Coloured popcorn sprinkled over or around plain icing on a child’s birthday cake looks pretty and doesn’t cost much.

Make time once a year to have your good rings and earrings cleaned and polished at the jewellers. This will make them sparkle like brand new.

Consider packing darker-coloured clothes when travelling. They won’t show dirt easily and this avoids excessive hotel cleaning bills.

Look taller instantly by wearing one colour from head to toe. Choose a close-fitting shape, rather than a full one, and avoid anything like a contrasting belt that breaks the vertical line.

To get the most out of an outfit, choose a simple, classic style in a versatile colour. Just change the shoes and other accessories to take it right through from day to night.

Every woman should own a full-length mirror. You can limit you mistakes by seeing how you really look from top to toe and from front to back.

Sort through and pull out all the things in your jewellery box you no longer wear. Take them to your jeweller to remake into something you will wear.

Hang scarves over a coat-hanger to stop creases. If you fold sway in a drawer, you’ll most likely have to iron them every time you wear them.

Invest in a nude-coloured fabric bra for wearing under tight tops and T-shirts. It is guaranteed to give a smooth, clean look.

Before you go bargain shopping at sale time, first go through your wardrobe and make a list of exactly what you want. This will not only limit your spending, but also save the hassle of trying to return something you didn’t need.