I t sounds like a fairytale, but everyone knows that Russia is a country with real winters. Snowball fights, snowmen, weekend morning walks in the forest, skiing and skating are all very well, but how idyllic is it in the middle of January?

What should you do when winter is upon you and summer is still a long way off? Of course, there are many indoor activities for surviving the winter months, but how does one keep from freezing outdoors? Valenki and tulup may be the traditional national attire, but there are sure to attract some strange looks.

I would therefore recommend the wonderful overcoats widely available in Moscow shops. This season offers a great choice, including thin coats that come with fur inserts, fur coats or leather coats.

All the designers have presented a diverse selection of overcoats in their collections this season. The whole concept of the down coat has changed a lot. It used to be a sporty, retro-chic item that people preferred to wear with jeans. This season gives another meaning to it, women can wear it with a stylish skirt or smart trousers. These coats are all spacious, while the shapes may differ. The preferred shapes for this season are the cocoon  and tapering trapeze A-lines. These coats may be cropped or knee-length. You cannot help but wonder about the practicality of the shorter variants; you would need long gloves as well to keep both warm and fashionable. Colors range from subdued to flashy.

As we settle in for the big chill of winter, the need for really warm but practical clothes is a must in Russia. So this brings us to the subject of Russia's well known fur coats. Designers' ideas vary and they present coats of different lengths, colors and types of fur in large, as well as figure-hugging shapes. Big collars seem to be in vogue, as are comfortable hoods that save you from searching for those lost hats and scarves. These are particularly appropriate for New Year - don't you just feel like Snegurochka?

Fur is so popular that there is even a fur horoscope. Aries are supposed to wear short mink jackets, Taurus - light tapering trapeze-shaped beaver coats, Gemini should opt for colorful rabbit coats. For Scorpios, the prime choice is either a short down jacket or a long fur coat with a lynx collar.

As for leather, designers offer a wide selection of coats and cloaks in this material. It is even possible to find some with leather inserts. Just remember that everything should be worn in moderation - don't get too carried away.

For fur lovers, the new "Fur Luxury Gallery"  on November 22 held a special boutique in the Arbat casino. This shop sells exclusive fur clothes, including the fashion label German Shalumov Fur Luxury. The style is masculine, creating voluminous silhouettes that richly envelop the female form. They use rare materials, such as taffeta, gold and brocade, which come in warm, autumnal colours.

This season focuses on calm and subdued shades of brown and grey, but they must have small details of interest to attract the attention of the buyers. This may be shimmery silver or green. In addition to black, more vivid colors on display include red, claret and purple.

The main trends of the upcoming season are based on glamour, shine, embellishment and bold bright colours. Metal accessories and retro style details also add interest.

So dress up warmly and follow your taste. Then there is a good chance you can enjoy the Russian winter with all of its enthralling amusements. 

Taken from http://mnweekly.ru/local/20071129/55293671.html