In the final part of our four-part series on fashion designers’ best-kept travel secrets—and how these locations have influenced their work—we talk to Philippa Thackeray about the diverse inspirations from the UK
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next travel destination, there is an unlikely source you’ve probably not even thought about: fashion designers. It makes sense, designers are always on the lookout for inspiration for their next collection and adventures are full opportunities that spark inspiration. In fact, many designer brands have been built on their founders’ insatiable wanderlust or the love they have for the place they call home. From the most secluded coves are in Turkey to the most untouched beaches in Thailand, fashion designers have been inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful locations.
In our four-part series, these globe-trotting designers spill their best-kept travel secrets to Tatler and tell us how these destinations have form the basis of their collections. In the final part, we talk to Philippa Thackeray, the creative behind British brand Paper London on translating British references into destination wear—and what's next on her travel wish list.
You’ve likely seen Paper London’s sculptural silhouettes on your favourite celebrities from supermodel Gigi Hadid to Barbie actor Margot Robbie. The award-winning British label by Philippa Thackeray is a cool contemporary line of architectural ready-to-wear and sustainable swimwear, which are stocked in more than 50 stores worldwide including Harvey Nichols Hong Kong and Lane Crawford.
In case you missed it: How Turkey’s Mediterranean region and Aegean Sea inspire Siedrés, a fashion brand worn by Hailey Bieber and Tiffany Hsu
What are some of your favourite holiday spots in the UK?
My favourites are St Ives in Cornwall as I love the charming streets and the art scene; the Isle of Harris in Scotland for its amazing pristine beaches and dramatic rugged landscapes; and the village of Portmeirion in Wales, which overlooks the sea and is supposedly inspired by Portofino. You have to watch a sunset here—the pastel colours of the town really come alive. The fairy pools in Isle of Skye are also incredible to visit.
When is the best time to go?
May or June tends to be best time to go to the Isle of Harris as it’s at its driest. For St Ives, go in June or July so that you get those lovely long days of sunshine. However, if you go towards the end of spring, you get to see the stunning wild flowers in bloom creating colour explosions. For the Isle of Skye, I would recommend August; the waters are chilly so you want to maximise the time they get some sun. Our new collection of long-sleeved swimsuits is perfect for swims in colder waters, and I always make sure I have our signature Paper knitwear on hand. Visit the fairy pools of Isle of Skye at sunrise or sunset to see them at their most magical.
