One season it’s fur, the next it’s the size zero. Apparently the press have picked up on Hilary Riva’s, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, latest statement which advised catwalk designers to select models that look “healthy” and the right side of sixteen. But why, demanded the press, was a ban on the super-skinny not put in place? For reasons of discrimination for one, the fashion industry is tough enough without the possible threat of legal action lurking in the background.

 While the issue obviously needs to be considered one cannot help but think the debate has been hyped up to high heaven. Models, after all, have been on the rather skinny side since Twiggy emerged in the 1960s. Enough on that already.

 Kicking off the bi-annual proceedings was TopShop with its Autumn/Winter Unique collection, now a regular on the London Fashion Week schedule. Think what you will of a high street chain showing its wares on the catwalk but as major funders of the New Generation sponsorship scheme who’s complaining. Echoing the blossoming trends that emerged from New York last week - think grown-up chic with wide-leg palazzo pants, lantern sleeves blouses, heavy knits and simple dresses nipped in at the waist with huge silver disc belts. In a sombre colour palette of black, burgundy, teal, slate and moss with the odd splash of Art Deco inspired prints the collection was perfectly wearable but somewhat lacking in the wow factor. No Kate Moss in the front row this time around, word is at TopShop HQ that her TS range is shaping up rather nicely.

 Sunday was not originally planned as opening day at Fashion Week HQ, otherwise known as the tents at the Natural History Museum, but such a tight schedule demanded some ease. Doing the honours was Paul Costelloe with a collection that paid homage to Jackie O, while Ben de Lisi added a dose of his red carpet glamour both on the catwalk and at the Baftas thanks to Kate Winslet, who was nominated for the Best Actress award.

By JoJo Iles