Suddenly they're everywhere! Forget dainty bracelets and simple gold chains: this season's must-have accessories are bangles, bangles and more bangles. The rules? One or two is way too few: stack them up as much as you dare (but make sure you can still lift your arm)!

And don't be afraid to mix and match: clashing colours, wild patterns and bold design details were all much in evidence on the catwalks. True to form, Versace opted for glitzy metallics; Chanel went for big, chunky, colourful numbers; and Emilio Pucci showcased an array of textures with details such as embellished jewels and bright threads.

It's a look that celebrities have been quick to adapt - with many of our favourite stars using bangles to show off their individuality. Uber-cool Gwen Stefani complimented her dressed-down style at New York Fashion Week by stacking monochrome bangles on one wrist. Martine McCutcheon heralded her return to the TV spotlight by sporting a super-wide, super-glitzy gold bangle with matching gold hoop earrings during an interview on GMTV.

But bangles aren't just for daytime: Hollywood starlet Kate Hudson wore several bling-bling bangles with her gold sequined dress at the Baftas, for example.

The great thing about this latest trend is that it's very easy - and relatively cheap - to emulate. You can literally pick up armfuls of bangles for less than a tenner in high-street stores such as Accessorize (www.accessorize.co.uk) and Claire's Accessories (www.claires.com).

It's also a brilliant way to give a nod to other current trends, such as ethnic designs, metallics and animal prints. We love the wild and wonderful zebra bangle (£20, www.expensivetaste.co.uk): it looks great stacked up with thinner bangles or two or three mismatched patterns.

If you want something that's more about timeless elegance than up-to-the-minute trailblazers, there are some beautiful pieces around that still lend themselves to the 'stacking' trend. Artistica's silver double heart bangle (£32.50; www.artisticaonline.com) and triple band silver cuff bangle (£29) look gorgeous together - and will work for day and night.

Or for a slightly more indulgent take on the trend, treat yourself to Pearl and Butler's silver bands bangle (£139; www.pearlandbutler.co.uk) - three heavy sterling silver bangles intertwined into one classic bracelet.