A few weeks ago I went to what I imagine is five times the fun of any Avon party. I was invited to an intimate show of the spring/summer lingerie, swimwear and beach accessory lines at True Love in Barnes.

True Love is small but mighty in its offer. Heidi, Stella, Elle and Melissa are all there, to name-drop a few, along with a dash of La Perla (why ever not?), the beautiful Chantelle Thomas and the fantastic Italian Cossabella (the only time you’ll ever look back after buying these panties is to admire your rear in the mirror). The proprietor, Marie Truelove is an inspiration once a high powered city professional she jacked it in to follow her passion- and what a result this passion has reaped.

The team are incredible there, experts in their craft, there is even one lady who can eye-ball you and get your exact size, no tape involved, well unless faced with a monstrosity from Primark with about two inches of extra padding but that would throw anyone off. Myself and my three companions for the evening spent well, perhaps helped along by the champagne rocket fuel and the temptation of watching the designs parade past us- an intimate affair where our wise guru Marie guided us through the new shapes and colours and what would suit what shapes, always something for everyone.

The catwalk-light show was clever in itself- using some sort of hybrid of model and real woman, these ladies were beautiful and thin but by no means perfect, hating them would have made it difficult to buy- a problem we did not have.

I left lighter of pocket but lighter of heart, as shallow as a shopping spree can seem there is nothing better, in my opinion, than spending your money on those things that sit closest to your skin… and if they’re pretty too and you need to buy the whole range then who am I to say no.

Best item on display: a tough call between a La Perla Candy Striped Nightshirt and a Melissa Odabash one piece in taupe snake print

Best overheard comment: “No I don’t wear white; not since my confirmation 19 years ago.”

Visit the True Love Website or check out their Facebook page