The folk club

The bo-ho look that has dominated casual fashion for years veers off for this autumn-winter into a more considered and altogether more interesting realm, taking for its inspiration an eclectic range of folk art influences from around the world, from mythical England to the Nordic lands and Native America.

These influences collide to give a nomadic feel, the sort of look that is crying out for sturdy suede fur-lined boots, preferably teamed with long johns or leggings, topped off with a fleecy poacher hat, making it the perfect deep winter way to dress.

It's probably easiest to start with pattern, so look for chunky Fair Isle knits emblazoned with a black and white arctic star pattern, to wear over kilts, leggings and flat ankle boots. Or try an apron-style tunic dress with primitive floral embroidery, or a short tunic dress with folk art print. Mix in woollen tights and faux fur collars and gilets. Look out for maxi dresses and all-in-ones too – as long as the print is the right side of homespun and naive, you won't go far wrong. If you like, there's an edgy, mystical feel to this look, dark woods and medieval dens, so choose prints that reflect this.

Shearling mixes in very effectively, so if you have already bought this season's shearling aviator jacket, this will work well, especially if it is slightly oversized (if you can dig out your father's old shearling car coat, so much the better).

Accessories are especially important with this look. Woollen and faux fur mittens are a must, and there are some rather wonderful fringed and tasselled bags around, to give that on-the-move touch.

Don't be afraid to blend in other trends for this season too, as it's a forgiving, wide-ranging theme that is supposed to reflect many influences. So try adding lace or a military jacket into the mix. Play around. This is a look to make all your own.