Lulu Guinness and Woffle. Courtesy of Lulu Guinness.

Lulu Guinness’ glorious accessories and handbags are a delicious mix of whimsy and sophistication, embodying a fabulously ecclectic woman who has been described as ’glamorous, girly, feminine, but not above getting her hands dirty.’ Lulu Guinness’ creations are displayed everywhere from her boutiques in New York and Tokyo to London’s V&A, and since the launch of Lulu Guinness 20 years ago, her distinct style has adorned everything from shoes and evening gowns to sunglasses and powder compacts.

On April 25, she will be re-launching her flagship Ellis Street boutique in London’s Mayfair as part of her 20th anniversary celebrations, and guests will be able to ooh and aah over her Collectable cabinet brimming with Lulu’s collectibles whilst nibbling on scrumptious cupcakes.

Chic Today recently caught up with this inspiring damsel and caught a sneaky peek of her latest collection of bedlinen and handbags.

You were awarded an OBE by her Majesty the Queen in 2005 for your significant contribution to British fashion. Which one of your S/S 09 handbags would you wear to tea with the Queen and why?

If I were to be invited for tea with the Queen, I would carry my new Black Cylinder Rose basket that is being launched this coming June. It has fabulously unusual feather flowers and is exquisitely made.
2009 is an important year for the glorious Lulu Guinness label, as it marks the 20th year since the first Lulu Guinness patent briefcase graced shelves at Liberty’s and Joseph.

What hopes and dreams do you aspire to for Lulu Guinness’ next 20 years?

There are always lots of plans…but we’ll have to see what happens over the next 20 years.

This year sees the launch of The Lulu Guinness Scholarship for MA Artefact Design at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion. Also my Ellis Street shop has just been re-launched, which is something I am very excited about.

Your favourite journey?

India and Gozo are my favourite places to travel to.

As mentioned, you are launching The Lulu Guinness Scholarship for MA Artefact Design. What words of advice/encouragement do you have for all young British design talents that are currently facing an unprecedented global recession?

Work placement opportunities, advice on business planning, production, sourcing and legal advice are all vital for students, especially in this current global recession. I have set up the Lulu Guinness Scholarship so as to help young designers fulfill their potential through professional studies and gain invaluable skills to follow great careers within the design industry. I want to help creative students who may not have the resources, receive top class tuition and also offer support during those difficult years post-study.

With the help of industry supporters from a diverse selection of creative avenues, doors will be opened to give the student access to introductions to influential people and businesses, to build up a network and support system.

Life is a bed of roses because…

If you are true to your heart ‘life is a bed of roses’, and remember, count your blessings before going to bed!