Anya Hindmarch: I made Princess Diana a ‘cleavage bag’

Designer Anya Hindmarch, 56, grew up in Essex. Since she founded her brand in 1987, her handbags have been carried by royalty, politicians and celebrities. Her I’m Not A Plastic Bag tote, launched in 2007, contributed to the decision to charge for plastic bags in the UK.

She was awarded a damehood in 2024 and has five children, including three from her husband’s first marriage. They live in London. It’s very hard dropping off a child at eight at boarding school.

I regretted sending them to boarding school young. Going to boarding school at 11 or 13 is not such a trauma. But when they’re little, it doesn’t feel like they’re equipped.

My kids would say they loved it. It does give them a lovely, sporty education..