You wanted it, we got it for you. This article is for any woman who dares to suggest that it's OK to live off a rich man and is likely to be dismissed as a traitor by feminists.

KNOW WHAT YOU WANTBEFORE you even contemplate being a kept woman, know what kind of man you want.

Be confident - an intriguing 21st century woman with her own independent pursuits and talents. You want this man to fall in love with your beautiful mind.

HAVE A SKILL

Choose an unusual skill - this is intriguing and sexy. Play polo, or golf (not football - men see women who like football as spies in the camp); have an intimate knowledge of 18th and 19th century courtesans; play an instrument; learn about wine or speak an unusual language. Knowledge of food is always sensual.

SPEND TIME ON YOURSELF

Spending time on yourself - doing your nails, having a massage or a facial, or even just wearing your favourite perfume - is all good for your self-image and self esteem.

UNDERWEAR

Lingerie is psychologically revealing. If a woman is in a happy relationship she has all sorts of fabulous lingerie, but when she's unhappy she's got her 90-denier winter warmers, and fleecy vests, because she's not particularly interested in sharing that part of herself.

Wear something silky that makes you feel good.

CLOTHES

Nurture your curves. There is nothing wrong with being a size 14. Wear elegant, simple, well-cut clothes, such as shawl-collared suits which hug your curves, in neutral tones. And don't forget your heels.

WHERE TO MEET

The first-class lounge at the airport is perfect. Save up all your air miles and buy a club class seat to somewhere such as Paris or New York.

Hope for a delay, then you will all get to know each other playing Scrabble, with endless free drinks. Fine art, furniture and jewellery auctions at the top auction houses are also perfect.

WHAT KIND OF MAN?

Obviously he's got to be wealthy, but he's also got to be discreet. Showy wealth is a definite no-no.

Lots of gold jewellery shows someone who needs to be in a credit card club to feel financially confident. All a man needs is a beautiful watch, or a signet ring with the family crest.

Find out where he has been on holiday. There are two types: if he has been scuba diving in the Maldives or white-water rafting in the Amazon, this shows he has money and a sense of adventure. Alternatively, cushy stays in sumptuous hotels are perfect. If he hasn't had time for a holiday, he's too busy to appreciate you.

HIS PERSONALITY

He should have an active hobby - one that shows stamina, which is vital. He should be generous, of course, and protective of you.

He should be well-read and informed, reading at least one newspaper.

DROPPING HINTS

In our modern world where women are career- queens, men find this concept odd.

One male friend asked: 'Why would an intellectual woman want to be bank-rolled?' But when it was explained that it would allow her to follow her vocation, the concept became quite appealing. Start by saying that you would love to be able to pursue your passion as a rare book restorer/ cartoonist/script writer, but can't afford to. He'll be impressed and will offer to pay.

HOW DO YOU KNOW HE WILL KEEP YOU?

The first sign is when he offers to pay off your credit card bills, then suggests you don't go in to work but spend time with him. While he's at a business lunch he would love it if you went shopping - he will pick up the tab, of course.

When it comes to this sort of arrangement, you have got to be honest, clever and sophisticated.

TERMS

Be bold, be daring, be honest. You need a joint bank account - you set the limit - plus your own personal savings account.

He can buy you a house, a flat - or, of course, you can move into his mansion. Ask for accounts at your favourite shops. You also need treats such as manicures, pedicures, chocolates and flowers. Exotic holidays and weekend breaks are essential.

SEX

This is sensual, loving, tantalising sex, not you fulfilling his fantasy - not unless the fantasy is mutual.

When it comes to sex, remember, curiosity comes first. With all the money you now have access to, you can change the venue as often as you like. Instead of going home, book into a five-star hotel. It will never get boring.

GIFTS

You should ask for gifts that are original.

Expect a single, beautiful pearl, elegant jewelery.

HOLIDAYS

At least four times a year, not counting short breaks.

Think skiing, diving, a trip to the best beaches.

He might have his own private yacht, so cruise the Caribbean or the islands in the Mediterranean.

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR TIME

Write that novel that's said to lurk inside us all - finish your art history degree.

Get to know the best restaurants and cafes so you can lunch at length with your friends. Afternoons-should be reserved for shopping or pampering, and evenings with him.

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR (HIS) MONEY

It goes without saying that you will revamp your wardrobe. Keep champagne, chablis, caviar, organic bread, bacon and quails' eggs in your fridge.

Feel charitable towards bone fide beggars - give more to buskers and pavement artists, because they are at least trying.

Send your family on their dream holiday, and treat your man to a surprise tripthe best seats at a major international sporting event.

WHAT TO SAY TO CRITICS

Always keep a bottle of champagne in the fridge for your disapproving female friends. They will be extremely envious, so kill them with kindness.

Never apologise about your chosen lifestyle. Don't brag about it either - it's not dignified.

END IT

You can insist on an expiry date - a year and a day maybe - but you decide when. Do not return your gifts.

When it ends, keep all your overflow cash and go on holiday for a month. Go somewhere romantic and beautiful, and take time to think.

You never know, he might follow you there and beg to keep you in a permanent arrangement.

DailyMail.