Every time this particular trend rears it flower-bedecked head, teenagers break out the herbal cigarettes in delight and women over 30 shriek: “Folk off!”

The latest incarnation is “foho” (folk-boho). If you get it right you’ll have a charming, relaxed look to take you right through into autumn. Get it wrong and sneering cries of “Mischa Barton” will chase you down the street.

* Vogue recommends: “Opulent prints, rich colours, fur and fringing.” Just not all once.

* The new folk is cool and edgy with a 70s feel. Follow the example of London It girl Alexa Chung, who toughened up a floral dress with a chunky tan satchel and black ankle boots.

* This is a trend that can suit all ages. Kate Moss looked fabulous the other day in micro shorts, vintage fur and knee-high lace-up fringed suede Minnetonka moccasins. She’s 34. She’s also Kate Moss.

* Nicole Richie can just about pull off a headband. Mischa should pull off her headband - then throttle herself with it.

* Grooming is important. You’re not a hippy, after all. You need expensive hair, impeccable makeup and immaculate designer shoes.

* The two fastest folk updates: buy a floaty paisley top and wear it with denim. Then, once summer’s over, dig out that fur gilet you bought back in 2004.

*See the latest summer 08/09 issue of Fashion Quarterly, on sale Monday November 10, for more on the folk trend

See an online preview of the magazine here