisture that Winter winds (and cosy heaters) suck out of our skin, it's not too late. And it needn't be a big expense, either. We've shopped around to bring you five Winter essentials that will overhaul your kit for the chilly season all totalling to just $47.07.

With shorter days and long, cold nights ahead of us the perfect place to be is at home, rugged up with a beautiful candle burning close by. So whether you're looking for a new addition to your collection — we always are! — or are treating a friend or a loved one to a gorgeous gift, be sure to check out our edit of cute, cult and coveted candles right now.

As soon as the season changes we bring out those rich face creams, up the ante on the elbow moisturising and switch from a lightweight lotion to body butter, but what about our hair? It tends to get left behind feeling all dry and sorry for it after a sun-soaked Summer. The good news is, it's easy to inject some much-needed hydration back into distressed tresses with a nourishing moisture mask. Much like the kind you'd use on your face. Here are five fab finds that'll do the job and restore moisture (and with it, that salon-worthy shine) in no time.

When the cold, wet weather hits, lips inevitably get drier. That's why it's never been more important to have a good lip balm, or two, at hand. Sure, we can all speak of the benefits of cult classics like Carmex, Blistex and Nivea lip balms, but there are some other big names that you should familiarise yourself with. From new releases to boutique buys, here's our edit of the 10 best lip balms to add to your collection before the temperatures drop even further!

One of the hardest areas hit by the drop in temperatures is our hands. Gone are the soft, smooth paws that were sporting pretty pastel polish a few months back and in their place? Dry, scaly skin that a croc would be jealous of. So let's change all that shall we. Here's our edit of 10 hand creams that not only look the part but will also have your hands in tip-top shape in no time.

Buying genuine leather isn't cheap, and that's why you want to get it right. The most hardworking fashion investment you'll ever make, leather items never age and only get better with wear — which is completely awesome. Think about your leather purchase in price per wear over say, five years, and the initial spend really is worth it. The real deal will keep you warm as toast, so with Winter's dreary arrival, there's no better time to buy. So whether you're a skirt girl, a dress girl or an all-round leather lover, check out six of our favourite pieces. Mmmm, so soft.

When the temperature dips, the first thing we reach for is a cosy neck-wrap. A scarf with substance is a non-negotiable essential in anyone's core Winter wardrobe, so we've collated our top ten super-warm styles that are in stores now. From punchy brights to ward off those grey days to fringed wraps to pom-pom finished snoods to chunky, textural weaves — we've got all bases (and necks!) covered. Make sure you're covered up, in the chicest way possible with our online edit.

We're continuing with our Essential Winter Wardrobe series — forgive us for the break in transmission. We did have the MTV Movie Awards (Monday) and the CFDA Awards (Tuesday) to contend with! You should have your oversized knit situation sorted, and know how to work a pair of leggings by now, so today we're showcasing this season's standout boot buy — the pull-on ankle boot. This low-heeled, easy to wear wonder will become a go-to, trust us! If you don't already own a pair, snoop our online round-up of the best styles around; from leopard printed pretties to unexpected khaki hues to the original Dicker boot that kick-started the trend (thanks Isabel Marant!), you needn't look any further than our top ten edit.