20 British clothing brands you need to know

These are the British clothing brands to invest in - from M&S and Nobody's Child to Rixo

Four models wearing outfits by British clothing brands
(Image credit: Phase Eight/M&S/Whistles/Rixo/Boden)

British clothing brands are a go-to destination for both style and quality. With a host of iconic names as well as up-and-coming trendy labels, they offer something for every taste without breaking the bank.

When it comes to building a capsule wardrobe, there's no better place to shop than British clothing brands. With the likes of Reiss, Whistles and M&S on the high street, you can expect extremely high quality as well as trend-led designs that still incorporate timeless elements.

To help you navigate these options, we've analysed the best British clothing brands, evaluating each for their quality, signature style, value for money and commitment to sustainability.

French clothing brands like Sézane offer a certain je ne sais quoi with their effortlessly chic aesthetic, whilst Scandi names such as & Other Stories and Arket are great at minimalism. But the beauty of the best British brands is that there's something for everyone, with a rich heritage that spans classic tailoring to cutting-edge trends.

“British clothing brands are known for their cutting-edge designs, quality and have long since influenced the fashion landscape, putting London’s fashion scene, in particular, firmly on the map as an innovative global trend-setter,” says personal stylist Natalie Robinson.

She continues: “British brands also continue to have a positive impact on the fashion industry by supporting ethical standards. British manufacturing, for example, is known for its quality and is made to recognised industry practices. Reportedly, 52% of UK exporters say Britain’s brand helps boost their sales.”

With that in mind, let us guide you through the British clothing brands that truly deliver on this proud heritage.

Best British clothing brands as chosen by our fashion team 

Most affordable

The most affordable brands offer high quality pieces at lower prices. A good comparison point is how much an occasion dress costs, and on both M&S and Next you can find some really pretty options for under £100.

1. M&S

Three models wearing various clothes from M&S including a leopard print dress, a red jumper and barrel leg jeans

(Image credit: M&S)

Reasons to buy

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Great for basics
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Trend-led designs 
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Good size range, going up to size 24. Also offers petite and tall options.

Reasons to avoid

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Lots of other brands on-site make it harder to navigate

Founded: 1884
Known for: Great lingerie, good quality clothing and Percy Pigs!
Returns process: Free, in store or via Evri or Royal Mail. They also offer an extended Christmas returns window

One of the most famous British clothing brands, there are few as iconic as M&S. Brits shop here for everything from food to homeware, and its fashion offering is always reliable. Well known for basics, you can buy some of the best bras here, and it also offers more seasonal, trend-led pieces – for example, you can’t go wrong with Marks & Spencer coats! Sizes go from 6 up to 24 in some items, and they offer regular, tall and petite options. With great shoes (which are available in half sizes) and bags on offer too, it's as strong for accessories as it is for clothing. In recent years M&S has also started offering a selection of pieces from other, largely British, clothing brands which has meant that there is even more product on site. While this does definitely increase the choice, it does mean that unless you filter for Marks & Spencer specifically, you end up seeing a lot of other labels, which can be overwhelming.

2. Next

three models wearing different outfits from Next including a long khaki knitted dress, a brown blazer and a gold sequin t-shirt and jeans

(Image credit: Next)

Reasons to buy

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Great for workwear
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Good prices
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Large range of sizes, from 6-26, plus separate curve, petite and tall ranges

Reasons to avoid

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The website's size can be overwhelming

Founded: 1982
Known for: Their mega Boxing Day sale, celebrity collaborations and easy-to-wear pieces
Returns process: Free in store, but costs £2.50 to send back via Evri or Royal Mail

From its workwear-focused beginnings in the '80s, Next has transformed into a retail powerhouse that dresses the whole family. While it's still a great place to pick up women's trouser suits, it now offers a range of trend-led and classic pieces at reasonable prices. Beyond it's own range, it's brought other beloved British brands under its umbrella, including Made, Cath Kidston and Joules. Its comprehensive website has become a one-stop destination for both fashion and homeware, while celebrity collaborations with Rochelle Humes and Emma Willis keep things current. With dedicated curve, maternity, petite and tall ranges, Next truly caters to everyone.

Best for day-to-day

These are our go-to brands for day-to-day style. Whether it's office essentials, or laidback basics, the following stores get it just right.

