7 AUGUST 2004, Page 55

Q. My wallet does not match my aspirations, but where

clothing is concerned I am quite good at finding substitutes. What should I say when, at a party, people admire, for example, my Trada' shirt, which in reality comes from Zara? Should tell them they are mistaken, thus making them feel foolish, or should I let them think I can afford Prada (which might be good for my professional image)? It seems dishonest to do the latter.

M.W., London SW3 A. There should be no need for you to say anything at all, Perhaps you have not noticed, but people very rarely listen these days at parties. They are too busy queuing to make their own next fatuous comment. Just look vague for a couple of seconds and the empty silence will soon be filled by more meaningless prattle.