FANTASY SHOPPING . . .

This bikini is is utterly gorgeous. It only just makes fantasy, because I don't think it is so much to pay for something so lovely and classic. Believe it or not it goes up to a size 16. What fantastic-ness. This style is flattering to most figures: the underwired top can make the most of a small bust or display a larger one magnificently, and it is pretty enough (and not too obviously "swimwear") for you to wear it as a bra top. The big knickers will hold in your tummy and emphasise your waist - and can double up as shorts. AB

Underwired bikini, pounds 95, Emporio Armani available in white, pink, black, or green, sizes 8-16 from Emporio Armani, 191 Brompton Road, London SW3 (0171 823 8818) and 64 King Street, Manchester (0161 839 8789); Fenwick, New Bond Street, London W1; Harrods, Knightsbridge, SW1 and Dickens & Jones, Regent St, W1.