How very confusing our political landscape has become. I’d never bought into the idea of a hung parliament, not least because I didn’t think it would ever happen, rather like the Nick Clegg surge. But at the end of last week, it looked as though the UK might turn from red to blue. The next day, a merger seemed likely between blue and yellow. And then last night Gordon announced that he wouldn’t claim squatter’s rights in Downing Street, a move that paved the way for punchier relations between red and yellow.

Which means the UK outlook is now becoming distinctly orange. At least, until the end of this week, when we’ll probably ask Barack Obama to send some of his leftover senators to sort things out.

As it turns out, orange is having something of a moment. Last summer a tangerine hue was paraded up and down the world’s catwalks. Admittedly, very little of it was wearable. However, this summer, the colour has morphed into something that’s actually quite cheery, and could just be the antidote to winter blues, economic gloom and a forthcoming summer of political unrest.

If you need convincing, here’s some distinctively Robinson’s squash-coloured items currently available on a high street or web page near you.

Feeling brave? Even without its jewel embellishment you’ll stand out poolside in this M&S bikini, £31.50. Just don’t overdo the fake tan.

These MyaBlue Reef Sandals are going to look great with a turquoise manicure (I know, sounds a bit yuk, but apparently will be the colour of the season on well-dressed toes).  

I might treat a godchild to this cute little goldfish tote, £18 at Boden. Large enough for a beach or park-worth of necessities, but not so enormous it will weigh them down.

Wilbur & Gussie clutchbags make fabulous arm candy. We love the orange one which has a huge clip in the shape of a turtle. Great for weddings, and just the right colour for sultry holiday evenings.  £134.95 at The Handpicked Collection.

The Oliver Bonas Kate Dress, £35, is perfect for this transition season. Warm it up with opaque tights, without it’ll go strong all summer.

The Dorchester Collection’s new hotel Coworth Park , Ascot, won’t be open till September. It promises a huge spa, kids’ club, 240 acres to run around in and a carbon-neutral stance (reed beds for drainage, wood chip heating). All hotels in the collection have their own distinctive colour, and Coworth’s is, guess what? Orange. Wonder if they’ll give us a night to give away – watch this space!