I've been talking to Katie again! My friend Katie, you may recall, is a firm follower of fashion. Not that you'll find her strolling round Manchester with combat trousers tucked into jewel-encrusted stiletto boots (what on earth is that look all about, I ask myself). No, you're more likely to find her fixed to a copy of one of the latest trends' magazines downstairs in Selfridges, wearing a beautifully tailored, cutting edge, suede Nicole Fahri suit.

At around £65, these magazines are a great source of info for those wanting a glimpse of fashion 2004/5 (there are usually one or two left open for viewing).

"There is now the craziest of fashion magazines for pregnant women and kids, sort of a Vogue for kids'. In it they show babies as exclusive, desirable accessory must haves! Baby slings to match your outfit whether it's Burberry or the latest in designer sheepskin.

"The funniest article was written to help those with pregnancy problems. Sounds pretty average? Not in this magazine. No problems as unfashionable as heartburn, this article tackled the difficulties in bending down to paint your toenails! The answer? Socks! Socks, that is, with diamante sewn onto each toe and an ankle bracelet attached -good grief!"

Knitting is back, Katie informs me. Oh yes, you ain't nobody if you haven't been seen browsing round your local wool shop in the last few weeks. Forget the copy of Hello to keep me occupied on my next train journey, I'll have knitted my own hat and be wearing it by the time I get off at Euston next week.

So what are the beautiful people doing?

"Still dropping their trousers off their hips, but this time wearing them short and wide with heels think Kylie.

"Capri length combats with socks and stilettos - don't think that will make it through to Cumbria.

"Lots of articles are targeting fashion hoarders," says Katie.

Well I know a lot of people here in the North who are guilty of that. Down South, the It Girls' have already filled the charity shops leaving a capsule wardrobe hanging airily from their leather hangers. Not for them the bad Feng Shui of an over-stuffed closet. Spring clean! Get rid: those flared disco pants you wore to the school prom may well turn up again on Jodie Kidd but your daughter would never be seen dead in them. It's 2003, even the Queen has moved on that fab grey trouser suit.

Do yourself a favour, grab that charity bag on the doorstep and fill it!

February 6, 2003 11:30