Precious metals have gone rainbow bright for summer. Lisa Haynes marvels at the trend for coloured metallics.

If the Olympic summer of 2012 was all about bronze, silver and gold, this is the year to dazzle in metallic colour.

Think high-gloss tones of purple, green, blue and orange that practically reflect in the sun. Style's Quality Street moment, if you will.

Traditional metals have received a shimmering update, thanks to the likes of catwalk trend-setters Burberry Prorsum, Dior and Emporio Armani, who sent foil, iridescent and holographic finishes down the runways.

The lustrous effect can be toned down with light pastel hues, so experiment with different colours to find your perfect metal match.

Time to polish up your look and take metallics to the max.

Shiny style rules

Still stuck on overfamiliar gold and silver? Ease your way into metal brights with our golden fashion rules:

:: Pastels are the easiest way to work coloured metallics if you're not brave enough for brights.

:: Create impact in coloured metal with structured, neat pieces, rather than floaty foils with excess material.

:: Bright metallics are perfect for daytime. Pare down by teaming with casual T-shirts or fine knits.

:: If you're feeling too 'shiny', tone down your metallic with matte nudes for a chic and summery look.

:: Only ever wear one bright-coloured metallic piece. Any more will be shine overkill.

Fashion flash

:: Ted's travels

Ted Baker celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, and to mark the occasion, the brand's inviting fans on a globetrotting adventure.

Baker has organised a competition to win a holiday to one of three far-flung destinations that have helped shape his designs. Coral buttons inspired by the Great Barrier Reef mean one winner will be sent on a five-night 'Reef Encounter'. Customers can also enter for their chance to win a 'Loch Stock' trip to bonnie Scotland, where Baker opened his very first store, or 'Saddle Up' for an all-American ranch experience where the idea for Baker's Bespoken For accessory personalisation service first took shape. Follow the designer 'Around the World in 25 Years' at www.teds25years.com and enter to win a Come Fly With Ted trip.

:: Recessionista alert

Stock up on smalls with Debenhams' offer. The bottom line is you buy two pairs of women's knickers and get the third pair free. Offer available on selected lines in stores or online at www.debenhams.com with promo code RM26.