We need some space: why a look which comes with extra baggage allowance is your spring salvation

After all, when there is misogyny to be beaten and 100 years of women’s rights to be protected, the importance of a dress that hugs the hips and demonstrates curves in the right places pales.

That’s not to say, of course, that there’s anything wrong or remotely "unfeminist" about a woman who chooses to fight gender inequality in a gold bandage dress by Hervé Leger - but a flowing cotton smock from Cos might be an easier thing to wear to the Women’s March.

At the heart of this billowing moment for women’s wardrobes is also the idea of protection and the sobering fact that many of us feel more at ease when our shape is not on display.

A few words of warning though: don’t come to this silhouette thinking it’s an easy way to hide all the bits of your body you’re not feeling entirely enamoured with.

While a loose and languid shape can make you feel relaxed, a glance in the mirror may have the opposite effect. Notably because with all big and billowing clothing items comes the risk of looking like the John Peel tent at Worthy Farm.

To master the art, proportion is key. An A-line tabard with no waist is best complemented by a pair of narrow ankle-length trousers, while a billowing dress requires delicate shoes or sandals - not chunky boots.

Colour choice is also key. As a general rule, avoid prints - the desired look is directional Comme des Garçons goddess, not jolly art teacher, which means stark white and black are your friends. A dash of colour is fine too - see Mango’s flowing maxi frock - but be sure to keep the rest of your look fuss-free.

Fabric-wise, cotton and lightweight linens are great. Avoid anything too heavy such as knitted wool or coarse satin - after all, this is a spring trend designed to help you find some breathing space.