Fashion has long been accused of pandering only to the young. Most trends work for the waif but not for the hourglass figure.

But coverage and cut are once again keys. Here are a few of the ways everything old is new again.

* Shoes: Ladylike and elegant are buzz words. Pretty, fabric-covered round-toes battle for shelf space with peep-toes. On the heel front, we all cheer for the ballet flat in metallic or satin.

* Hair: Cleaner shapes and more structured cuts are the way forward, with the return of the bob. Hair is leaving behind unkempt styles. Long hair is tamed and secured with bands, bows, ponytails and buns.

* Accessories: Leather gloves are enjoying a renaissance even to the elbow. Choose a strong colour, such as crimson or brilliant blue, to add drama to tweed or wool tailoring. Wrap your waist with a belt and top your head with a cloche or jaunty beret. And don't forget a large quilted bag.

* Long skirts: Skirts to just below the knee or mid-calf can be dressed up with heels and pretty blouses or dressed down with knits and boots.

* Dresses: The exaggerated femininity of earlier decades is found in the dress. The midi looks set to be the hem of the moment with a great deal of attention on the shoulder.

Kellie Ann Zupet reports on fashion for The Hamilton Spectator. gostyle@thespec.com