3. Boden

Three models wearing Boden outfits

(Image credit: Boden)

Reasons to buy

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Playful designs
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Move towards more eco-friendly fabrics
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Good size range

Reasons to avoid

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High price points

Launched: 1991
Known for: Breton tops, quality classics and signature bright colours and prints
Returns process: Free returns, with a 90-day return period

Dreamt up by founder Johnnie Boden from his kitchen table, this quintessentially British clothing brand is sure to bring some joy to your wardrobe. Boden is big on colour and print, taking timeless silhouettes and reinventing them with playful design twists. Maximising staple silhouettes, such as all-rounder shirts, gorgeous A-line skirts and chic knitwear, it's a one-stop shop when it comes to building out your seasonal wardrobe.

4. Hush

Three models wearing Hush outfits

(Image credit: Hush)

Reasons to buy

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Laidback aesthetic 
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Investment pieces 
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Lots of colour

Reasons to avoid

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Limited size range

Launched: 2003
Known for: Elevated loungewear, commitment to slow fashion and their timeless designs with a contemporary edge
Returns process: Free returns and exchanges. They also offer an extended Christmas returns period.

Hush is all about relaxed dressing. Founded by Australian Mandy Watkins, Hush was born out of her desire to solve her own wardrobe dilemmas after moving to the UK. The brand's signature style for easy, everyday dressing pieces that still feel trend-led but not overwhelmingly 'trendy' has been a huge hit with British fashion fans.

5. Mint Velvet

Three models wearing Mint Velvet

(Image credit: Mint Velvet)

Reasons to buy

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Luxury basics
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Highly versatile
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Broad range of categories

Reasons to avoid

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Only up to a size 18 or XL in some styles

Launched: 2009
Known for: Relaxed glamour, luxurious fabrics and textures and a a wearable palette of neutrals
Returns process:
Free returns

The “relaxed glamour” ethos is at the heart of everything Mint Velvet does. Its founders wanted easy, glamorous clothes that its customers would wear from work to the school run to drinks with friends - a multi-tasking wardrobe that felt good too. Expect high-end basics such as the loungewear, relaxed dresses and buttery-soft leather jackets. While the brand sits firmly in the premium bracket, the Mint Velvet sale is your chance to score their sophisticated pieces at more accessible prices.

6. Toast

Three models wearing Toast outfits

(Image credit: Toast)

Reasons to buy

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Clothes that are built to last
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Timeless style 
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Luxe fabrics

Reasons to avoid

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Not trend-led

Launched: 1997
Known for: Relaxed silhouettes, commitment to organic and sustainable materials and minimalist aesthetic
Returns process: Free returns via store or Royal Mail. They also offer an extended Christmas return period

Toast’s collections feature fuss-free minimalist closet staples that are beautifully designed. It’s one of the few British clothing brands with its own full pattern room, curating original high-quality pieces that are created to last. Every piece feels like it’s made with love and thought, with modern, easy-to-wear silhouettes and five-star fabrics. While the brand keeps trends in its peripheral vision, its distinctive brand aesthetic shines through every piece, offering feminine styles with a tailored and figure-flattering twist.

Luxury

At the other end of the spectrum, luxury British clothing brands are at the high end of the high street, and specialise in pieces that are much more of an investment. If you use the dress test, styles on ME+EM and LK Bennett are around the £295-£300 mark. These brands are also where you'll find buttery soft leather, impeccably tailored trouser suits and outerwear that will last a lifetime.

7. ME+EM

Three models wearing a bright coloured pink dress, a striped white and black shirt and a black denim jumpsuit from ME+EM, shot against a light background

(Image credit: ME+EM)

Reasons to buy

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Could-be-designer looks
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High-quality tailoring 
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Beautiful fabrications

Reasons to avoid

-
Small size range

Launched: 2009
Known for: High quality tailoring, pieces that don't date and great tailoring
Returns process: Free, via Royal Mail

When it comes to investment pieces that stand the test of time, London's ME+EM leads the pack. Founded by former advertising executive Claire Hornby with a vision for functional yet flattering contemporary wear, the brand excels in versatile separates and dresses. Their carefully curated collections blend neutral staples with purposeful pops of colour and print, all designed to mix and match effortlessly. Though contemporary in feel, each piece is crafted with longevity in mind, sidestepping fleeting trends in favour of enduring style. Worn by celebrities including the Princess of Wales, Margot Robbie and Sienna Miller. it's no wonder ME+EM is becoming a go-to for modern investment pieces. It can be pricey though, so if the latest collection is a bit more than you were hoping to spend, check out the ME+EM sale.

