'Shorts' – it's the kind of word that has us lapsing into a state of panic and scurrying like the proverbial Groundhog back into our burrows till winter is truly over. Images of Daisy Duke in tight denim numbers and Britney flailing around on stage in sparkly hip skimmers are all that spring to mind at this time of year. That being said – I love a good pair of shorts. I think it's a throwback from my student days when my tomboy tendencies couldn't quite justify airing my limbs in a skirt, so shorts were the next best thing.

Lately I've been striding out in shorts more often, not only to the beach, but  over the past few seasons I've found myself weedling them into my wardrobe as work attire.  So I'm happy to see that the runways were awash with all sorts of shorts for this season making a statement in just about any shape you could care to choose.

To be fair it's only recently that I've become a convert to the idea of winter shorts – I think it's down to the more widely available array of opaque tights in the stores these days – with my pins I would be considered clinically insane to attempt wearing these babies without the transforming effects of some Wolfords with extreme spandex in my fashion armory.

So how do we walk that teeny tiny tightrope of style, let alone common decency, when it comes to this look?

It's essential to consider your shape – steer clear of high waisted numbers if you're waistline challenged – instead try some boy cut shorts from Miu Miu and pair with a boyfriend blazer or empire line tunic to lengthen the silhouette.

If you have a larger rump that doesn't require revealing, opt for darker colors and seek out some shorts that offer draped details – you'd be amazed at the magical powers of a little draping here and ruching there – not only in shorts but pretty much across the fashion spectrum. Wear them with a sharper more tailored silhouette on top to counteract the louche look. Test drive some from Vince or Adam

Try playing with texture and scope out the array of different fabrics around – Marc Jacobs has some sassy satin pairs that would rock an evening look, whilst DVF have some cute stretch crepe satin shorts that could transition from a day at the office to a night out with the girls. Linen is always a winner in the warmer weather, take a peek at See by Chloe for a pair of wool and linen blend shorts, providing you pay no heed to the old fashioned adage of 'no white before Memorial Day' these will be real wardrobe workers.

One thing to consider is your footwear – keep the heels for after dark and stick to flats by day to ooze sensible sophistication – if you are going for a heel, keep it conservative and steer clear of ankle straps that shorten the look of your leg.

The great thing about this trend is you can mix it up to be smart or casual, give it a go and you may even surprise yourself…