The recession will, so we're told, sort the girlies from the women, and the conquering armour will be the suit. Bang on cue, Asda has launched a £20 machine washable version for anyone still game enough to be interviewed for one of those jobs that require women to wear suits. While this is a noble (-ish, what corners were cut to get the price that low?) attempt to service the nation, it must be said that the suit will look good (-ish) only for as long as you can wear it before it needs washing.

You'd probably be better off investing slightly (or quite a lot) more in a decent jacket that you could co-ordinate rather than match with a smart skirt or trousers; one that you will be happy to wear repeatedly and thereby justify a larger outlay, such as this one by Emporio Armani, above.

This is where fashion is truly amazing. Because even though it sometimes seems that most designers' grip on reality is at the Michael Jackson end of the spectrum, almost all included tailoring in their spring collections. We may not see an exodus into the full matchy-matchy trouser and skirt suits, but the tuxedo or boyfriend jacket has already made a big impact on wardrobes. They may be resting now (it's hard to fit a jacket under a coat) but when spring kicks in they'll be out in force, adding a sleek, grown-up touch to everything you put them with. What a change after years of frou-frou. I can't wait.

Times recommends

• The grim reality of life as an air stewardess
• 50 of the world's best design blogs
• Video: Georgia Jagger on fashion and her mum's clothes