The £35 Marks & Spencer velvet midi skirt you NEED for Christmas party season – and it comes in seven colours

IT'S Friday - and that means it's time to talk all things fashion.

This week, Fabulous' Cigdem Tanrioglu gives us her insight on SS19, Rita Ora's wild wardrobe and this season's luxe velvet trend.

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MY SO-CALLED FASHION LIFE

Now, you may only just be thinking about buying your new winter jacket or hunting for a pair of boots that'll see you through the season - but the fashion world is already going full steam ahead into spring/summer 2019.

This week I got to pop into the River Island press office to check out what’s going to be hitting their stores next year.

Let’s just say I cannot wait for the winter to be over so I can get some of these new trends into my wardrobe.

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Retro 80s styles and neon brights are set to be huge - think polka dots, shoulder pads and zesty lime blazers. What’s not to love?!

And if you thought this season was about logo-mania, just wait until the spring when brands will take on Gucci and Fendi styles without the major price tag.

I’m currently counting down to my next holiday and dreaming of hitting a sunny beach, so you can imagine what happened when I got to see some of the amazing sandals and swimwear that are due in store next year.

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CAN WE JUST TALK ABOUT - Rita Ora's awful outfits

Usually I’m all about girl power and wouldn’t dream of slating another woman’s outfit but a line has had to be drawn when it comes to Rita Ora’s awful style.

This week the singer has been out and about promoting her new album and honestly I think she’s made her way to the red carpet via a bird's nest.

Last week she took over the stage at Children In Need with a dress that was part sheer bodice from Ann Summers and part swan. I don’t think the kids were appreciating it.

And then at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards she wore a frock that left her looking like an uncomfortable Cruella de Vil.

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Don’t get me started on the awful matching dress and boots combo at the E! People’s Choice Awards.

Co-ords are cool, but matching your boots is not.

I mean, feathers make a nice change from Rita’s usual half-naked racy looks but seriously I feel like the girl can just never get it right.

Sorry Rita!

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#TRENDING - Velvet

It’s official - festive season is upon us and I for one cannot be happier.

As a self-proclaimed magpie, getting dressed up in sequins is just about my favourite thing to do.

But this year I’m stepping away from the sparkles and going for something a little more luxurious.

Plush velvet is such an easy way to make your outfit look party-ready and you can easily mix it into your everyday wardrobe.

Plus, these super soft textures usually come in gorgeous jewel tones which will have me ready to hit the bar in seconds.

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• Velvet embellished star wrap blouse, £55.20 from Topshop -

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• Navy keyhole velvet jumpsuit, £36 from Miss Selfridge -

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• Velvet pleated midi skirt, £35 from Marks & Spencer -

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• Yasmita velvet dress, £74.25 from Monsoon -

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• Velvet blazer, £99.99 from Zara -

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• Velvet trousers, £69.99 from Zara -

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