Garden gadgets

Hottest summer since 1976 say the forecasts? We won't be holding our breath. But, ever the eternal optimists, we will be stocking up on all things summery for our outdoor space. After all, come June we'll be forcing ourselves to sit outside regardless of the weather. It's the British way. If the predictions are correct, you can find some shade under a bright, summery parasol. Otherwise, you can shelter from the rain under it.

Open and shut case

Ultra cheap and fairly cheerful, this Ramso parasol is classic, colourful, and keeps the sun off you. What more do you need?

5.99 from www.ikea.com

Brolley good

For those who like their parasols a little more frou-frou, this frothy number comes with an unbleached cotton shade and is decorated with mother-of-pearl hearts, coconut beads and tassels. If that's not enough, both the finial and wooden pole are carved and decorated with gold paint.

195 from www.dobbies.com It's a breeze

This Breezer parasol is big enough for a shade canopy, and its multiple flaps of dangling fabric move pleasantly in even the gentlest breeze. The flaps are white, and the top comes in beige, but we prefer the grey version.

1,950 from www.gomodern.co.uk

• This article was first published in The Scotsman on 15 May.