Fashion for Spring and Summer 1997 remains pared down with a retro feel. Simple shapes and close-fitting clothes give a long and lean look.

Think Charlie's Angels and Starsky & Hutch. Spaghetti straps, string bikinis, strapless tops, crochet and hideous prints have all made a comeback. Seventies striped knitwear is in but definitely for fashion victims only. More wearable are trouser suits with slim fitting, single-breasted jackets and cigarette pants.

Dresses dominated the catwalk shows for spring and summer 1997. Shapes were simple and hems were mainly ankle length although mid thigh is a good choice for those with the legs for it. Floral prints and Oriental patterns provided femininity. Dramatically cut and draped jersey is the option for a more sophisticated look.

Waterfall ruffles appeared on dresses and blouses. Not the pelmet like tiers of so many bridesmaid dresses but floaty, feminine frills. Cascading from the neckline, cuff or hem.

Chiffon, lace, cobweb knits and transparent fabrics are big news. For those not wishing to display breasts and bulges (i.e. most of us), sheers can be layered, or worn with flesh coloured underwear

Black and white remains catwalk classics but colour has definitely made a comeback. No one colour dominates but orange and blue were popular choices. And (surprise surprise) brown is not the new black.

Want to update you wardrobe without spending a fortune?

• Try jumble sales, car boot sales and charity shops for genuine seventies clothes
• Invest in a chiffon or lace T-shirt to wear under jackets
• Keep your leggings for aerobics classes or consign them to the dustbin
• Forget about anything with a collar. Necklines are V-shaped, round, slashed or asymmetrical but essentially collarless
• Sorry, but that perm has just got to go. In London, try Vidal Sassoon Academy(0171-499-5808) or Toni & Guy Academy (0171-486-4733) for bargain cuts by supervised trainees.