A MUM who began taking on the fashion world just two years ago is celebrating after her creations went on sale in iconic High Street store Williams and Griffin.
Mary Jardine founded luxury handbag company Jardine of London in 2014 after seeking a “big challenge” as she celebrated her 50th birthday.
And within two years, she has created handbags for stars including actresses Naomi Watts, Emma Watson, Rosamund Pike, Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris.
Her collection now has pride of place on the Willie Gees shelves alongside Mulberry, Aspinal of London and Vivienne Westwood.
The 52-year-old mum-of-two said: “I am incredibly proud of what’s happened.
“I grew up going to Willie Gees and I’ve spent many a happy day in there shopping, probably like many other women.”
The former model agency scout added: “Handbags are my passion and I have always loved fashion so I’ve combined them.
“I was approaching my 50th birthday and I felt like I wanted a big challenge in my life and I had that lightbulb moment and I knew I wanted to create something special.”
Mrs Jardine added: “It was amazing being told the [actresses] wanted Jardine of London bags.
“I packaged them all up myself and the majority of them went to Hollywood addresses, which caused quite a stir in the local post office.”
Her leather bags cost between £450 and £695. There are six bags on sale in the Colchester High Street store, which is set to fully re-open next month after a £30million refurbishment.
Its name will also officially change to Fenwicks.
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