Brilliant, successful, fascinating… Just a few select words to describe one of the most inspirational women in the Investment industry. The Fold is mad for Gemma Godfrey, can you fault us?

Gemma is the Head of Investment Strategy, a television broadcaster, board director and quantum physicist. Voted the most popular woman in finance on Twitter by AdvisorOne (follow @GCGodfrey), Gemma directs the Asset Allocation and Investment Committees of Brooks Macdonald, an investment firm managing £3.5bn across 7 offices.

Profiled by the Sunday Times on the ascent of women to the boardroom, she is on the Advisory Board of Templars, a communications consultancy.

Co-hosting flagship shows on CNBC, Gemma is a leading financial commentator across all forms of media. Previously, she was the Chairman of the Investment Committee at Credo Capital, a Fund Manager for Julius Baer and GAM and held positions at UBS and Goldman Sachs, and is a quantum physicist by background.

Phew… we have no idea how she manages to do it all, but we are thrilled she was able to share some of her “favourites” and tips for success with us.

Gemma wears The Draycott Dress in Black

10 Q’s with Gemma Godfrey

Describe your office style:

Executive, tailored and stylish.

What is your greatest achievement to date?

Reaching a level of influence where I can make a tangible difference, directing companies to achieve their goals and inspiring women to further their careers.

What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome?

Maintaining a balance between work, rest and play.

Where do you get your inspiration?

My father set the bar high by building not just successful businesses but an outstanding reputation while doing so. In addition, my husband’s drive & astounding achievements are a daily source of inspiration.

Tips for success as a women in business:

• Follow your passion. Focus on what you are good at and enjoy doing, and then success will come more naturally.
• Dress for the job you want, not the job you have

Gemma in The Camelot dress (left) & Le Marais Capsule (right)

How do you support women in business?

As role model and mentor, I enjoy nurturing the next generation of women. I’m passionate about raising the profile of women in business through my work in the media, and making topical economic and financial issues more accessible.

What’s in your purse?

Mac’s ‘Studio Fix’ powder, Manuka honey lozenges, my Kindle, flats, and a pashmina. 

Best way to relieve stress:

Running, yoga, an evening at the spa with friends, and laughing with my family.

Favorite Holiday Spot:

By the coast of England – my family have a place by the sea which is one of my favourite places to relax.

What is your favorite Dress by The Fold?

The Bond Street in Sesame Suede, it’s the perfect work dress.

Follow Gemma on Twitter @GCGodfrey

The Bond Street Dress

• •

  Bond Street Dress Black Leather

  £375
• •

  Bond Street Dress Navy Leather

  £375
• • Sale!

  Bond Street Dress Sesame

  From: £295 £185

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This week, we meet Alexia Pinchbeck, founder of Bikini Fling – an online bikini boutique.

What were you doing prior to setting up your own business, Bikini Fling?

Plotting my escape from a career in corporate communications and branding! Most recently I worked for American Express and Thomson Reuters, but I was constantly brainstorming for my business idea, it needed to be something which captured my imagination!

We love that Bikini Fling was first inspired by a list of ‘Things to do before you’re 30’. What was the full story behind the setting up the brand?

A hefty dose of mischief!  My best friend Lucie (now the inspiration for my triangle bikini) and I were cheekily skinny dipping at midnight in a late summer holiday in Sardinia – we wondered aloud why life back in London wasn’t quite as exciting and adventurous as this, so we decided to set out to make it more interesting… we devised a list of “30 things to do before we were 30″ – things which, like skinny dipping, made our tummy flip with nerves at the audacity of it.

We wanted to write about the challenges, but needed a name – over a large pot of tea we came up with the concept of a ‘bikini fling’ – that moment just before you whip your bikini off for a skinny dip, but which symbolizes that same moment just before you are about to do something completely outside your comfort zone. Two weeks later I sat bolt upright in bed with the thought that we should design a bikini as one of the challenges… well… things rather spiraled from there.