8. Reiss

Three models wearing a suit, a vest and trousers and a navy cape dress all from Reiss

(Image credit: Reiss)

Reasons to buy

+
Great for work and play
+
Luxe fabrics 
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Investment tailoring

Reasons to avoid

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Small size range and cut, with sizes only going up to a size 18

Launched: 1971
Known for: Sharp tailoring, luxe occasion wear and ‘that’ royal engagement dress
Returns process: Free in store, £1.95 via Evri

One of the best English clothing brands, Reiss is well known for its brilliant straight-to-market tailoring. With a slightly smaller cut (but sharp finish) the brand does carry a limited size range, but if you fall within its parameters, this is the brand to invest in for directional blazers, smart shirting, workwear trousers and some of the best wedding guest dresses on the high street. Creating designs that will stay in your wardrobe for many years to come, Reiss favours a muted colour palette - think grey, beige and black - adding a dash of pastels in the summer to give a nod to brighter days. Expect high-end fabrics like cashmere, silk and wool. If you’re on a budget, keep an eye out for Reiss Black Friday deals for a chance to snag these luxurious pieces at a lower price.

9. AllSaints

Three models wearing clothes from AllSaints including a biker jacket, a leopard print dress and a stripy jumper, shot against a pale background

(Image credit: AllSaints)

Reasons to buy

+
Our go-to for denim and leather
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Fashion with an edge
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Strong brand identity

Reasons to avoid

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Limited size ranges

Launched: 1994
Known for: Signature leather pieces, their edgy/rock aesthetic and slouchy knits
Returns process: Free in store and via Royal Mail

Known for making some of the best leather jackets and biker boots, AllSaints is a top UK brand you can rely on for pieces with an edge. Their well-cut denim, for example, is a great place to find the best jeans for your body type, with a range of styles and washes to suit different preferences. From oversized knits to those perfect jeans, AllSaints make putting together a failsafe weekend wardrobe easy. With a distinctive edgy signature, it may not suit all tastes, but the brand does have a great range of basics, such as soft t-shirts and slinky midi dresses, that have broad appeal.

10. LK Bennett

Three models wearing LK Bennett outfits

(Image credit: LK Bennett)

Reasons to buy

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Gorgeous prints and vibrant colours
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Feminine details 
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Ideal for occasionwear

Reasons to avoid

-
No plus sizes

Launched: 1990
Known for: Premium occasion wear, signature prints and their royally-approved court shoes
Returns process: Free, in store or via Royal Mail. Bridal and discounted returns incur a £4.95 return fee. They also offer an extended Christmas returns window

Another British clothing brand favoured by the Princess of Wales, LK Bennett was launched in 1990 with the dream of bringing 'a bit of Bond Street luxury to High Street'. 30 years later, it continues to do just that, letting everyone enjoy a slice of London-inspired fashion. Expect feminine silhouettes in high-quality fabrics that give a nod to vintage prints and patterns but with thoroughly modern silhouettes. LK Bennett covers a huge array of categories including sumptuous knitwear, sharp workwear and even statement accessories, with their iconic shoe collection being a particular highlight.

11. Whistles

three models wearing whistles clothing against a light grey background

(Image credit: Whistles)

Reasons to buy

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Fashion-forward designs
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Unique prints 
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Great basics

Reasons to avoid

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Limited sizing

A premium British clothing brand, Whistles is loved by the fashion crowd for its ability to always create standout interpretations of runway trends at more accessible price points. Covering everything from knitwear to outerwear and some of the best dresses, Whistles also has a stellar bridal collection for those who want a more fashion-forward feel. The brand excels at elevating everyday pieces with contemporary twists - think classic blazers with unexpected cuts, or midi dresses with architectural details. With a knack for balancing timeless appeal with current trends, they've mastered that sweet spot between high street and high-end, making luxury style more attainable.

Most sustainable

Sustainability has become increasingly important to shoppers in the last few years, and we've chosen brands that focus on responsibly-sourced fabrics and are conscious of their impact on the planet.

