What inspired you to launch Libby London?
A genuine inability to find what I needed. I hate suits. I love dresses for work but most are either too short, inappropriate or too expensive. A good dress is so easy to wear – you just throw it on.
You’ve always been an entrepreneur – tell us about the business you set up at school, aged eight?
I set up a shop from my old-fashioned desk (one of those desks with a lid and you could put your school work inside). I used to line up pens and rubbers to sell. I bought a lot of chocolate with my earnings, but I nearly got suspended when I got caught re-selling a strawberry-flavoured rubber about 10 times.
What is your proudest moment?
I don’t think I’ve had it yet, but I’m really proud of launching my business.
How do you switch from investment banker to creator of a womenswear label?
I did find it hard to begin with, but I’m unbelievably organised. I keep both jobs totally separate. If I didn’t my mind would wander. I make fashion business calls during my 30-minute drive to and from my banking job and I use my holidays for fabric sourcing trips.
Who are your top three style icons?
An immaculately dressed senior woman who worked at Deutsche Bank. I think she wore the same dress in different colours. Christine Lagard is very sophisticated. She’s a proper power woman who always looks in control; and Lizzy Hammond (serial entrepreneur), who is my mentor, always nails looking sophisticated but sexy while staying on the right side of appropriate.
What is the worst fashion faux pas you have ever seen in the office?
My pet hates are skirts that are too short and cheap, bobbly cardigans worn over dresses, which is why I offer a lot of dresses with sleeves.
What item of clothing could you not live without?
See-through knickers. VPL (visible panty line) is another no-no.
Any other top tips for ensuring an outfit is ‘office appropriate’?
Make sure your dress is properly lined.
What’s your favourite fashion era?
Right now. Generally people care more about what they look good in than fads; clothes that fit well are stylish and elegant.
Do you collect anything?
I’m obsessed with fabrics. I’ll often head to Shepherd’s Bush Market.
What is your favourite design from your collections so far?
Thames in oyster – it’s unique and elegant; and Astley is so comfortable and flattering.
What’s your life philosophy?
Get on with it. If you think of an idea get on with it immediately. Otherwise someone else will beat you to it or you’ll lose the energy to do it.
What do you consider to be your necessities in life?
Friends, sunshine and drive.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Make-up. I love lotions and potions.
