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Shirley Robertson

Belinda Robertson OBE - Knitwear Designer

Belinda Robertson, OBE, is a cashmere knitwear designer brought up in Glasgow where she has her design studio. Belinda was a Brownie and a Queens Guide.

"I feel lucky in all ways - I couldn't ask for more."

Scotland and being Scottish...


You have a home in London and Edinburgh - what notable differences are there?

One is faster than the other. London is a very inspirational and hard working environment. It exudes its own energy. Edinburgh is beautiful and easy to live in as it is smaller; life is at a slower pace.


Where is your favourite place to escape to in Scotland?

Elie and the North West Coast. I have a house on the beach - a getaway from it all for us we go into total de-stress!



Career…


What do you think about cashmere becoming more accessible and even available at supermarkets?

It will continue to appeal to a wider market - question is the availability of raw materials to satisfy demand. More so people will understand the price difference and how it reflects in the quality. You get what you pay for.


Sum up cashmere in five words.

Comfort, warm, soft, delicate and luxurious.


If you could only sell two of your favourite pieces from your collection - what would they be?

Swarovski crystal trim china blue and the roll neck in black. Simply the best!


What is the proudest moment of your career?

Opening the London store in '97 and being awarded the OBE.


What is the one cashmere item that every woman should have in their wardrobe?

Black polo neck.


Guiding…


What do you remember enjoying as a Guide?

I did many of Girlguiding badges basic skills. I got most out of learning to camp - and all the practical issues - having fun being most important. I actually achieved the Queen's Guide Award.


Did Guiding help you in anyway?

It definitely helped my confidence and self-esteem A fabulous Association.


Being a woman…


What is the most important gift a mother can give to her daughter?

Time and interest.



What encouragement would you give to someone who feels they are still struggling at the bottom of the mountain?


Firstly I believed in myself and my ability. Also to try another route or change tactic; this may be severe but necessary!


Lots of women think and wish they could start their own business. What is it that gave you the confidence to go for it and take the risk?

Not confidence, ignorance. I didn't know what was ahead and unprepared!


What do you do to try and stay healthy?

Regular sports: Swim, run, squash, ski, Pilates. Try to eat well.



What's important to her...


If you had to wear one designer label what would you choose?

Sonia Rykiel - good design, fabric and fit.


In what ways do you feel lucky?

In all ways. I couldn't ask for more.


If you had a million pounds to give to a charity - which one would it be?

Anything that promotes preventative measures in health. In this country only concerned with care process - need to invest more in prevention which I'm sure costs less than cure - also not so traumatic!




To find out more about Belinda please see her website

Go to main inspirational women page

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