Tartan ruled the fall runways but gingham, a print from the same family, is taking the lead this spring. These cross-hatched lines are more town than country. They have been updated; its scale has been blown up, yielding a fresh, modern vibe at Jacob, used as BCBG lining for a kimono-style evening jacket at Oscar de la Renta or a street raincoat at Jocob, on a belted top and matching head wrap at Derek Lam and, on the most romantic iteration, a cropped blouse at Delpozo.

From left to right, Jacob, Oscar de la Renta, Jacob

Polka dots are a trend that seem to pop up every few seasons - but the trick is in keeping that circle play fresh. This season, the trick is in keeping that circle play fresh by opting for a stylish graphic interpretation of the polka dot (Jacob), or playing up the retro side of this iconic print for an ultra-feminine look - black and white by Dolce & Gabbana, Jacob and Michael Kors or red and black by Moschino, Retro also at Burberry Prorsum, Anthony Vaccarello and Chloé.

From left to right, Jacob, Jacob, Moschino

A rainbow of pastel shades reigned throughout the collections and inject a touch of softness to this spring's colour palette. On the runway, Balmain, Isabel Marant, Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Burberry Prorsum, Giorgio Armani and Jacob flirt with sherbert inspiration. Lavender blue and powder pink too sweet for you? Confidently inject these pretty hues with sleek workwear basics to create a sense of newness.

From left to right, Jacob, Dolce & Gabbana, Jacob