COSMETIC CRAVING

THE classic 4711 Eau De Cologne (£6.10 for 25ml, victoriahealth. com), with citrus in its top, lavender, rosemary and rose at its heart and a hint of musk in the base, is bracingly refreshing yet coolly calming.

An 18th-century wonder, it was adored by Napoleon, who doused himself in a flacon a day and sucked sugar cubes dipped in it to sharpen his wits. Rumours abound as to its origins — all of them romantic — including that it was created by the monks of Florence’s Santa Maria Novella.

Impeccably elegant, glorious in the heat, the citronella in its recipe even deters mosquitoes. This 25ml ‘watch’ bottle (pictured) slips into a pocket or bag and is a glorious summer bargain.