Embrace spring by going nude is the message from fashion writer Lisa Haynes, but that doesn’t mean running around in your birthday suit. It’s simply a matter of adopting the new trend for skin-toned clothing . . .

The spring/summer catwalks were awash with flesh-toned ensembles and second skin dresses, which means that “nude” clothing is officially one of this season’s biggest trends.

If you’re the colour-shy type and usually live in black during the winter months, this new nude trend is your refreshing spring tonic. Think pale and interesting hues of baby pinks, soft peaches, and creamy caramels.

Not only is the nude look versatile, but everybody already has some neutrals lying around in their wardrobe that can easily be recycled into a new look for a fashion-forward summer.

So put skin tone chic on your fashion agenda and give a nod to the nudes.

ROMANTIC – As seen at: John Rocha, Bottega Veneta, Bora Aksu.

Not one for the tomboys, this season’s look of sheer romanticism went hand in hand with nude tones. To work this uber-feminine style of nude, think of vintage pieces that look washed-out and worn.

Because the colour palette is so simple, you can go to town on romantic detailing like extravagant ruffles, tiers, corsetry and pleats.

Check out the red carpet for inspiration – Penelope Cruz, Thandie Newton and Leona Lewis have all recently been flaunting nude tone gowns to fall in love with.

TRY – ASOS pale pink petal dress, £85; Cacharel nude silk beaded dress, £325 at House of Fraser; Dorothy Perkins pink pleat detail dress, £35; J by Jasper Conran nude peep-toe courts, £32 at Debenhams.

SEXY – As seen at: Marios Schwab, Herve Leger, 3.1 Philip Lim.

Nude tones took on a risque new dimension on the S/S catwalks, with underwear as outerwear and nude dresses so tight you had to blink to check if the models were actually wearing clothing.

Ignore feminine floaty fabrics for this look. Just think of your favourite body-hugging LBD and swap it for a neutral tone. One-shoulder styles and shorter hemlines will boost the sex appeal.

TRY – River Island neutral strapless bustier dress, £49.99; Miss Selfridge nude black neck detail top, £20; Topshop nude panelled bodycon skirt, £28; Steve Madden taupe patent T-bar platform, £80 at Oli.

STREET – As seen at: Stella McCartney, Preen, Hermes.

The new nudes don’t have to be reserved for romantic or sexy eveningwear this season.

Neutral colours came into play on the catwalks in daywear too, with boxy blazers, floaty trousers and all-in-one jumpsuits – perfect for packing in the holiday suitcase.

Either opt for one statement piece like a jacket à la Stella McCartney or layer multiple neutral pieces in different tones, as seen at Hermes.

TRY – Principles neutral leather biker jacket, £175; Republic bib front peach sleeveless shirt, £19.99; Marks and Spencer puff sleeve belted mac, £45.

So how best to go nude? It’s not as scary as it sounds! Embrace fashion’s softer side with this season’s must-have neutrals. Here are our top nude tips:

Not all neutrals will suit everyone. Find the tone that best suits your skin, whether it’s peachy blush or crème caramel. Paler skins suit darker neutrals in cinnamon and coffee, while darker complexions can pull off the buttery colours.

What you wear underneath is key to carrying off the look. Steer clear of black, white or coloured underwear and invest in flesh tones.

Break up a top-to-toe nude look with your make-up. Both Nina Ricci and Betty Jackson contrasted their nude catwalk creations with bold red lips.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match neutrals. Chloe mixed a top, skirt and jacket in three clashing shades of peachy nudes.

Sadly ladies, this is one occasion where black tights just won’t cut it. Work this spring look with a hint of fake tan.