Coffee With Erica Illingworth
of Molly Brown

Inspired by her daughter, Erica founded Molly Brown in 2006 with the aim of creating a jewellery collection for girls. Their collections are simple but also sophisticated - designed to be loved and worn forever.

Erica lives in Chiswick, West London and has a daughter and two sons.

We had a coffee with Erica to find out what inspired her to set up her own business, dig deep about her shopping habits and discover where she likes to shop online.

What inspired you to create Molly Brown?
It all started when my daughter Georgia was about twelve and I wanted to buy her a piece of jewellery that she could keep forever.

When I was very young my Grandmother gave me a pair of pearl earrings and when I got home my father told me they weren't real - I remember vividly thinking that it didn't matter, she had given them to me and that was what was special. I still wear them today and hope to pass them down to my daughter one day too.

When I was looking for Georgia I found that everything was either really expensive or tacky – there was just a gaping hole in the market for more affordable jewellery for younger girls.

What were you doing career wise before you set up Molly Brown?
Absolutely nothing to do with jewellery!

I worked for an executive search firm in the investment banking sector but it was a thankless industry. After working for myself once I’d had children, I realised that I wanted to do something a bit more creative that allowed me to have flexibility.

What makes your product unique?
Everything from the quality, design, packaging and the fact that you can give a very special gift without spending a fortune.

How do you get a good work/life balance?
I run at least three times a week and I’m a big believer in splurging on holidays! They’re what we work hard for all year round so it’s worth making them special.

What’s your best selling collection?
It used to be the Jelly Beans but recently the Aurora collection has been doing exceptionally well.

How would you characterise your fashion style?
I’m a jeans, jacket and big accessories girl – I love handbags and think they’re definitely worth investing in.

Who is your style icon?
Jackie Onassis. She was so beautiful, stylish and her character was so strong.

Do you follow any style rules?
Not really – I’m not a slave to fashion, I just go with the flow. I suppose if I had one rule it would be to try and always look sophisticated but with a bit of a sexy edge.

Who are your favourite designers?
Temperley, MaxMara and Joseph - classic, beautiful designs.

Where do you shop on the high street?
Jigsaw (great for chic, off duty pieces) and occasionally Topshop.

Heels or flats and where do you buy them?
Definitely heels! The ultimate have to be Miu Miu for their comfort.

What piece in your wardrobe could you not live without?
I’ve just caved in and bought a Burberry Trench which I’ve had my eye on for years.

What are you lusting over this season?
An Amethyst Cocktail Ring from Tiffany’s – I’ve even got the code for it and they’ve taken my finger size just incase someone kind wants to buy it for me...

What’s your signature fragrance?
Bvlgari pour Femme

What are your three must-have make up products?
By Terry Eclat Opulent, Bobbi Brown Smoke Eye Pencil and Chanel Lipstick.

How would you describe the style of your home?
Someone else’s at the moment! We’ve just moved in and it’s taking a while to get it just how I’d like it.

I love classical and contemporary design and my absolute favourite room in the house is the bathroom – it’s got a huge fireplace and an amazing view down the garden so when you lie in the bath you feel like you’re in pure luxury.

Where do you buy your furniture and home accessories?
Heal’s and The Conran Shop.

What did you last put on your credit card?
My daughter has had a bit of a tough time recently and I saw that Links do a ‘Watch Over Me’ charm.

I bought it for her so she knows I’ll always look after her.

And finally, any other favourite online stores?
The Real Flower Company, Astley Clarke and I Want One of Those – I’ve got 2 sons, 4 nephews and 5 godsons so it’s a lifesaver when it comes to Christmas and birthdays.

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