I suspect there may be no hope, but 2013 is the year my clothes improve

[Battlefront]

I'm not sure exactly when or how it happened, but over the last 10 years I seem to have become that mum in the fleece, except on very special occasions, when I'm told I brush up OK

I've made a bit of a start and got a couple of good casual dresses to wear with boots, but I haven't replaced the dreaded fleeces and I do need something for warmth.

I like this but it's Per Una and although it gets very good reviews they're all from people 55+ (I'm 42) I like it because it will be easy to wear, comfortable, go with and brighten up almost any plain colour, but can you do better for me?

Sorry, not keen on that cardigan. I think it looks cheap and would be ageing on you.

Self-coloured knitwear, as high quality as possible is the way to go. Uniqlo cashmere, Jigsaw, Brora.

Add colour and pattern with a lovely scarf .

Step away from the Una! It's just an alternate version of "mum in fleece". As well Novel's suggestions (yay to Uniqlo cashmere), check out the sales at Whistles and Mint Velvet. I broke free from fleece in 2012 and I have never felt (and looked) better! Enjoy the new you!!

Third vote for Uniqlo cashmere - soft, warm and machine washable. I have quite a few and love them. Per Una is never going to help anyone look younger.

I like it... but it's the sort of thing that I've banned myself from buying in order to make my wardrop better!

I like Celtic Sheepskin, and The White Company, for warm knitwear. I am 43 and am not mumsy or frumpy - I love clothes, if that's of any relevance. Anyway who cares about looking younger? Looking good is far more important!