It can be said that everyone under the age of 40 who wants to keep their head warm is desperately gripping onto their childhood days by channelling a knitted beanie hat. The beanie design has become the surprise new trend for the chilly days. Observe the heads at the school gates, train station platforms or anyone cycling into the city - young and old, women, men and children alike, are sporting these tea-cosy snug hats but with a fresh new twist - a super-fluffy pom-pom sitting perfectly at the top like an angel on a Christmas tree.

My main niggle is that this casual style looks great on grungy urban 20-somethings teamed with over-sized combats, baggy jumpers and Doc Martens. However, for the more grown-up dresser among us - think tailored suits, body-con dresses and anyone with a designer bag hanging from their arm, the beanie just doesn't fit into the same style stakes as the rest of your wardrobe. Yes, it's fine attire for walking the dog and even finer and pretty cute too on the little ones in the family, but the whole matchy-matchy parent and child look has never been a good one, unless of course you're David Beckham who can get away with just about anything in the name of fashion.

Instead, may I suggest a sophisticated fedora hat, a classic trilby or even a head of faux fur? If you're concerned these are suggestions more apt for shul rather than the school run, think again. These designs are stylish without looking too overdone. The trick is to choose felt or fur with minimal detailing making the look fuss-free, perfectly plain and sophisticatedly simple plus a welcome change to your beloved beanie.