Jeans, trainers and mini skirts were top of his No, No, No list. I suggested that perhaps he would like women over forty to wear shrouds in neutral colours (nothing patterned , sequinned or bright) so they are grave-ready once they are into their fourth decade..

There’s been a lot of rubbishing women in the popular press this week. The Aintree laydees were held up as an example of tanned and technicoloured trash because they had dressed up, made up and backcombed for a day at the races. I admit I didn’t covet their dresses, heels or handbangs but I did admire their cheerfulness and their confidence.

Joan Collins has written this week that she is appalled that the Ritz are allowing their clientele to wear denim.  ”Denim is MacDonalds, not The Ritz” snooted Ms Collins who is a self appointed style guru. She believes women shouldn’t wear jeans or fleeces. If I was forced to classify her look I would describe it as ‘dug up’. It would be difficult to emulate her personal style even if you wanted to as Ms Collins has already bought up all the costume jewellery, pancake foundation and lip liner in the Western hemisphere.

Wear whatever you want at whatever age. Choose purple, eat a peach,  but please remember my dear late mother’s advice and  keep your chest warm.