The fashion world is going big on small details this autumn

Two distinct trends emerged on the autumn catwalks: stark simplicity and rich embellishment. For those who want to dress it up, here are the latter's four key looks. Just don't try them all at the same time...

Beading

Seen at: Ralph Lauren, Asprey

Whether delicately decorative, as in the case of Mango's folkloric take on the LBD (£100, www.mango.co.uk), or dramatically dense, such as Principle's high-shine metallic top (£79, www.principles.co.uk), beading gives simple garments a luxurious touch of craftsmanship. On Temperley's flattering frock, they accentuate and define the shoulders and waist (£620, www.netaporter.com). As an alternative to the full-on glitz of sequins, beading adds a more vintage feel, particularly to accessories such as Accessorize's classic, goes-with-everything clutch (£30, www.accessorize.co.uk). Just beware those loose threads!

Embroidery

Seen at: Gucci, Luella, Louise Gray

Designers raided their sewing boxes this autumn, adorning their creations with layers of embroidery for a look that is part arts-and-crafts, part Russian opulence. Folky styles such as Principle's tunic (£39, www.principles.co.uk) and H&M's floral scarf (£9.99, www.hm.com) will look luxuriously bohemian thrown together with a mix of fabrics. On the other hand, French Connection's heavily embellished shift needs no accessorising (£130, www.frenchconnection.com). For a double trend hit, invest in Whistle's pretty blouse that features an embroidered, trompe l'oeil ruffle (£80, www.whistles.co.uk).

Ruffles

Seen at: Giambattista Valli, Valentino, D&G

Ruffles made their debut on the summer catwalks, so if you've bought into this trend already you can congratulate yourself on being ahead of the game. This season, few garments escape the addition of the flounce or two – from evening dresses replete with textural rosette-style ruffles, such as Monsoon's structured black number (£180, www. monsoon.co.uk), to sexy secretary-style sheer blouses from New Look (£16, www.newlook.co.uk). If you want something low-key but interesting, opt for a simple, flat ruffle in the style of Next's cream silk top (£28, www.next.co.uk).or Modalu's pleasingly tactile shoulder bag that is as pretty as it is practical (£199, www.modalu.com).

Sequins

Seen at: Balmain, Giles, Christian Dior

Spangles aren't just for showgirls this autumn. While they add a healthy dose of old-fashioned glitz to a black dress such as Warehouse's slinky ruched number (£85, www.warehouse.co.uk), they also look playful on daytime items such as Topshop's sweet multi-coloured jumper (£55, www.topshop.co.uk). Added to unexpected fabrics and styles, they give garments versatility, allowing them to double as glossy daywear and laid-back evening attire, as with Jigsaw's chunky-knit cardigan (£250, www.jigsaw-online.com). If you're a little sparkle-shy, play it safe with accessories such as Primark's beret (£5, www.primark.co.uk).