AS WINTER creeps ever closer, it's that time of year to wrap up warm from the bitter cold.

But that doesn't mean the fashion-conscious man-about-town needs to be any less stylish as a wealth of winter ware hits the high street stores in time for Christmas.

For those of you with plenty of black tie dos in the run-up to Christmas, there need be no more headaches taking your suit to the dry cleaners thanks to M&S.

Marks & Spencer, in Worcester's High Street, has come up with a machine-washable dinner suit. At £149, the suit (pictured) is made from special moisture wicking and breathable fabric and is set to go down a treat over the festive season.

Those on a less tight budget and aiming for the suave and sophisticated look may want to opt for a classic Jasper Conran tonic suit at £350 from Debenham's, also in the High Street. Complete the outfit with a long-sleeved shirt for £40 and lace-up shoes at £60.

At Next, further down the street, there's a select choice of partywear for the fashion-conscious man on a budget.

For just under a cool £50, you can look the part with a dress shirt, bow tie and silk knots (£19.99), combined with black trousers (£30)

Meanwhile, on a slightly more casual note, River Island, again in Worcester's High Street, has taken on a dapper twist for its winter collection.

Sleek single-breasted suits in wool or velvet are teamed with bright knits and polonecks to create a streamlined retro feel. These are teamed with vintage biker jackets and generous belted cardigans or the ultimate fur coat.

The suit, £120, and jumper, £24.99, combination for instance (pictured) weighs in at a respectable £120 and £24.99 respectively.

And Topman, nearby, offers a wide range of black tuxedo suits in super-fine wool and velvet, finished with satin lapels or piping for the party season.

Not far along the road, Burton has gone for an alternative look, combining playboy chic with effortless style for its Platinum Playboy series - one of a number of new collections for winter.

Silver and black are the prominent colours and fabrics are luxurious - with velvet, satin, leather and wool used in suits, leisurewear and knitwear.