It’s the surprise colour for autumn that has created a (candyfloss light) style stampede. Pastel pink is ’the’ must-have hue on every fashion editor’s It List.

Put aside Barbie doll connotations and give pink the colour credibility it’s due.

“Pink brings out the femininity in every woman,” says Veronique Henderson, creative director at Colour Me Beautiful. “It can be grown up and sexy, you just need to know how to wear it.”

Design houses including Lanvin, Dior, Celine and Miu Miu all paraded blush hues on the international catwalks, breaking away from the traditional black, navy and grey winter palette.

It’s official, this season, pink is the new black.

SUGAR COATED

Brighten up the gloomy days of winter with a pink coat for an instant rosy glow.

“Pink is huge for outerwear this season and it will certainly brighten up winter days, but you do need the personality to wear it,” Henderson warns.

“Partner pink coats over greys, browns and blacks for an instant burst of femininity.”

For the coolest silhouette, balance out the prettiness of the pink with an androgynous oversized shape.

PRETTY IN PINK

Bubblegum pinks are the standout tones for autumn and can look elegant and grown-up for evening or officewear.

“Wearing a pink outfit might not be your most powerful look, however, if you’re wearing a charcoal business suit, teaming it with a blush pink top, worn as an accent, will give you an air of authority,” Henderson advises.

Look for unexpected fabrics and textures to create interest in your outfit, like sequins and faux fur - this contrast will work especially well if you’re planning a top-to-toe pink look. Think fluffy pink angora jumper teamed with a vinyl pink pencil skirt.

Don’t forget you can introduce prints to your pinks too. A traditional tartan check suddenly looks fresh and contemporary for winter set against an icy pastel pink.

FIERCE FUCHSIA

Pink doesn’t have to mean uber-pretty and girly.

If you want a stronger look, steer clear of dusty tones and pick out the punchier pinks like fuchsia, neon and raspberry.

These tones are the perfect tag team with black and grey, especially if you can’t get your head around the idea of wearing pastels in winter.

If bright pinks can’t persuade you to part company with your dark wardrobe, punctuate your outfit instead.

“You may prefer to include pink in your wardrobe through your accessories, so try a handbag, heels or scarf as the most accessible way to work the colour,” Henderson suggests.

You can still stay on the rebellious side of pink with hardware details, like studs, to add an edge.

FIND YOUR PERFECT PINK

From powdery pale to punchier neons, pink is more versatile than you think. Fill in Colour Me Beautiful’s colouring questionnaire (www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk/colouring-questionnaire) to find out your natural dominant colouring – the same principles apply regardless of whether your skin tone is fair or dark – then follow this guide to determine your most flattering shade:

LIGHT: Pastel pink coats were made for you.

DEEP: Blush pink works for both warm and cool skin tones. Deeps with cool skin tones can wear bold cyclamen or fuchsia.

COOL: Pink is a wow shade for you, so enjoy wearing hot pink, cyclamen and fuchsia. If you like softer shades, choose candy or blush pink.

WARM: As pink is a cool shade, you are best to avoid wearing it, especially close to the face. Go for apricot instead.

CLEAR: As with Deeps, blush pink works for both cool and warm tones and is strong enough to complement your colouring.

If your skin tones are cool, then choose the bold hues like fuchsia and hot pink.

SOFT: Candy is just right for you, not too pale and not too bold. Cool skin tones can take shades in icy or powder pink.