Have you looked at the soles of your shoes lately? That film of street scum that accumulates underfoot – peppered occasionally with chewing gum or even the odd drawing pin – is infinitely superior to the scourge upon humanity that is the banker. Or so the media and public would have us believe.

Bankers are still public enemy number one and may well be for some time to come. But denying one's profession over dinner party conversation is getting staid. Discretion, charm and stylish presentation founded on true substance are the weapons of choice for overcoming 'bankerist' prejudice.