LAST month, London Fashion Week flooded the media with images of the bold and the bizarre.

Well, call me old fashioned, but even in my hey-day when I could be seen strolling down London's King's Road wearing what my mother called a belt and I called a skirt, I don't think I'd have dared reveal as much as the designers did with their models.

OK, so we are told it's all for show, for capturing the attention of the press! Well, here's one fashion writer who would love to be able to see some really wearable collections on the catwalk.

Times they are 'a changing', and women in their 40s, 50s and 60s no longer look their age.

Whereas there used to be a certain stage in a woman's life when she would suddenly turn into her mother, now it's harder than ever to tell a woman's true age.

We expect more from our wardrobe than ever before, still wanting to be feminine and fun, but aware of the years (and fashions) gone by and not wanting to dress too young.

How lovely it would be to see some collections and ideas put together by designers that give more mature women, who are after all more able to afford them, the chance to enjoy the new fashion season here in the UK.

There are more ' high street' designers coming through with separates for the more classic look, with an emphasis on style and tailoring.

One of my favourites is Olsen (37-53 Finkle Street, Kendal) which even uses 30-something models for its advertising.

Olsen, in conjunction with Good Housekeeping magazine, is running the "search for the three real Olsen women" competition this month.

It is looking for three best friends or workmates who feel they could represent the Olsen women of today.

The prize includes a wardrobe of clothes from its collection worth £2,500, with a complete make-over by the Good Housekeeping team.

Pick up your entry form at any of its stores or concessions (closing date October 31).

Caroline Blair (Elephant Yard, Kendal) is going from strength to strength with another fabulous selection of beautifully tailored designs.

I love the way she displays the clothes in wonderful capsules of co-ordinating colour and style making it easy to pull pieces to try on that you know will work together.

Her store certainly has a feel of quality about it - how lovely to be left alone to browse, not to be 'pounced on' or pushed towards the wrong outfit.

The changing rooms are cool enough to feel comfortable and there's someone on hand to change sizes etc.

without having to go back out yourself.

I would far rather save my money to buy one well-fitting, long-lasting piece of clothing that is individual and has ' feel good' factor than several 'almost rights' that lose it in the wash.

Here is a store I can go to, to do just that.