Going soft: the finest of cashmere, the merest hint of silk -

John Davidson considers

the allure of feel-good fibres

IF THIS was a fair country, the Government would be issuing every adult woman with a pastel-hued cashmere sweater this month. Overnight, national morale would be lifted. Confidence and productivity would soar. And the Prime Minister's popularity would reach even dizzier heights.

There would, you see, be some sound material substance to the mythical feel-good factor. For cashmere remains the king of touchy-feely fibres. And, in addition to its inherent luxury and gloriously tactile properties, it makes sound sense as a fashion choice for all the vagaries of our late spring weather.

Yarns in fine-gauge cashmere (and blends of cashmere with silk) make perfect choices for this season's dainty camisoles, sleeveless shell tops and lady-like little cardigans. But if the Government refuses to see sense - and cashmere in even its most moderately priced manifestations remains beyond your budget - opt for the distinctive yet subtle sheen of a viscose yarn.

Partnered with a pretty beaded skirt, such pretty knits articulate a key fashion idea of the moment: night-for-day dressing.

For, just as the fashion seasons seem to be morphing strangely together (remember last winter's plethora of sleeveless dresses?) the distinction is waning between what may be worn before and after dark. Designers are insisting that women should be free to wear pretty, ultra-feminine clothes - wherever they are going, and whatever the hour.

But will such alluring examples of low-key glamour really surface in the workplace? Only, please, if your job involves presenting The Big Breakfast.