No doubt forcibly washed in as a result of the global economic tsunami, every fashion week I've attended in the last few months aren't really what they used to be. Over the years they brought us sexy. They introduced us to daring. They dazzled us with precise, slinky tailoring and luxurious accessories. And often they notably treated us to those revealing, attention-seeking frocks that were not always the it-does-what-it-says-on-the-tin variety. But while some fashion designers offered up sexy-boho and others something more sensually fierce at our most recent fashion events, the trends have stayed true to the core brands, giving us nothing truly different - in the same way that Cherry Coke and Diet Coke are still Coca-Cola.

But all is not lost as the first sign that this season is going to be different came recently when department store group Myer paraded its autumn/winter collection to the fashion press, and the response was that the clothing range is getting better. The event featured stand out trends including fabulous leather leggings and à la mode aviator jackets that are a must have item this winter. In fact, you may not realise it yet, but your shopping list for this winter will look something like this: One piece of minimalist camel or grey tailoring, at least one pair of smartly cut trousers, one 1950s- or 1960s-inspired party dress, and one aviator jacket. Most women may yet have to decide what to wear this season, but the high street designs on offer at such accessible prices at Myer will most certainly have you covered. There's also a baroque collection - a modern take on all things baroque, 70s in feel, with a strong flamboyant edge, as well as a fun and eclectic preppy range, and a military collection with new silhouettes and a more feminine edge.

This season exotic elements make a chic resurgence - animal prints, tribal prints, feathers, and fur are all major staples this winter taking form in accessories, gloves, scarves, bags, shoes, and clothing. The choice of patterns are eye-catching and have a unique, global feel The Myer fashion event was a-buzz with how hot fashion has become without the usual price tag - the two prerequisites for feasible fashion.

This might sound very Ab-Fab but, as one fashion analyst pointed out, a press launch does exactly what it says on the tin - generate gushing prose on the fashion pages. It bears little comparison to what will eventually arrive in the shops. There was no sign of any elastic-waisted skirts and sensible cardigans that feature in Myer's classic collection, for those with a bus pass in their purse. But I've been assured that the majority of the product on show will be rolled out most Myer stores, which proves yet again that major department stores are well ahead of the beat in fashion-forward thinking.

While some remain sceptical that major department stores have finally trumped the masterminds behind fashion, nevertheless their collections do set the tone, offering feasible fashion that's otherwise best in show. In a way, major department stores are taking the mickey out of our culture's dogged obsession with high-end fashion that offers a type of beauty that most of us can only dream about. Well, dream no more...this season you can definitely afford the high-end look without emptying out your purse.

Bella Beauty Magazine