12. Nobody's Child

Three models wearing Nobody's Child outfits

(Image credit: Nobody's Child)

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable picks
+
On-trend styles
+
Eco-conscious

Reasons to avoid

-
Only goes up to size 18

Launched: 2015
Known for: Puff sleeved dresses, pretty patterns and affordable sustainable fashion
Returns process: Free returns. They don’t accept online returns to their three London stores.

Nobody's Child is one of our favourite British clothing brands for both affordable and trend-led pieces. Offering feminine floaty midi dresses and blouses as well as sturdy denim and outerwear that will serve you well for years to come, this is a brand that will cater to most tastes with pieces that have timeless appeal. The brand's most recent range was designed in-house at their London-based studio and is made from over 95% organic, lower impact or recycled materials - so it wins sustainability points too. Keeping in with its green credentials, it also offers a rental and repair service. Now also stocked in M&S, it's easier than ever to add their stylish and sustainable pieces to your wardrobe.

13. White Stuff

Three models wearing White Stuff outfits

(Image credit: White Stuff)

Reasons to buy

+
Cool colour combos
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Quirky prints
+
Good size range (up to size 24 on some items)

Reasons to avoid

-
Might not be to everyone's taste

Launched: 1985
Known for: In-house designed quirky prints, natural fabrics and striking colour combinations.
Returns process: Free in store or with Evri, £2.00 via Royal Mail. They also offer an extended Christmas return period.

White Stuff was created by two ski enthusiasts back in 1985 and the name of the brand refers to snow. It’s evolved massively since then, from two guys who wanted to fund their stays in the French Alps by selling t-shirts to a giant brand with hundreds of stores across the UK and Germany. Expect quirky prints, unusual colour combos, and easy-to-wear silhouettes all built to last - White Stuff is big on the details. The brand has had a recent makeover and now features more trend-led pieces with the unique White Stuff stamp on them. Sustainability is also key, with 60 percent of all clothing being made using materials that are kinder to people and the planet.

14. Omnes

Three models wearing Omnes outfits

(Image credit: Omnes)

Reasons to buy

+
Sustainable fabrics
+
Unique prints
+
Great prices

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited sizes

Launched: 2020
Known for: Affordable eco-friendly fashion, bright colours and slinky slip dresses
Returns process: Returns cost £2.99

Not just one of the newest British clothing brands on this list, Omnes is also a sustainable clothing brand too. From the first sketch to the final product, each part of the process has been carefully considered to minimise the environmental impact. With great price points, Omnes is just one of many brands helping to make ethical fashion trendy and financially accessible for shoppers. And of course, its pieces are so beautiful, that eco-friendly re-wearing is guaranteed. Their sales are also brilliant and you're guaranteed to bag a real bargain.

15. Albaray

Three models wearing different outfits from Albaray

(Image credit: Albaray)

Reasons to buy

+
Wearable designs
+
Sustainable style
+
Good price point

Reasons to avoid

-
Small size range (8-18)
-
Items sell out quickly

Launched: 2021
Known for: Easy to wear dresses (with pockets!), great quality basics and trend-led denim
Returns process: All returns are free within 30 days and they also offer free exchanges

Albaray is quickly becoming a must-have British brand, despite only launching in 2021. Founded by three fashion veterans during lockdown, this eco-conscious brand is now stocked by major retailers like John Lewis and M&S. Albaray proves that sustainability doesn't mean sacrificing style, offering a range of trendy pieces from playful prints to wardrobe staples. By utilising recycled polyester, organic denim and deadstock fabrics, they create contemporary clothing with a lower environmental impact.

Occasionwear

These are the labels that particularly specialise in fancy frocks that will work for weddings, days at the races and black tie dress codes.

16. Needle & Thread

Three models wearing Needle & Thread dresses and a tulle skirt

(Image credit: Needle & Thread)

Reasons to buy

+
Stocks up to a size 22
+
Amazing embellishment work
+
Unique designs

Reasons to avoid

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High price point, with dresses starting at £220

Launched: 2013
Known for: Intricate embellishments, romantic details and beautiful bridal gowns
Returns process: Free via Royal Mail

Founded by Hannah Coffin, Needle & Thread is a British clothing brand focused on luxurious feminine pieces that are steeped in romance. Largely governed by an occasionwear aesthetic, Needle & Thread make some of the most beautiful gowns if you're looking for the best wedding guest dresses, or for a bridal gown with a difference. With sensationally pretty floral prints, timeless frothy tulle designs and rich embellishments, if you're in need of a cocktail dress or standout gown for a black tie event, this is the place to come. More recently Needle & Thread have moved into knitted dress and knitwear, for a more daywear take on its vintage style. Now stocking up to a size 22, the brand's dresses are universally flattering.

