I HAVE to say this winter's 80s fashion revival had me reaching for the sick bowl.

There have been some odd comebacks over the years, but never in my life has entering so-called trend-setting outlets filled me with such dread.

Not only was the fashion gaudy and, frankly, unattractive the first time round, last season's offerings managed to be even more repulsive (what happened to the beauty of hindsight?)

But thank the Lord, the renaissance is apparently over and its good to see shoppers back on the street with an idiom of taste.

According to the fashion gurus, electric blue leg warmers, combats and tweed are all officially out while green, metallic shimmer and snakeprint are slithering into the limelight.

"Get rid of combats and anything else that is military-inspired," said Elle's fashion assistant, Vickie Brough.

"They are really finished now.

"Also, discard anything that is 80s, like royal blue and neon pink leggings and batwing tops. But keep bright colours because they are very big for next season, especially tropical, brightly coloured shoes."

So, what are the must haves?

"There's loads of things to invest in, like a good quality trench coat," said Brough. "If you pick the right one, it will take you all through summer.

"Don't be afraid to spend more - buy the most expensive that you can afford, and choose neutral black or beige."

Elle Macpherson, Stella McCartney and Madonna all chose trenches in classic black.

For timeless classics, head to Aquascutum, Burberry and Pringle, although Esprit has great designs at high street prices.

Skinny jeans are also out.

"Swap your skinny-thin jeans for faded, wider-legged ones in a 70s style," said Brough. Make sure they're slim at the hips, and get wider at the bottom."

Levi's 557 Square Fit (£55 - call 020 7292 2500 or visit www.levi.com) sit low on the hips and give an awesome shape while Miss Sixty's range, Tommy, has a variety of wide-legged jeans (from £60 - call 0870 751 6040).

Kylie Minogue, Anna Kournikova and Emma Thompson unwittingly set a new trend when they wore green dresses at various events during the winter.

"Green is the new hot colour for spring/summer, so buy anything green. Emerald green will be the dominant hue, but other shades of green will also be popular."

If taking up residency in the land of Oz doesn't float your boat, however, don't despair.

"There is a really big metallic theme this season - so I'd buy anything that is sparkly, shimmery or sequinned in pale pink or flesh hues, preferably in satin or chiffon," said Brough.

"Metallic leather is still popular, especially on bags and boots. If you can't bear to spend a lot of money on these trends, just buy some cheap fashion pieces that will bring your wardrobe bang up to date - without breaking the bank."

As can be seen everywhere, cowboy-esque boots are back en vogue, a trend which Victoria Beckham has already taken to.

Mad, tropical, Pucci-like prints are also in.

Office's Josie green mock-snakeprint platform sandals cost £79.99 on 08450 580 777 or at www.officeholdings.co.uk while Faith Crilly's peep-toed heels with a circular print are £50 from www.faith.co.uk

Kate Kuba also has some colourful offerings. Their platform sandal (£69 - call 0207 272 7750) is available in canary yellow and tropical fuchsia.

Brough's words of wisdom are thus.

"Keep an eye out for sexy shoes with a platform in the front and a chunky heel, snakeskin and cashmere.

"Buy things that you love. Then you know that you will always wear it, whether it's in fashion or not."