La Mode and other Things: Snuggle Bunny

D&G Autumn/Winter 2010

When times are hard we all crave a bit of comfort. Everyone knows the feeling: you're stressed by work, it's pouring with rain or perhaps you're just having one of those days. Suddenly all you want is mashed potato and gravy, a big hug and a warm duvet to curl up in.

It seems designers understand that feeling too. Tear out page 'No Pain No Gain' from the fashion rule book because this winter the tables have turned. Being comfortable has never been so chic.

D&G Autumn/Winter 2010

If stressful days drive me to the mashed potato it seems a global recession sends designers running for the comfort blanket. The Autumn/Winter shows were awash with all things snuggly. At D&G cheery reindeer motifs and snowflake prints covered chunky belted knits and fluffy snow boots warmed the models' feet.

Just a few weeks ago Selfridge's was invaded by a flock of Selfridge yellow sheep and Savile Row became a grassy field for the day as part of Woolmark's 'Campaign for Wool'. Over recent years the demand for wool has fallen dramatically, hence the campaign launched by Woolmark.

With D&G on the case however, they really shouldn't worry. Wool suddenly looks far more desirable already.

Chanel Autmn/Winter 2010

Besides from warmth this trend is to me about one thing and one thing only: cuddle factor. And what is more cuddly than a fluffy teddy bear?

Fur is having its heyday. As the nights draw in wrapping oneself in fur seems the only way to beat the winter blues. What better way to make life seem brighter than by wearing a hug?

Chanel Autmn/Winter 2010

Oh but did I mention this is all about faking it? After a Chanel collection entirely dedicated to faux-fur Karl Lagerfeld has deemed the real deal demodé. Now you can keep the cuddle factor whilst being right on trend and maintaining a clear conscience at the same time.

If you fall within the vast majority of the population, meaning D&G and Chanel lie beyond the reach of your pocket, fret not. The high-street is heaving with affordable alternatives to transform you into a stylish snuggle bunny.

I very very nearly bought this coat (£69.99, Zara). I tried it on initially as a joke. I wanted to look like a yeti. However, as soon as the white shaggy number was on my back I never wanted to take it off. Not only was I warmed from head to toe, but I felt instantly and extravagantly fabulous. Such was the feeling when I wore this coat that I was tempted to part with £70. That is, until I read the care label that read 'no machine washing, no hand washing, no dry-cleaning. Do not get wet.'

I do think there is something ridiculously glamorous about owning a coat you can never wash, but unfortunately I'm not quite that glamorous.

The faux-fur on the collar of this wooly teddy-bear coat (£59.99) is so soft it could be real. Don't worry though, no animals were harmed in the making of this coat.

This frock coat from Miss Selfridge (£90) mixes two of the most tactile fabrics - soft velvet and snuggly faux-fur. Prim and ladylike it just looks just the thing to wear to the theatre. With big fluffy ear-muffs of course.

Capes are big this season so this furry one (£95 Miss Selfridge) is right on the money. Basically like wearing a bear.

Next always used to make me think of mums and that horrible phone book of a catalogue (far too many autumn leaves and sickeningly happy children). Recent seasons, however, have seen a turn-around for the high-street giant. I no longer feel embarrassed shopping in Next, and could have very easily got carried away in the Westfield's shop near to my college. I love this cropped cream jacket and it's a snip at £30.