The androgyny trend

'''With mens' jeans tightening, necklines dropping to dangerously cleavage revealing levels and Ollie Locke from 'Made in Chelsea' existing, it's no wonder women have decided that two can play at this gender-swapping game. The androgynous trend this season doesn't mean merely borrowing your boyfriend's hoody but neither do you have to get a buzzcut and wear a tie. It's a trend that has continually surfaced in the fashion scene (think Annie Lennox's power suits and Katharine Hepburn's casual androgynous chic) but this winter it's bigger than ever. To keep the look from going overly sexually ambiguous remember it's all about masculine tailoring and borrowing male fashions whilst maintaining a feminine edge.'''

If you've not yet invested in a winter coat or just fancy a new one, boyfriend coats are everywhere at the moment and Zara does a bright version . Their loose shape means teaming with skinnies is a must to give the outfit a bit of shape. This type of coat is also dominating Topshop's rails this season and spending all your money on a new coat is definitely worth it, even if only to wear it indoors all Winter when you can't afford to put your heating on. However, if you like a bit more structure from your coats, you can channel your inner inspector gadget with a traditional trench coat.

Adding some androgynous style to a more dressy look has never been so easy than with tuxedo jackets a la Marks and Spencer which would make a chic cover up over night time dresses. For more casual daytime looks more slouchy boyfriend blazers are a good bet such as this one from Forever 21.

Of course, androgynous style is nothing without the shirt. Be it oversized and slouchy or fitted and buttoned all the way to the top, it is the key feature in androgynous looks. A sleek and simple plain white shirt works well, and you can even add a bow tie for extra masculine quirkiness. However, is that's going too far for you, High Street stores have already cottoned onto the trend by producing more feminine bow collars such as this one which will add another interesting element to your outfit.

As for trousers, never underestimate the power of the skinny but if you're slightly concerned about any festive period bulges, peg trousers are a great alternative, especially teamed with a masculine check print. Team with brogues or if you're feeling really adventurous a pair of creepers which have been a popular choice this year. I, for one, know I have risked life and limb many a time trying to climb down steep steps in these bad boys.

Top the look of with a trilby, a satchel, slicked back hair and if you feel like really pushing the trend, you can chuck some suspenders into the mix as well.

With the rise of the metrosexual not seeming to abate any time soon and the continual shift in traditional gender stereotypes, this is a trend that is in it for the long run so better to hop on now.