Coats of Arms are personal to the holder. (Beware firms that offer to research ‘your’ family coat of arms!) The fleur de lys represents Lincolnshire, the church spire represents Louth. As for a fashion accessory, my friends will tell you that my name and the word fashion are not usually to be found in the same sentence. I have not had the Coat of Arms incorporated into any of my fashion accessories, but I have put it to practical use in having it reproduced as a colour postcard.

Is there a pecking order for the State Opening of Parliament? Not really. There is one front bench that has reserved seats for party leaders, chief whips, former prime ministers and the like, but otherwise peers can sit where they choose. It is a case of first come first served. I turn up early to get my usual spot. The chamber itself is reconfigured for State Opening: there is a section for the diplomat corps, for peeresses, and for senior judges – who sit at the front in their judicial robes and are not to be confused with the law lords, who sit with other peers and wear their ermine robes.

It is rather splendid, and I do like the bee!

Most men have used heraldry in an everyday fashion accessory, the striped necktie. The striping is called a bend and depending where you live it can reveal who you are.

For instance an American:

http://www.justice.gov.uk/about/straw.htm

Will have the bend running from upper left to lower right. That is how they spot themselves in a crowd.

A European on the other hand:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/presidents/

Has the bend running from top right to lower left. This bend is also known as the bend sinister.

Fashion, it could change your life and who you are.

Also, is there a pecking order for seats at the State Opening?

Thanks, Tiz