Vanessa Bruno predates all those French names in our high street - she practically invented that urbane Gallic schoolgirl look we all hanker after so much in our everyday.

For autumn, her look was part Piscine, part Parisienne polar expedition, channelling that seductive gamine youthful cool she does so well into military-style outerwear - boiled wool parkas in navy and khaki green, sheer and delicate layered, almost iridescent bomber jackets, and a healthy dose of polo-necked knitwear.

But there were also the ingenue extras, of course - winter isn't just about staying warm. Sequin mini-dresses, mini aprons and wrap skirts edged with appliqué and lace were fresh in white scalloped wool, and even scrappy sundresses competed the La Rochelle goes luxe aesthetic.