The Dr will see you now

STYLE:Are Dr Martens the shoes that never age? Timelessness is something that fashion seems to eschew – in fact, it thrives on the fickle nature of both trends and our own personal desires – but in certain items fashion has its stalwarts.

The Chanel 2.55, for example, or the Hermes Birkin, bags that will hold their own against every new Mulberry design; Levi's 501s; and, of course, Dr Marten's 1460 – the classic boot that was first produced in Wollaston in the UK on April 1st, 1960, hence the name.

For the current season, the brand's ad campaign features supermodel Agyness Deyn and reinterprets classic styles in new, fresh, spring-appropriate fabrics and prints.

The brothel creeper is incorporated into one pair of brogues; another pair takes its cues from Church's classic men's footwear; while the ladies' floral shoes feature Balenciaga-like cut-outs.

Despite these aesthetic changes, the classic characteristics remain: the round toe, the yellow stitching, the AirWair tag and, of course, the air cushion sole.

STAR BUY: This little dress by Dunnes will be the most versatile thing in your wardrobe – and all for €35

Reader’s query

I’m 65 and a size 14. I need clothes for home and holidays – I just had an operation on my knees and I don’t want them to be seen. I normally wear shorts. Beatrice

I see where your difficulties lie – but, honestly, shorts are a little “1980s beach holiday” so you should feel happy about looking further afield. Recent trends – midi skirts, maxi dresses and loose trousers – will suit you to a T and there is plenty to choose from.

This Rocha John Rocha dress (pictured, €76 from Debenhams) is perfect for holidays and will work with a sweater for daytime. It should hit just below the knee, so will be ideal for what you’re trying to conceal.

The rust NW3 by Hobbs dress (€185 from Arnotts) is on the expensive side, but, again, the length is perfect, the fabric will keep you cool if you’re in a hot country, and the shape will be flattering on all shapes. Pair yours with tan sandals on holidays and brown courts or flats for daytime in Ireland.

House of Fraser’s green palazzo pants (€84, from mid March) aren’t subtle, but the acid tone is very now and they’re loose enough to be comfortable and keep your knees covered. Keep an eye out for similar shapes in linen and natural cotton in Penneys, Dunnes and Zara.

Lastly, the maxi dress is not going anywhere fast. This Per Una number from Marks & Spencer (pictured, €109, from March) is a beautiful print and has a really flattering neckline.