17. Phase Eight

Three models wearing Phase Eight outfits

(Image credit: Phase Eight)

Reasons to buy

+
Flattering cuts
+
Great for occasion dressing 
+
Has plus size edit and petite range

Reasons to avoid

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Largely for special occasionwear

Phase Eight has evolved far beyond its special occasion roots, though it still reigns supreme in the art of event dressing. Today, the British clothing brand offers a sophisticated mix of both statement and everyday pieces, united by their exceptional attention to fit. While their occasion wear continues to shine – with dresses and jumpsuits that strike the perfect balance between trend-aware and timeless – their expanding casual collection proves they're just as adept at elevating the everyday. The result? A brand that seamlessly transitions from momentous celebrations to Monday mornings.

18. Hobbs

Three models wearing Hobbs outfits

(Image credit: Hobbs)

Reasons to buy

+
High-quality fabrics
+
Attention to detail 
+
Strong special occasionwear edit

Reasons to avoid

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No plus sizes

From fancy occasion outfits to smart and stylish workwear, British clothing brand Hobbs knows a thing or two about dressing well. With a very diverse collection, Hobbs is well known for making some of the best occasionwear looks. Quality and classic cuts are at the heart of everything the brand does and even the basics feel premium, the kind of pieces you’d imagine the Princess of Wales wears on her days off from royal duties. Whether you're searching for the perfect wedding guest dress or a chic blazer to elevate your everyday style, Hobbs has something to offer.

Cool British clothing brands

These are some of the coolest British clothing brands around right now. They're favourites amongst celebrities and fashion editors, and they release consistently fashion-forward lines.

19. Rixo

Three models wearing Rixo outfits

(Image credit: Rixo)

Reasons to buy

+
Stocks up to a size 24
+
In-house designed prints 
+
Fashion crowd favourite

Reasons to avoid

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Can be expensive, although there is a good mix of price points on site

Launched: 2015
Known for: Vintage-inspired designs, printed dresses and their oh-so-chic bridal collection
Returns process: Free returns within 14 days

Launched from the London living room of designers and friends Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, Rixo has cornered the market for personality-packed prints. From some of the best midi dresses to slinky skirts, each piece has been carefully cut to suit a range of body types for a flattering, feminine silhouette. The brand has even launched a bridal collection and also has accessory and swimwear edits to meet all your wardrobe needs.

20. Kitri

Three models wearing Kitri outfits

(Image credit: Kitri)

Reasons to buy

+
Unusual, eye-catching designs
+
Limited runs for eco brownie points
+
Youthful design aesthetic

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited sizing

Launched: 2017
Known for: Limited-edition collections, quirky prints and dresses for all occasions
Returns process: Returns cost £3. You can also do an exchange for the same price.

A British clothing brand with a difference, the London-based label was born out of the frustration of not being able to find well-made, distinctive designs that don't cost a fortune. While Kitri don't follow trends, you will find plenty of brightly-hued pieces that give a nod to the fashion colour trends, whilst its bold designs will be sure to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Another plus point, it's loved by the fashion crowd.

Best British clothing brands - where to browse

Based on our own wardrobes, these are the fashion team's 4 favourite British clothing brands.

Which British clothing brands ship internationally?

All of the British clothing brands on this list can be shipped worldwide. Just be sure to check the shipping costs and whether there are taxes to consider before adding to basket. We'd also recommend making a beeline for the bricks-and-mortar stores if you happen to be visiting the UK.

Jayne Cherrington-Cook

With over 22 years’ experience in journalism, Jayne has written about a variety of subjects. She spent the start of her career within the world of film, interviewing Hollywood stars, attending premieres and lusting after red carpet outfits, and then moved into fashion, launching websites for big magazines such as Look, Woman’s Own and Wedding and working with top fashion brands such as Westfield, LK Bennett and Hunter. 

Career highlights include dressing up as Kylie (in gold hot pants!) for a national newspaper and working on big fashion events alongside Giles Deacon, Henry Holland and Naomi Campbell. 

With contributions from