Ultra-flattering and always elegant, black makes a strong return this winter as the in vogue favourite of high street designers, says Francine Miller.

How often have we heard those words, "the new black", at the dawn of each new fashion season? From brown and grey to maroon and purple, fashionistas have sought to topple black from its supreme position as the ultimate in chic.

But black refuses to budge from that fashion pedestal. It is the colour we so often return to and, for this season at least, black is well and truly back in vogue.

The safest of all colours, black is slimming, ultra-flattering and always looks elegant. Its timeless appeal means you can wear it anywhere at any time, and it won't look dated.

Putting together a black outfit is not the hardest of tasks, but remember not to go for a head to toe ensemble, without breaking it up here and there with some embellishments and accessories. After all, you want to look sleek and chic, not convey the doom and gloom of winter.

For a dramatic twist, choose sequins and beads, or bold metallic jewellery for your look.

A key point to remember about the black look is that texture and shape really come into play to keep the style varied and interesting.

Matte jumpers work well against shiny leather or shimmery silks and satins, or floaty cotton. To soften the look, opt for a tweed weave or lace, to let the skin peek through.

Black lace is sexy yet demure this season, and is a great alternative if you're not keen on a full-on solid block of black. Warehouse's lace and pintuck babydoll top, £40, and Next's lace shirt, £29.99, are ideal for wearing to the office.

But if you think black lace is more for the bedroom than in a restaurant, try Dorothy Perkins' beaded camisole, £25, or Principles' satin crochet trim camisole, £32.

Also, try to play around with shapes mix up bold, structural shapes like skinny trousers and pencil skirts with puffed sleeved tops and voluminous Victorian blouses. Pair Kookai's Gothic lace babydoll top, £55, with Kookai's full creased skirt, £80, or Miss Selfridge's velvet walking shorts, £30.

Skinny black trousers, like Oasis' version, £40, are perfect with a floaty top like GS by Gharani Strok's black lace trim camisole, £30, at Debenhams.

For a fabulous evening gown this season, try Oasis' rose trellis dress, £150.

To bring a little more colour, red, purple and berry tones look stunning teamed up with black, especially on darker-haired women.

If you just want a touch of black, try a jacket like Gap's velvet Romantic blazer, £55.

Alternatively, make sure black stays on your bottom half only, by wearing Wallis' cropped trousers, £35, Dorothy Perkins' cuff crop trousers, £25, or a striking skirt, like Oasis' Rose Trellis skirt, £90.

Lastly, remember that too much black can wash out lighter skins and be less flattering on darker tones.

Try a classic black and white combination, or this season, get a beatnik cool edge with stripes. Choose Marks & Spencer's V-neck version, £29.50, or Dorothy Perkins' V-neck chunky jumper, £25.