Two years, a lot of research and hard work later, and I’ve got a beautiful collection that I’m really proud of. Starting a business was not on the list, but it has definitely been one big rollercoaster ride. The best part is seeing girls completely overexcited because they’ve found their perfect bikini (sometimes for the first time) – that gives me a big buzz.

We’d also love to know what were some more of those items on your list!

Well I knocked some of them off the other week… getting into national press (Vogue, Tatler and Daily Mail!), speaking on national radio (BBC Radio Oxford – yikes), a whole host of skinny dips (some cheekier than others), kissing a celebrity (I can’t quite decide who…), designing a piece of furniture…

For those fortunate enough to be jet-setting off this summer (leaving behind this miserable weather) what are some of your essential beach items?

First off, I’d pack the essentials… two of my favourite ‘kinis which I could then mix and match (I’m particularly loving the floral print and the Cherry Red at the moment – very English Rose – and I’d go for a Lucie-Lou and a Tallulah), a little throw on beach dress, wide-rimmed sunhat and glasses, as well as my trusty, very well-travelled bona fide Brazilian Havaianas (no other brand beats them).

I’d make sure my fingers & toes were bright and cheerful, my sunblock (Banana Boat, heavenly) stashed in a roomy beachbag along with something completely frothy to read. Lashings of cold ginger beer and pain au chocolat are a must.

When you’re opting for a more ‘clothed’ look, which dress is your favourite from The Fold collection?

The Draycott is unbelievable – it fits like a glove, while it a unique business work dress. For the first time ever I’m looking forward to hitting my monthly board meeting next week! I’m already on the list for when it comes out in ink…

The Draycott is a unique work dress!

When you’re able to catch a breath from work, what are some of your most cherished London hotspots?

I’m a Lido girl – so when the sun does make its way through you can find me at the Serpentine, London Fields or Brockwell (especially their Lido Café which does amaaazing food). On the rainier days, I head to The Bridge in Shoreditch for little shots of caffeine and inspiration…

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Whether it’s an exquisite ball, lavish cocktail party, or a last minute outfit decision, a woman knows she can always rely on her trusted ‘Little Black Dress’, or LBD to those fashionistas among us. It has become synonymous with both elegance and ease, as a staple item found in most women’s wardrobes.

However, this has not always been the case.

Prior to the 1920′s, a black dress was an item worn during periods of mourning, and commonly associated with death and sadness. It was not until 1926 when Coco Chanel revolutionised the image of the LBD on the cover of American Vogue. Her dress was branded ‘Chanel’s Ford’, likening the piece to a Model-T car- a symbol of American triumph and necessity. In the years to follow, the country would be plagued with depression and economic turmoil, yet it was the black dress which stood the test of time, and remained a fashionable item for all classes. Later, the cinematic femme fatale would take the black dress as her own, a dramatic movement away from the floral-clad housewives of the 1950′s.

Perhaps one of the most recognised pioneers of the LBD has to be Audrey Hepburn, as Hollie Golightly in the iconic film, Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The striking image of Audrey in her Givenchy black sheath Dress has become an emblem of style, fashion, and nostalgia. Paired with dripping pearls, a thin cigarette, and perfectly placed hair, Audrey is a dream of femininity and desire.

The LBD continues to reinvent itself throughout generations, and will always be one of the best go-to dresses in your wardrobe.

As a fashion brand, dedicated to helping you look and feel your best, we have come up with the ultimate LBD solution. The Draycott Dress is a classic cut with asymmetrical panel detail across the waist for the most flattering fit. Soft pleating on the side, and exposed gold back zip are the perfect finishes to this stunningly chic dress. Paired below with a Victoria Beckham Soft Leather tote, Oscar de la Renta gold leaf necklace, and Roberto Cavalli Lapis Lazuli snake ring. Of course, if looking to completely channel Audrey, you’ll first need to get your hands on some pearls. How will you wear the Draycott? Stay posted for more style tips and suggestions in our upcoming blog.

If you’d like to try the Draycott and the rest of the collection, why not book a private appointment with us! Come along to the ROUS ILAND Showroom for your own session with one of our stylists. Contact laura@thefoldlondon.com to book your appointment.

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