This winter 2007/2008 it's time to go Retro! The seventies are back with a bang and the old old is the new new. But wait, before those 40 somethings amongst you go diving into the depths of your wardrobe - this year's fashion is not about a reintroduction of the early seventies style but a reinvention!

Winter trends are about a creating a cocktail of outfits and designs which break all those 70's rules. A fusion of yesterday's traditional styles with today's cuts and sharp clean colors.

Retro does not mean 'old fashioned'. Rather it is synonymous with 'timeless' or classic and such are this season's colors - timeless and classic monochromes with an infusion of grays, earthy browns and powerful purples.

The cardigan sees a revival along with the turtleneck and tapered trousers, and striped shirts. The best dressed man in the high street this winter shows just how to wear a synergy of dressy and casual within the same outfit.

Classy Cardigans

Winter 2007/2008 sees updated versions of your granddad's cardigan or your dad's sweater, with a slimmer more modern close fitting cut, in lightweight wools and classy cashmere. These sweaters are thin enough to wear under a jacket or a versatile zip up cardigan, which in turn can be worn over a turtleneck and look great with this season's straight legged pants.

Throw a chunky cotton sweater over your t-shirt and teem it with tapered trousers or jeans. Much of their inspiration is based on the reinvention of the ski jumper with a fresh new feel. V-neck cardigans and cardigan vests or pulllovers should be fitted close to the chest, perfect for layering. For a real retro feel go for some patches on the elbow - granddad style.

Sweaters, vests and cardigans are no longer for 'wrinklies' but have a fresh young attitude, especially when combined with the ski theme which adds a sporty note.

Pinstripe Pants

The revival of the classic pinstripe gives great versatility in creating business casual or popular party wear. Perfect for all occasions, you can dress them up or down. Teem them with a smart striped shirt, or a chunky sweater or ski jacket for a modern look. Pinstripes are in; whatever size, whatever color, but remember that pants are more tapered to give a slimmer, sleeker silhouette this year.

Twill, pants are back in style but this time, flat fronted not pleated. Match them with a cashmere gray or monochrome turtleneck sweater for classy chic. Add a pair of silver brogue shoes for a complete effect.

Stripy Shirts

The pinstripe theme spills over into this season's shirts. From bold to narrow stripes, anything goes.

It Suits Me

Debonair double-breasted or three piece suits are back, giving a very British 1970's feel. So are large lapelled or brass button blazers in trendy tweeds and plaids. Don't forget cashmere or corduroy is in or you can even go for moleskin to give you that aristocratic country air. Add some elbow patches for ultra trendy.

Going Gray

Put away those loud, vibrant colors; neutral, classic tones are the business this winter. Versatile black and white, and this season's spin on gray, keep the look sleek and minimalist. Gray is no longer boring - all shades of grey can give power or neutrality to an outfit. Teem it with black for a softer look. From pewter to platinum, charcoal and smoky gray to the more subtle tones, gray is now the young man's black. You don't have to be of the white haired generation to wear it well!

Space aged metallic and iridescent fabrics are a great alternative for livening up an outfit. If you also want to introduce a little color to your wardrobe then keep to earthy rich tones of browns, greens and plums. These will give your ensemble a lift and give it class.

Being stylish this winter doesn't have to break the bank! With careful planning and an eye for what suits you best, all you need is a few keynote pieces to mix and match to create this winter's retro styles.