Unexpected and much-appreciated, the sudden outbreak of good weather over the weekend led to much exposure of hitherto wisely-concealed Irish flesh. The dangers of sun bathing without taking the necessary precautions hardly need to be reiterated here again; by now, they are as well-known as the risks associated with smoking. But women who do intend to lie on a towel outdoors, or even go for a swim, will want to wear the right clothes.

After lapsing in popularity for a couple of summers, the bikini has made a comeback this year. The shape, however, is much less skimpy than used to be the case. The upper part, for example, has fairly full shoulder straps and substantial coverage of the bust. The pants are bigger too; instead of being cut to sit above the hip, they are squarer, with a slightly retro-feel. Altogether a kinder and more flattering form, the 1997 bikini will also cover more skin, leaving less of it exposed to those harmful rays from the sun.