Six of the best summer glasses

1John Jenkins, ruby wine goblet, pounds 14.95, emerald and blue glasses pounds 12.50 Richly coloured with transparent stems, the fragility and simple lines of these make them look more expensive than they really are. So good for wedding presents, and picky dinner guests. From Harrods, Knightsbridge, London SW1.

2 Carlo Moretti, pounds 115 Frankly, these would be a huge liability. You'd have nightmares about them toppling slowly off a shelf or rattling in the dishwasher. They are rather beautiful though, and you could always just leave them safely locked up in the display cabinet. From Liberty, Regent Street, London W1 (0171-734 1234).

3 Byzantium, wine glass pounds 13.75, tumbler pounds 8.75 and champagne flute pounds 13.75 Very sleek, with a fashionable metallic sheen to their stems. The iceball cocktail stirrers, pounds 14.95, can be put in the freezer for that extra chill. From The General Trading Company, 144 Sloane Street, London SW1. Enquiries 0171-730 0411.

4 V&A, pounds 34 Stylish chrome-based glasses with a futuristic feel. The crackle effect makes them look wonderfully chilly. Just fill with ice and lemonade. From the Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7. Also available by mail-order: 0171-938 8438.

5 Selfridges, tall blue/green pounds 4.75, small blue/green pounds 3.99, orange/yellow pounds 4.25 Frosted effect two-tone glasses that cry out for a summery fruit cocktail. The garish colours make them better for a pre- dinner Pimms or punch than as part of the table layout. From a selection at Selfridges, Oxford Street, London W1 (0171-629 1234)

6 Art De Trois, champagne glass pounds 19.50, brandy glass pounds 18 These Art-Deco inspired glasses certainly are wild, not to say vulgar. But they're cheaper than they look, and your guests will never have seen anything like it. From a selection at Dizar, 220 West End Lane, West Hampstead, London NW6 (0171- 435 623)