FANTASY SHOPPING . . .

Duffel coats conjure up images of Paddington Bear and his marmalade sandwiches, and here the two come together rather well with a duffel by Hermes in a marmalade colour. Duffels were worn by the Royal Navy in the Second World War, and were later adopted by civilians. It is time they made a comeback. Hermes are often thought of in connection with very expensive handbags and horsey things, but they also make rather wonderful clothes, which are also very expensive. What man would not be improved by such a cosy coat? And you would always be sure to find him in the snow. AB

Hermes 100 per cent wool duffel in orange only, pounds 1,270 in sizes 38in- 46in chest. Available from Hermes, 179 Sloane Street, SW1 (0171-823 1014) and 155 New Bond Street, W1 (0171-499 8856).