In Conversation with: Alice Holland-Lu
In a fashion industry that still expects women to fit their clothes rather than the other way around, what happens when someone decides to flip the script entirely? Alice Holland-Lu’s journey from wholesale director to community-driven founder of The Female Archetypes illustrates how personal pain points can become powerful business innovations.
A moment of post-partum vulnerability became the catalyst for creating stylish, truly sustainable clothing that adapts to women's fluctuating bodies, and building the kind of community the fashion industry has largely ignored.
In Conversation with: Aoidín Sammon
In a world where anyone with a decent Instagram feed can call themselves a stylist, what actually separates the real deal from the rest? Aoidín Sammon is one of London's most sought-after luxury personal stylists and is 100% the real deal.
From head designer at Matches Fashion to building her own thriving styling business entirely through word-of-mouth, Aoidín's journey offers brilliant insights into what authentic luxury service actually looks like.
In Conversation with: Alli Sims and Vanessa Mace
Meeting Alli Sims and Vanessa Mace, co-founders of luxury outlet Bessette, you're struck by their determination to transform the previous season designer experience. Having witnessed their entrepreneurial spirit during their time as MATCHES personal shoppers, their approach embodies service excellence in everything they do.
In our conversation, they reveal how curating past-season pieces with care transforms "jumble sale" into premium experience, and how their direct client knowledge has been instrumental in lieu of traditional buying expertise. Their philosophy - bringing respect back to every designer piece - demonstrates that true luxury service comes from attention to detail across every touchpoint.
In conversation with: sarah haymes
Meeting Sarah Haymes, whose fascinating journey has taken her from 90s London model to Head of Personal Shopping at Editorialist, you're immediately drawn to her rare blend of genuine warmth and sharp business acumen. Having previously led the MATCHES Personal Shopping team, Sarah embodies authentic leadership in everything she does.
In our conversation, she shares insights on maintaining human connection in an increasingly digital luxury landscape, and finding fulfilment beyond surface success. Her philosophy - treating people as people first, clients second - offers a masterclass in leadership that balances commercial excellence with true authenticity and perspective.
In conversation with: Lauren Faiers
Meeting Lauren Faiers, Personal Shopper and founder of The Shopper London, you're immediately struck by her polished presence and calming energy. From Harrods' prestigious By Appointment department to NET-A-PORTER's personal shopping team, Lauren now runs her own thriving business with a philosophy centred on genuine connection.
In our conversation, Lauren shares insights on respecting clients' time, building trust through true honesty, and creating sustainable boundaries that allow her to deliver exceptional service without compromising her wellbeing.