London-based designer Georgia Hardinge launched her label in 2010 and is recognised for her minimal pleating techniques and unique evening wear designs.
Inspired by new technologies and innovation, Georgia incorporates a strong sculptural style and brings a three-dimensional approach to wearable pieces, with sustainability at the heart of her brand.
We speak to Georgia about her travel wishlist, her ideal day at home in East London, and her airplane essentials.
What is the first trip you remember taking?
It’s Bali with my mother and step family when I was 12 years old. I still remember the humidity hitting me as I got off the plane, and arriving at the hotel to mocktails, and lots of beautiful flowers.
What’s been your most memorable trip and why?
Thailand aged 14. When we landed, my mother rushed us straight to the jewellery shops for her meetings. Despite the jet lag and falling asleep, I was so fascinated by the stores. I remember admiring the sheer beauty of the stones found locally, and helping my mother design some unique pieces of jewellery. It’s a memory I’ve always cherished.
Where or what is your escape?
My time to escape is after my son goes to sleep. I switch off, light some aromatherapy candles, and run a hot bath.
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What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
A packing list: it’s so key in the lead-up to travelling, especially when you are going away with your child. I’ve really learnt my lesson from forgetting important essentials then wasting time and money replacing them whilst away.
If I could go anywhere tomorrow I’d go to:
India – I’d love to visit but I think the long-haul flight would be difficult with my baby!
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How would you spend an ideal afternoon in your home city?
I live in East London. An ideal afternoon here would be going for lunch with friends and our children in a sunny pub garden, taking a walk afterwards with my dog, or perhaps heading to an Art Gallery with my husband and son.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
Staying in a 5 star resort, where I can relax with no cooking or chores, but also somewhere that has options for me to explore – a place with different activities and landmarks to see.
Where do you get your holiday inspiration?
Primarily through word of mouth from my friends. After this, I always do my own research, looking at the best places to stay based on online reviews and recommendations.
If you could sit next to anyone on a flight – dead or alive – who would it be?
Bob Marley. My mother met him on the plane once and he inspired her so much – I would love to have that same experience!
How do you recover from jet lag?
I’m not good with jet lag. The only way for me to get through it is to stay awake until it’s night time in the place I’m visiting. Water and staying hydrated on the plane journey are also incredibly important.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
Find a restaurant and enjoy some food!
Favourite hotel?
It’s important to me that I find a place I feel at home in, so I tend to prefer using Airbnb when I go away. This way I can have an entire place to myself, and have spare rooms for my family and friends.
Favourite airline?
Emirates or Singapore Airlines – the food is amazing.
What’s on your travel playlist?
Classical music – I find it helps me to relax.
Where next?
I’m travelling to Lithuania for work, where I’ll be having meetings about our upcoming collections.
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What are your must-have travel essentials?
A good moisturiser to prevent dehydrated skin on the plane, a portable charger, the CALM App, and Apple Air Tag so you don’t lose your luggage. Also, the Georgia Hardinge Sienna dress for evening glamour, and the Opal trench coat for winter city breaks.
FIRST THING THAT COMES TO YOUR MIND…
Hand-luggage must-have?
Suction spinners that stick to the window of a plane – they’re great for keeping little ones entertained!
Packing: roll or fold?
Roll.
Inflight book or inflight film?
Film.
Music or podcasts?
Podcast.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
Long movies.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Bloody Mary.
Bucket list top destination?
India, South Africa, and New Zealand.
Best shopping gem found abroad?
My engagement ring from Sri Lanka.
Beach or City?
Gunicho beach in Portugal – this is where I grew up!
Ultimate holiday treat?
To have a lie in and to read on a beach in peace.
Any Questions or Tips to add?