Well, apart from coming in a mind boggling assortment of shapes and colours, the Poncho also does have a certain boho charm, but they're not exactly the most practical of outdoor garments (most are covered in holes). Like most things, fashion trends come in cycles.

Ponchos were incredibly popular circa 1999, along with Pashminas and Biker Jackets, I must admit to wearing one, in the bitterest conditions. But five years and two cases of bronchial pneumonia later, I have to concede -this is ridiculous

As I flicked through my usual stack of glossy magazines and saw the likes of Minnie Driver, Kate Moss and Halle Berry donning their Ponchos for premieres, I resisted the temptation to reach into my wardrobe, blow the dust off my old Top-Shop poncho and freeze my butt outside whilst waiting to get into some nightclub. Oh No! Been there and done that.

So the timeless and equally fabulous 'long leather', was chosen instead. The thing is, although we all like the idea of walking around looking like a modern day, more image-conscious version of Pocahontas, I can't deny the Poncho does seem a little…well…last Tuesday.

If you already have one, then by all means throw it over that sexy strapless number or ripped jeans when u go out, and wear it with pride. But if you don't, then there's no need to go rushing to the highstreet to get one, after all by the time you get there, it's probably gone out of style all over again and everyone will be wearing Pashminas (or Biker Jackets).

But for those of you who keep a watchful eye, word on the red carpet is there's a newcomer in town. It's reminiscent of the 50's and transforms the wearer into an all round glamourpuss - it’s the Gilet. So if you really want that edge, pass on Poncho and go for Gilet! Here are some of our favourite Gilets and where you can cop them.


SYRITA'S HIGH STREET SELECTION
Brown suede gilet with fur trim, £50, Principles.
White faux fur gilet, £25, Mk One.
Purple faux fur gilet, £30, Dorothy Perkins.
Cream faux fur zip-up gilet, £40, Principles.
Cream fur gilet, £55, Matthew Williamson at Debenhams.

posted:sep04

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